Honoring Excellence in Small Business — Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House

Pictured above: Susan Campbell, Executive Director, Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, celebrates at the 27th annual Excellence Awards Dinner.

One of the eleven winners of the Chamber's 27th annual Excellence Awards Honoring Small Businesses is featured in this issue: Non-Profit Organization of the Year, Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House. The Non-Profit Organization of the Year award is sponsored by Sovereign Bank. Be sure to look for additional winners in upcoming issues.

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House was the first to open as a home away from home for families of critically ill children receiving treatment at local hospitals. PRMH now provides solace and sanctuary for 60 families every night—serving more than 30,000 families on 13,000 nights—and has served as a model program for nearly 300 Houses worldwide.

The international phenomenon began with the dream of pediatric oncologist Audrey Evans, who saw families spend night after night at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia while their children received life-saving medical treatment. She envisioned a simple place where they could stay during such a difficult time.

During the same time, the Philadelphia Eagles were raising funds in honor of player Fred Hill, whose daughter Kim was in treatment for leukemia. The Eagles' General Manager Jimmy Murray met Dr. Evans, supported her idea, and approached McDonald's about committing proceeds from their Shamrock Shake sales to benefit the new House.

From a home-cooked meal and comfortable bed to transportation to the hospital, PRMH continues to provide a supportive environment for families during the most stressful time of their lives. The families are asked to contribute $15 per night, but most are so financially devastated by their child's illness that they cannot afford it.

Last year, PRMH raised 90% of its $2.6 million operating budget, with the remaining contributions coming from Ronald McDonald House Charities representing the owner/operators in the region. PRMH's caring and conscientious staff is supported in their mission by nearly 300 volunteers. They engage students from higher education institutions in leadership opportunities, and collaborate with many corporate partners and non-profits to provide a range of essential family programs.

PRMH also runs the Ronald McDonald Camp in the Poconos for oncology patients and their siblings, and, in 2008, opened a new House near St. Christopher's Hospital for Children.

Incorporated: 1974                Philadelphia, PA. 19104              philarmh.org