By Ron Stafford

Julie Haber of Stevensville contacted The Update recently and wanted to share her story about two wonderful volunteers – her daughters. Julie’s daughters, Holly age 10 and Lauren age 7, who attend Matapeake Elementary School, started volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) in Baltimore about a year ago. The Haber family started off occasionally providing dinner for the families staying at RMH, but Holly and Lauren wanted to get more directly involved. Since November the sisters have hosted an activity hour each month. They come up with ideas for activities and help the children complete the activities. Holly and Lauren also take the time to talk and visit with the kids, many of whom are far from home and friends. The girls really enjoy making new friends, such as several girls from Kuwait, and they look forward to seeing each other on the monthly visits. The kids at RMH also enjoy the visits with Holly and Lauren since they are all so close in age.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore provides a home away from home for seriously ill children and their families, and helps to fund programs in the local area that directly improve the well being of children. Volunteers provide breakfast and dinner daily as well as an activity hour each evening. RMH is located at 636 W. Lexington St. in Baltimore. They can be reached at 410-528-1010. For more information volunteering opportunities, contact Volunteer and Community Events Manager Amber Rose by email at amber@rmhbaltimore.com.