22 Jul Volunteer Spotlight: Teresa Joel

Teresa Joel has been a volunteer at our Ronald McDonald House near Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite since 2014.  She heard about volunteer opportunities with us through a close who was also a volunteer at out House. Her friend shared inspiring stories with her about the families that call our House their “home-away-from-home” and it warmed her heart! After meeting the wonderful families and the staff for herself, she said she knew it was the place where she felt she could make an impact and she’s been one of our most valued volunteers ever since!

“As a mother, I can relate to the worry and stress when your child is ill. My goal in volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House is to try to bring some semblance of normalcy to the families’ daily lives as they live through the worry and stress of an ill child. I volunteer every Wednesday afternoon in Guest Services at the House near Scottish Rite. My role consists of doing a variety of items including answering the phones, checking in guests and meal volunteers, replenishing pantry and storage rooms, and other house duties. I’ve even become somewhat of the resident chalkboard artist, creating funny artwork on the kitchen chalkboard. It’s my small way of creating some cheer. My most important duty? Giving and receiving hugs!

My favorite time of the day is when the afternoon shuttle from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta drops off the children and I get to see the families reunite after a long day of rehab or treatment. At that time of day, everyone congregates in the open, airy dining area to catch up with each other on their child’s progress. It is amazing how the little steps and accomplishments light up faces with brilliant smiles! I’ve made some very special friends here, and although I’m sad to see families leave when they go home, it means they are well on their way to recovery and I’m happy for that.”

We’re grateful for volunteers like Teresa who share their time & hearts with us!