Engaging the Community: The Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte By Caroline Brewer
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his year the sophomore class of the Levine Scholars Program has partnered with the newly opened Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte (RMH). The relationship between the House and the scholars is unique because it is the first long-term partnership between any Ronald McDonald House Teen Volunteer Board and a group of college student leaders. Twice a month, students from the sophomore class visit the House. They visit once to meet with the members of the teen volunteers and the second time to serve a meal to the families staying there.
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he Teen Volunteer Board at Ronald McDonald House is a group of high school juniors and seniors that is interested in giving back to the community. The students of the Levine Scholars Program mentor the Teen Board by helping them organize their meetings, build on their ideas, and design successful volunteer efforts. So far, we have met with the Teen Board as a whole to help them brainstorm ideas that benefit the House. Within this relationship, we aim to act as a source of constant support for the Teen Board while also helping them stay on track with their goals for the House. We also talk to them about applying to college and what college life at UNC Charlotte is like.
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ealtime is one of the favorite times of the day at the Ronald McDonald House, especially when there is a group fixing meals for the families. Once a month, at least six members of the sophomore class plan, shop for, and prepare a meal for those families staying at RMH. The number of people being fed during these meals ranges from 25 to 50. We try to stick with the requests of families staying at RMH, often ones of comfort food. We have made baked spaghetti with garlic bread and fried chicken with mashed potatoes and green beans for the past two meals, and the families loved it!
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he partnership between the Levine Scholars Program and the Ronald McDonald House has been mutually beneficial, providing us with an incredible opportunity to get involved with an amazing organization and cause. It has also allowed us to meet and work with some great high school students. We look forward to many more fun times with the wonderful people of Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte! Page 2