Last week, I signed 333 cards, thanking friends who’ve made gifts for the past three, five, or 10 consecutive years. If we had included those who’ve contributed exactly four, six, seven, eight, nine, and 11 or more years, the total would have easily surpassed 1,000. Similar acknowledgments will soon be mailed to hundreds of participants in last week’s golf tournament and social—many of whom were involved in that annual event long before I arrived 14 years ago.
Now that’s what I call faithful support!
I met one of the 10-year donors for coffee on Wednesday. We both marveled at the fact that our introduction (ironically, at the same location) occurred more than a decade ago!
While increasingly mindful of time’s swift passage, I’m even more amazed at how loyal RMHC’s friends remain. While our shared cause is certainly inspiring, the enduring generosity of so many steadfast supporters is equally remarkable.
Nearly 70 years ago, Anne Frank shared an outlook on life that was especially compelling in light of her youth and circumstances. “In spite of everything,” she wrote in her now-famous diary, “I still believe that people are really good at heart.” Here at the Ronald McDonald Houses, I’m fortunate to experience that profound truth on a daily basis.
Donors will occasionally say things like, “RMHC gets the prize for being the most grateful organization.” While such an honor would be an enviable, it’s easy to be grateful when you have such faithful friends. I just can’t imagine ever being able to say thank you enough!
Tom Soma, Executive Director