How did you first learn about Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon and why did you choose to work here?

I was lucky to take a tour of RMH BC when they first opened their 73-bedroom facility in 2014. Working at BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, I was familiar with the tens of thousands of families who received specialized care each year at BC Children’s Hospital, where many cases start with a sudden diagnosis. I also knew that many of these families travel far from their homes for medical care only available in Vancouver. On the tour, I experienced firsthand the level of care and support RMH BC provides to ensure that each family member is taken care of, physically and emotionally.

What were your first impressions of RMH BC?

I could tell that the House was built with great thought and consideration for everyone who needed it. The layout provides ample quiet spaces for private and difficult conversations, but at the same time it brings together families from all corners of the province in the many play areas where you can always see kids running around!

From the first moment that I walked through the doors I could also feel that I was welcome. The one thing that grabbed my attention was the baked goods that were placed thoughtfully at the front counter. I was overjoyed to see that baking (and sharing baked goods) was a form of relaxation and therapy used at the House. As a person who enjoys baking on my spare time, I could really appreciate the love shared between kids, parents, friends and volunteers who bake.

What does a typical week look like for you in your role?

Simply put, no day is the same. My role as a Director of Corporate Partnerships & Sponsorship involves working closely with organizations and companies to build meaningful relationships and co-create solutions that benefit the business and society at large.

I strongly believe that companies and their employees can be one of the greatest forces for social impact because they have the resources to influence change on a large scale, amplifying the effect of their generosity. The reach and impact of large companies exceeds what RMH BC could ever attain on our own. As a charity, RMH BC relies heavily on corporate giving as a crucial source of funding.

I find that companies are thrilled to contribute to impactful initiatives like our House Hero – a month-long, exclusive sponsorship including engagement opportunities like preparing meals for our families or organizing epic Easter egg hunts. Although we have had to adapt and adjust in 2020, there are still so many ways to make a difference at the House. There is no limit to creativity, and it is encouraged!

Employee giving is another great way that companies can deepen their connection with a cause they believe in. Donating the equivalent of one coffee every month may not seem like much, it really adds up if 50% of staff is giving. Many companies offer to match employee charitable donations, which would double or triple your impact!

What is one memory you would like to share from your time working at RMH BC?

There are so many moments that involve our families! I work where families also live, so it’s a regular occurrence for curious kids to stop into our meetings. We even had a child stop into our boardroom, wondering what we were doing and offering to take meeting minutes for us!

If you could give one gift to the families at the House, what would you give them?

Attention.

This year has challenged our thinking around giving the gift of quality time. Even giving 60 seconds of dedicated time to someone or something can make all the difference, and it is something we all have the capacity to do. I have seen the impact of this multiple times at the House, where one parent, who has their own set of worries, will stop another parent just to check in to see if they are okay.

What do you do when you’re not at work?

I can be found at a local ice rink playing hockey, watching The Office reruns for the 100th time or trying a recipe that I saw on Pinterest.

What is your favourite place in BC or the Yukon and why is it your favourite?

The main thing I’ve learned about myself after travelling across 25+ countries is that I need to be near a lake or ocean. Having been BC born and raised, my favourite spots include Tofino, the Sunshine Coast and Port Moody.

Tell us something quirky/unique about yourself!

I pride myself in being a lifelong learner. I enjoy learning new things through my professional career and personal life, whether it’s trying cuisine I’ve never had before, searching the DIY version of a home improvement project out of curiosity or attempting to recreate a meal from my favourite restaurants. I’ve learned a lot along the way including what I would only do once.