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February 7, 2012

February 1, 2012

Tune in to see the RMHC Super Bowl Commercial

When it comes to strength in numbers, it’s hard to beat 100 million – viewers that is. McDonald’s demonstrates their commitment to RMHC daily, but February 5th will be extra special.  For the fourth time, McDonald’s USA, OPNAD, Jan Fields, Neil Golden, Peter Sterling and Marlena Peleo-Lazar have chosen to air a prime-time spot featuring Ronald McDonald House Charities. The spot, featuring Anastacio, a 6 year-old leukemia survivor, will air between 6 to 6:20 EST, right before the Super Bowl.

As a testament to the McDonald’s brand message, the spot brings to life what strength in numbers really means to RMHC families. Anastacio’s two brothers, sister, mom, dad and grandfather, as well as RMHC staff and volunteers were close by to support him while he endured intense chemotherapy. And on one especially hard day, he found joy in spending time with Ronald McDonald himself at the House in Oak Lawn, IL.  Through joyful moments and moments of pain, it’s that support and care which makes RMHC so special to families worldwide.

Every day, RMHC offers compassion, hope and caring to more than 12,500 families like Anastacio’s at our Ronald McDonald Houses, Ronald McDonald Family Rooms and Ronald McDonald Care Mobiles.  Telling their stories is the best way to get people involved.  And, thanks to McDonald’s we’ll be telling this story to an incredible 100+ million viewers!

Join us by tuning into the Super Bowl between 6:00 pm – 6:20 pm!

 

January 12, 2012

News4′s Angie Goff caught up with our Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, a mobile clinic that services DC Wards 5 through 8.

View more videos at: http://nbcwashington.com.

January 5, 2012

 Washington D.C. Ronald McDonald House® (RMH) Awarded LEED® Gold Certification

Only Fourth RMH in the World to receive LEED Certification.  

 Going Green for our Families and the Community for Generations to come!

January 2012 – Our new Washington D.C. Ronald McDonald House® received LEED Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).  It is the fourth Ronald McDonald House in the world built to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards to be awarded LEED certification.  LEED for Homes is a green home certification program that rewards homes that are designed and built to be energy- and resource-efficient and more healthy and durable for the occupants.  These standards are particularly important for our families who stay at our House where they receive temporary housing and emotional support during one of the darkest times in their lives.

 The new D.C. Ronald McDonald House at 3727 14th Street, NE, focuses heavily on reducing energy use and providing an eco-friendly environment for our families.  The 22,500 square foot House features 26 guest rooms, nearly doubling the accommodations for families of children being treated at nearby hospitals, such as the Children’sNationalMedicalCenter andGeorgetownUniversityHospital.  Additionally, the new House includes 4 special suites for children with compromised immune systems.  After long, exhausting days at the hospital, our families can come back to a place to reflect and relax in this healthy house.

“Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington DC is elated to have achieved LEED Gold certification for our new DC Ronald McDonald House”, said Claudia Lewis, Director of Community Relations for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington DC.  “When building our new House, our charity was committed to providing a greener “safe haven” for our families as well as being good stewards of our environment.  We are grateful to Balfour Beatty Construction and to all those who helped build a beautiful “green” House for our families to come home to and for helping us make our LEED Gold status a reality.”

“Eco-friendly, sustainable design was key to planning and construction of the House from the very beginning.” according to Dorinda Burroughs, Chair of RMHC’s Board of Directors and Co-Chair of the Capital Campaign to build the new House.  “For an organization that relies on charitable contributions for its livelihood, that means we can spend more money on our programs that help us fight for children’s health.  In fact, we have already seen a big decrease in our utilities.”

Selected sustainable features of the new Ronald McDonald House include:

Energy efficient systems and equipment that significantly reduce the monthly operating costs.

  • Very high efficiency plumbing fixtures and fittings, which contribute to savings in water, energy and money.
  • Low volatile organic compound (VOC) paint, which aids in maintaining good indoor air quality by reducing toxins and contaminants.
  • Green label carpet, which meets stringent criteria for low chemical emissions.
  • High efficiency HVAC equipment that uses environmentally safe refrigerants, and also saves energy and costs by delivering more heating and cooling per unit of energy input into the system.
  • A large bio-retention pond that collects and naturally filters rainwater from the roof and parking lot, reducing the demand on municipal infrastructure for conveying and treating storm water.
  • Non-invasive, drought tolerant planting which eliminates the need for an irrigation system.
  • Use of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood, which is sustainably sourced.
  • Use of locally produced and recycled products.

 

Transitioning from a Ronald McDonald House built in 1912 to the new House allowed Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington, D.C. to utilize eco-friendly and sustainable architecture best practices.  Building “Green” not only better serves our families, but the greener space also reduces operational costs, allowing RMHC to allocate more funds directly to our programs that help improve children’s health and well-being. Building “Green” is great for the community for generations to come.  Hopefully, our new Ronald McDonald House will serve as a model for greener living for the entire community.  Coming home to a greener space certainly benefits our families, but we can all benefit from reducing our environmental footprint and creating sustainable communities around the world.


10/15/2011

October 14, 2011

DC Brau Joins Pop Tab Collection Effort Benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington, D.C. 

Aluminum can tabs to be collected at the brewery starting on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011 during regularly scheduled tour and tasting hours.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - DC Brau today announced their participation in a fundraiser to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. (RMHC). Starting on Oct. 15, 2011, during regularly scheduled tour and tasting hours, visitors to the brewery can drop off aluminum beer and soda can tabs to be delivered to RMHC for recycling. Proceeds from the can tab recycling benefit RMHC.

“Since the beginning, DC Brau has embraced a variety of ‘green’ initiatives,” says DC Brau CEO, Brandon Skall, “From using locally grown ingredients to the decision to produce our beer in recyclable cans – this is just another way we can encourage recycling while also giving back to the community.”

DC Brau’s year-round brews are packaged in 100% recyclable aluminum cans. Aluminum cans are 26% of the global beverage container market. They are lightweight, durable, 100% recyclable indefinitely and provide a very effective barrier against light and oxygen, giving beverages a long shelf life. DC Brau encourages patrons to bring their can tabs to weekend tasting and tours, and lend their support to the Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C.

Since 1980, the Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. has been a Home-away-from-Home for 18,000 families of seriously ill children being treated at DC area hospitals for cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. In 2009, underserved kids in D.C. Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8 received free health care services from the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile. Each year Ronald McDonald House Charities® awards a small number of scholarships to local high school seniors to be used for their freshmen year of college, and also awards grants to non-profit organizations that directly impact the health and well-being of children in the Greater Washington, D.C. area. 

Click here for more information on Ronald McDonald House Charities® and its Pop Tab Collection Program or click here for more information on Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington D.C.

DC Brau Brewing Company, founded in 2009, is located in North East Washington, D.C. Co-founders Brandon Skall and Jeff Hancock are DC locals with a passion for brewing, complimented by years of experience in beverage distribution. DC Brau’s signature brews include, Public Ale (Pale Ale), Corruption Ale (IPA), and The Citizen (Belgian style Ale), with seasonal and special brews to follow. For more information on DC Brau, visit http://www.dcbrau.com.Caroline Phillips
Media Relations
(301) 379-0747
caroline@dcbrau.com 
10/17/2011

Catalogue for Philanthropy Selects Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. to Join Network of Worthy Non-Profits and Caring Individuals

Decision to Add Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. to 2011–12 Catalogue Based on In-Depth Review

WASHINGTON, D.C.—This year’s Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington (www.catalogueforphilanthropy-dc.org) will contain a new, worthy non-profit organization— Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C., www.rmhc.greaterdc.org whose mission is to create and support programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.

After a rigorous review process. CFP selected Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. to join its network, which brings together donors, volunteers, employers, and worthy local non-profits to strengthen our communities.

Since its inaugural edition nine years ago, the Catalogue has raised more than $15 million from caring individuals for featured non-profits with annual budgets of $3 million or less. Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. is one of 70 non-profits making an appearance in this year’s Catalogue, the second time they have had this honor.

“At the Catalogue, we like to say that each non-profit we include is ‘one of the best,’ and that applies to Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. We make this statement based on a rigorous financial evaluation for effectiveness and transparency, at least one site visit, and input from more than 100 independent community reviewers. Donors know they can trust the Catalogue to help them make smart decisions about local non-profits where their contributions can really make a difference,” says Barbara Harman, CFP president and editor.

The Catalogue’s web site at www.catalogueforphilanthropy-dc.org allows donors to search by field, view all nonprofits in a list, or search using key words. The How to Give section includes a Gift Registry, Gift Cards, a section Especially for Kids, and more.  Visit Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C.’s page at http://bit.ly/oiKvrp.

“Throughout the years ahead, even the most worthwhile nonprofits will be starved for resources,” says Harman, “and will be left to scramble for limited public and private funds — particularly the small, local nonprofits that are so essential to the health of our communities. That’s why this year’s featured Catalogue charities and our entire network of over 300 vetted nonprofits, is so important.”

This year’s Catalogue is dedicated to the memory of businessman and philanthropist Sidney Harman, who was a founder and enthusiastic supporter of the Catalogue.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

About Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C.

Claudia Lewis

703-698-7080

claudiarmhc@vacoxmail.com

 

9/28/2011

Cards That Show You Care

Did you know that you can order greeting cards online through RMHC® of Greater Washington D.C.’s new greeting card program? Proceeds from your purchase support our programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.You have the option to purchase a package of 8 greeting cards (blank inside) for only $12, or 20 premium cards personalized with your own message, photo, or logo inside for $30.This is a unique opportunity for all individuals and businesses to showcase their support and spread the word about Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, D.C. while sending greetings to friends, family, clients, and colleagues. Participate in RMHC® of Greater Washington, D.C.’s greeting card program and help us support thousands of families throughout the Washington, D.C. area.For more information about this program and to order your cards today, visit www.rmhcdccards.com.
 
6/28/2011

All Stars Rock the House this Summer!

July 21st Rock the House Tour D.C. Celebrates 50 Years of Rock & Roll and benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington, D.C.

 

Help Change a Child’s Life at a rockin’ summer concert. Bring your friends and family – and your lawn chair – to the FREE School of Rock All Stars Rock the House Tour at Reston Town Center.  School of Rock and RMHC are teaming up to bring an inspiring summer concert series to cities nationwide.  Donations at the Greater D.C. area concert tour will be gratefully accepted, with a suggested donation of $10.  Enjoy face painting for kids, free parking, and a free concert under the stars all donations help make it possible us provide a home-away-from-home for the families of seriously ill children.  Have questions?  Contact Rachel at RachelRMHC@vacoxmail.com or at (703) 698-7080.

 
4/11/2011

Brand New Honda Odyssey donated!

On April 7th, RMHC of Greater D.C. took delivery of the new minivan from Bill Page Honda in Falls Church thanks to the NHL’s “Biggest Assist Happens Off the Ice” Program

RMHC of Greater D.C. was selected to win a 2011 Honda Odyseey through the 2011 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic game in which the Washington Capitals defeated the Pittsburg Penguins.  Lisa Smith, Executive Director of RMHC of Greater D.C. said, “This new minivan is a much needed donation since our existing van is ready to retire. Transportation is crtical to our families and the Odyssey will assure that they can be at the hospital with their children during a critical time in their lives.”

Summer weddings are magical!  RMHC of Greater D.C. has noticed a new trend: many couples are more interested in giving than receiving.  They want to commemorate their wedding day by making charity a part of their nuptials.  To help the bride and groom mark the beginning of their new life together by making a difference in their community, we launched our “Saying ‘I Do’ for RMHC” program.  We have several ways for you to participate – we’ll even write the Thank You notes!  If you’re interested in making charity a part of you “I do,” contact Ashley at AshleyRMHC@vacoxmail.com or (703) 698-7080.

12/17/2010

A New D.C. Ronald McDonald House!

Taking the LEED – Building Green – Going for the Gold!

Why did we build a new House? The most compelling reason to build a new House is that the physical constraints of the original House precluded us from providing the standards of care to our families we wish to provide. Through the generosity of the greater metropolitan community, a new Ronald McDonald House® has been built in Washington, D.C. – helping families in crisis for years to come.

The new Ronald McDonald House has 26 bedrooms, almost double the current capacity. It will provide special isolation suites for children who have received bone marrow, liver or kidney transplants, protecting them from exposure to infections.

Transitioning from a Ronald McDonald House built in 1912 to a new House allows Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington, D.C. to utilize sustainable architecture best practices. Building “Green” to better serve our families and the community for generations to come, RMHC has targeted LEED for Homes, Gold Certification. Our new Ronald McDonald House will be only the 3rd LEED certified Ronald McDonald House in the world. After long, exhausting days at the hospital, our families will find a place to reflect and relax in this healthy house. Also, “Green” homes use less energy, water and natural resources, create less waste, and are more durable and comfortable for occupants.

Capital Campaign Committee Co-Chairs

Dorinda and Benton Burroughs

Bricks & Mortar

Building a new House allowed special partnerships to develop within the metropolitan building community. We made it our goal to raise goods and services necessary to build a new Ronald McDonald House in the nation’s capital. We asked builders, developers, suppliers, subcontractors, vendors, landscapers and building associates help us by donating bricks, sticks, services, furniture and furnishings. Our Hard Hat and Soft Heart crew was exceptional.

Bricks & Mortar Chairs:

Steve Braisch, Greenebaum & Rose Associates (Chair)
Steve Smithgall, Balfour Beatty Construction (Co-Chair)

Bricks & Mortar Donors Include:

Balfour Beatty Construction
Davis Carter Scott Architects
Greenebaum & Rose Associates
Joseph R. Loring & Associates, Inc.
KCE Structural Engineers
Macris Hendricks & Glascock Engineers