18 Apr Meet Sister and Brother volunteering duo, Dariell Simmons and Dionte Morgan

We are celebrating National Volunteer Appreciation Week and saluting all our volunteers who make a difference every day for our families.

Meet our sister and brother duo who are volunteers at our Ronald McDonald House near Egleston, Dariell Simmons and Dionte Morgan. Dariell, founder and CEO of A Princess In Me Foundation Inc., has been volunteering for 3 years, while her brother Dionte, founder and CEO of A King In Me Foundation Inc., has been involved for a year.

The siblings were inspired to start helping our families as members of Donate Love Foundation Inc. 14 years ago. “One of our service projects included creating cards for the families,” Dariell says. “Not only was it enjoyable and impactful, but it was rewarding to know that our words of encouragement would be a light of hope to a child, a father, a mom, or a grandparent. To this day, we are so thankful to have maintained a relationship with RMHC.”

Dionte says, “Our hearts are overwhelmed with joy each time we volunteer because we know that we are providing comfort and creating smiles.” Their commitment to the House stems from hearts of compassion and love, he says.

“It is very difficult to narrow it down to just one favorite memory. Every time we volunteer, a wonderful memory is created because each time we walk away with different connections and a greater sense of love and gratitude.”
Regardless of the volunteer activity, love unites all the brother and sister do for our families. “Regardless of how we choose to contribute to Atlanta RMHC, we are delighted and grateful to give our time.”

Cooking for our families remains a favorite volunteer activity because “families would come in speaking and introducing themselves and expressing their gratitude,” Dariell says. “Preparing brunch sparked many conversations, and we developed many meaningful relationships.”

Game nights resonate with Dionte too. “From playing cards or coloring, or creating competitive teams for charades, riddles, or bingo, game nights were fun and it brought togetherness for us, the children and parents.”

Life happens differently for each of us, Dariell says, but seeing the strength the families display is incredible. “Even though their experiences and situations may be challenging, they continue to smile and keep the faith. Their disposition encourages us to be resilient and to not give up,” she says.

“The greatest take away that will forever be engraved in our hearts and minds is the RMHC tagline – Togetherness is a Gift,” says Dionte. “Our foundations have truly been inspired to spread love throughout our community and Atlanta RMHC because we realize it is better to give than receive. Thank you RMHC for being our gift!”