Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona (RMHCCNAZ) is delighted to announce the launch of Brunch Buddies, a new volunteer initiative. This program is an extension of the successful Dinnertime Heroes program, which provides dinner to guest families from Sunday to Friday at all three Valley Houses. Now, Brunch Buddies will invite volunteers to prepare Saturday morning brunches at the Cambridge, Roanoke, and Dobson Houses.

Volunteers have always been crucial to RMHC’s efforts. Jen Donnelly, RMHCCNAZ Volunteer Manager and the program’s designer, explains, “Volunteers are an essential part of the work that we do at RMHC, especially for our Dinnertime Heroes and Brunch Buddies programs. By bringing in volunteers from Valley business, spiritual, and community organizations, RMHC can provide a warm, homemade meal for our guest families every single day of the week.” Volunteers are encouraged to prepare their favorite or specialty breakfast dish, whether it be pancakes, egg sandwiches, or even a festive cereal bar, to bring comfort to guest families.

Kerry Shulman, RMHCCNAZ CEO, adds, “Our Dinnertime Heroes program has been incredibly well received by both our volunteers and guest families. Brunch Buddies is a natural progression of both Dinnertime Heroes and our overarching mission to provide guest families with a comfortable place to stay, and social and emotional support. For many, weekend mornings are a time to gather with family for a meal and connection. Brunch Buddies is our way of providing that experience here at RMHC.”

RMHCCNAZ has been providing a “home-away-from-home” for children and their families traveling to the Valley for treatment for serious, often life-threatening illnesses and injuries. The organization operates three “Houses” in the Valley: Roanoke House in Phoenix; Cambridge House on the campus of Phoenix Children’s Hospital; and Dobson House in Mesa, located on the campus of Banner Children’s at Desert. These locations accommodate up to 72 families a night, who stay for days, weeks, sometimes months at a time, at no charge, while their children receive care at local medical facilities.

For more information about the Brunch Buddies program or to volunteer, visit rmhccnaz.org/meals.