Fostering Connections for Imperial Valley Families
Extraordinary volunteers Jan Hester and Jo Ann Weissman are developing partnerships in the Imperial Valley to help bridge the distance between the Ronald McDonald House and the Valley. Both have been instrumental in coordinating volunteers and sponsors for Red Shoe Day in the Imperial Valley.
Jan Hester is especially grateful for the support she received at the Ronald McDonald House during the five weeks of her grandson Kyle’s hospitalization. She stayed at the House and took care of Kyle’s older brother so that their parents could focus on Kyle.
“It really is a home away from home,” Jan says, and having everything they needed—laundry, meals, play yard—brought a sense of peace. Her experience motivated her to bring Red Shoe Day to the Imperial Valley in 2011, and to help connect families who’ve used the Ronald McDonald House to each other.
“I have seen the magic that happens when families in similar situations reach out to each other. I want to facilitate that.” — Jan Hester
Now in her eighth decade of life in the Imperial Valley, Jo Ann Weissman appreciates the many blessings that come from living in a small community. People really care about their neighbors, she says, and they are willing to lend a hand. Jo Ann has done so on many occasions for the Ronald McDonald House since first volunteering with Jan five years ago. When she mentions that she is a volunteer for the Ronald McDonald House, she receives “nothing but smiles” wherever she goes.
Giving as a volunteer and a donor
In addition to volunteering, Jo Ann has established planned giving to benefit future families who come to the Ronald McDonald House. Being a donor and a volunteer gives her a sense of comfort knowing that she is caring for those who need help.
Jo Ann feels fortunate that no one in her family has ever needed special care or the services of the Ronald McDonald House. Her husband Harry passed away last year. Harry was always very supportive of her involvement with the Ronald McDonald House and would say that she was “on duty” when volunteering. “It’s been a real kick, and I’m not through yet!”
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