Earlier this month, I joined 105 Executive Directors from the U.S. and Canada for our annual gathering in Tucson. It’s always helpful to compare notes, commiserate, and catch up with colleagues who’ve become friends over the years. And it’s refreshing to hear the heartwarming stories that make our jobs so rewarding.
This year, I was especially impressed by the increasing sophistication of our organizations—particularly Chapters like ours with larger Houses and multiple programs or facilities. Despite the economic pressures, changes in health care, and challenging family dynamics that effect operations, we’re all persevering with confidence and hope.
What’s most encouraging is the reminder that what we do here is also occurring at more than 300 Ronald McDonald Houses around the world! Every day, up to 8,000 families are being cared for by thousands of staff members and volunteers, and tens of thousands of donors.
Everywhere there are sick children far from home. Everywhere there are worried families who need a place to stay while their children receive medical treatment. And nearly everywhere (in more than 50 countries), Ronald McDonald Houses are helping. That’s amazing!
I’m reminded of Mother Teresa’s observation: “We can do no great things—only small things with great love.”
There’s great love here. In the end, that’s no small thing…
Tom Soma, Executive Director