Heart Beats May/June 2024

31ST ANNUAL

Volunteer Recognition Dinner

MAY/JUNE 2024

HeartBEATS

After a five-year absence due to the pandemic, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks celebrated the HEART of RMHC and the Tooth Truck, our incredible volunteers, at the 31st Annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 25. The Board of Directors and staff hosted a "Seussical" night filled with fun games, exciting prizes, delicious food and a heartfelt awards ceremony.

The evening recognized outstanding volunteers who went above and beyond in their service:

House at Mercy Kids:

Outstanding Young Volunteer: Sarah Han Outstanding New Volunteer: Sondra Rader

House near Cox South:

Outstanding New Volunteer: Regina Marshall Brenda Podewitz: 5 years of service

Tooth Truck:

Outstanding New Volunteer Award: Joanna Stalzer

Our Annual Awards for Excellence in Volunteerism were presented to: Scott Weitzel: Recipient of the BARBARA L. APPLEBY AWARD

Patch Clay: Recipient of the KEVIN D. WALLACE AWARD

These awards acknowledge the exceptional commitment and dedication volunteers bring to our mission and we are beyond grateful for their compassion and tireless service. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to every one of our amazing volunteers!

Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC Gifts Over $1 Million to Charity

The 22-year run of the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC (GIC has provided over $1 million in funding for the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile of the Ozarks, fondly known as the “Tooth Truck”. The final event of the GIC series was held in 2023 and thanks to recent gifts from the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club and the Greater Springfield Dental Foundation, net proceeds for this annual southwest Missouri all-star high school football game have topped the $1 million mark. Members of the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club, the GIC title sponsor, recently commemorated the milestone by celebrating the many accomplishments of The Tooth Truck and presenting a facsimile check to representatives of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks (RMHC).

title sponsor of the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC. From funding to volunteers to a passion for this important mission, we look forward to future involvement with the Tooth Truck to ensure the success of this critical program for at-risk kids,” said Bill Williams, 2023-2024 President, Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club.

During the tenure of the GIC, the Tooth Truck served 31,434 at-risk children by completing all dental treatment needed for each child, including sealants and hygiene education. More than $22.5 million in dental services were provided.

Heart Beats is published monthly or bi-monthly for volunteers of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks and The Tooth Truck, Inc.

©2024 RMHC

The following trademarks used herein are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates and are used under license: Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald House Charities logo, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, RMHC, Keeping Families Close.

The Tooth Truck name and logo are owned by The Tooth Truck, Inc.

The Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club sprang into action upon learning of the Tooth Truck in 2001, working with RMHC and the SW MO High School Football Coaches Association to create the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC. Delta Dental of Missouri served as the co-presenting sponsor for 14 years, from 2010-2023, and the Greater Springfield Dental Foundation was a Leadership Sponsor during all 22 years of the event. Mediacom and Mercy Sports Medicine were also 22-year sponsors, providing game broadcasts and promotion, and trainers and ambulances, respectively. “It’s been a privilege for our club and members to be involved with the Tooth Truck from inception as the

“The Tooth Truck has been blessed exponentially by the GIC and everyone who made the event possible over the past 22 years. Not only have the sponsors, volunteers, and supporters helped us keep the Tooth Truck on the road, it’s been a privilege to be the beneficiary of this all-star high school football game for southwest Missouri. There’s been memories made by graduated seniors and their families for more than two decades.

We’re truly grateful to all involved in the event,” said Bonnie Keller, President & CEO of RMHC of the Ozarks and The Tooth Truck, Inc. “We look forward to our continued work with all associated sponsors and supporters of the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC.”

Our sincere thanks to the many volunteers who were instrumental in the success of GIC!

Families

City UpdateUtilities

The Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital is undergoing a significant update, but the disruption is temporary for a much-needed improvement. City Utilities, along with their contracted partners ARC Construction LLC, Hamilton & Dad Inc. and Conco Companies, have been working diligently to update the water and gas lines servicing the House.

While the construction may cause temporary inconvenience, reports indicate the project has been running smoothly. All companies involved are lauded for their collaborative efforts. The project is nearing completion, and soon the newly buried lines, freshly poured sidewalks, and flourishing new grass will erase any signs of disruption.

This collaborative effort by City Utilities and the contracted companies ensures the Ronald McDonald House has reliable and up-to-date utilities, allowing them to continue providing a comfortable haven for families of hospitalized children.

Families

Families served program-to-date: 11,786

Families from Missouri: .............................28

Families from other states: ....................10

Nights stayed this month: ....................328

Families

Families served year-to-date: ................209

Families served program-to-date: ....4319

Families from Missouri: .............................38

Families

From The Staff Heart of the House

House Near Cox South

Current Active Volunteers:

Terri Carr

Olivia Cason

1 Year

Tori Tomlin, Mercy House

Danielle Harp, Cox House

6 Years

Terri Carr, Cox House

Jack Osborn, Mercy House

7 Years

Savannah Keller, Mercy House

8 Years

Blake Dowdy, Cox House

13 Years

Sandy Davis, Cox House

16 Years

Randy Slocum, Cox House

22 Years

Ann Griesemer, Mercy House

Heart Beats is published monthly or bi-monthly for volunteers of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks and The Tooth Truck, Inc.

©2024 RMHC

The following trademarks used herein are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates and are used under license: Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald House Charities logo, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, RMHC, Keeping Families Close.

The Tooth Truck name and logo are owned by The Tooth Truck, Inc.

Barry Chole

Sandy Davis

Blake Dowdy

Shantel Doyle

Vanessa Goetz

Amy Grubaugh

Carol Harris

Briana Jenkins

Regina Marshall

Eileen Meinsen

Larry Meinsen

Morgan Mitchell

Don Nance

Donna Patterson

Kailey Plaskett

Brenda Podewitz

Beka Rasor

Becky Reser

Crystal Schneider

Randy Slocum

Grace Stagner

Kim Stagner

House At Mercy Kids

Current Active Volunteers:

Samantha Ball

Sandy Emberton

Tristian Failla

Ann Griesemer

Sarah Han

Chiquita Hendrick

Danica Isbell

Stori Johnson

Zachary McCubbins

Alexandra Ross

Welcome to the House at Mercy Kids, Danica Isbell!

RMHC Staff

President & CEO

Bonnie Keller

Vice President

Debbie Kinser

Tooth Truck

Program Director

Mindy Muñoz

Director of Philanthropy

Ashley French

Ronald McDonald House

Program Director

Justin Wilson

Development Assistant

Kim Booth

Ivy Starks

Gail Sours

Paul Walley

Kellie Wirtz

Abigail Weitzel

Joanna Weitzel

Scott Weitzel

Travis Weitzel

Kathy Rice

Molly Stood

Tori Tomlin

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE

NEAR COX SOUTH

Program Manager

Danielle Harp

Family Care Managers

Jacob Golden

Austin Gormley

Jennifer Grooms

Danielle Henson

Jessica Steward

Makayla Wise

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE AT MERCY KIDS

Program Manager

Justin Wilson

Family Care Managers

Skylar Ball

Danielle Henson

Julie Holt

Savannah Keller

Jack Osborn

Jessica Steward

Makayla Wise

Family Dinner Spotlight

Beta Sigma Phi – Alpha Chapter (Springfield)

Let’s learn a little bit more about Beta Sigma Phi - Alpha Chapter – Springfield Q&A Section

Q: When did your group start providing meals for the families at the Ronald McDonald House?

A: 2004.

Q: How did you get involved with the Meals from the Heart Program?

A: Though a Children's Miracle connection and the RMHC website.

Q: What is your favorite thing about participating in the Meals from the Heart Program?

A: The opportunity to serve families that are experiencing a personal connection to the House as well as the ability to do the meal as a group activity.

Q: Do you have any favorite memories?

A: Hearing heartfelt stories and knowing that we may have had a positive impact. Many in the group have or know someone who has had an ill or injured child.

Q: What would you like to say to other groups who are considering volunteering with the Meals from the Heart program?

A: This is a very rewarding experience, and we hope that other groups can join in.

Dinner Groups!

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE NEAR COX SOUTH

Alpha Delta Pi

Awaken Church

Boys and Girls Club

Church of JCLDS- Chesterfield

Covey Family

Courageous Church- iServe

Crystal Palicki

Danielle Schmidt

Deborah Owens

Fairgrove NHS

Friends of the Blue Silo

Gay Parks

Germmann Family

Guardian Pharmacy

Hamilton Family

Jack Henry

Kasey Giddens

Keep Supply

Madison Bosanko

Maple Lane Deli

McDonalds of Rogersville

McDonalds of South Campbell

McDonalds on Chestnut

Megan Welch

Naomi Phillips

Oak Grove Assemblies of God

On Angels Wings

Parkcrest BC Foundations

Pyatt Dental

Southgate Baptist Church

Team Janet

The Girlfriends Thurman Family

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE AT MERCY KIDS

Amazon

Ashley Family

Bambino’s

Bricktown Brewery

Courageous Church

Downtown Kiwanis

Emmaus House Church

Hesington Family

Hicks Family

J.E Dunn Construction

Jordan Heinz State Farm

Kendall Family

Lefors Family

Little Caesar’s

Marshfield NHS

Marshfield McDonalds

McDonalds of the Ozarks

Mercy 4A

Mercy 7A

Mercy Core Lab

Mercy Labor and Delivery Unit

Mercy Pre-Reg Team

Orchard Crest Baptist Church

Pasta Express – Ed

Pre-PA Society

Rotary Club of Springfield

SBU Nursing

Southgate Baptist Church

Tracie Patton

Willard Bontreager

Union Hill Church of Christ

Birthdays

May 4

Carrie Brown

May 11

Makayla Wise

May 15

Randy Slocum

May 18

Sarah Han

May 22

Bonnie Keller

June 7

Shantel Doyle

June 11

Kasey Giddens

June 21

Zachary McCubbins

OPEN DINNER DATES: June: 25,28,29 July: 1,2,3,5,6,7,14,16,17,19,23,25,26, 27,28,29,30,31

Wilson Family Womens Warriors Group Ziggie’s

OPEN DINNER DATES:

June: 25,27,29,30

July: 3,5,6,7,12,14 21,22,23,25,26,29.30,31

Around the Houses

Welcome Megan, to a new role!

HOUSE

WISH LIST

Food Items

Shelf stable milk

K-Cups

Individual coffee creamer

Individually wrapped snacks

Canned soda

Bottled water

Gift Cards

Gas cards Walmart Amazon Target

Family Items

Beauty gift sets for women

Body wash sets for men

Adult and child activity

books

Travel coffee mugs

Deodorant

Fleece throw blankets

Small gifts for children

Gifts for teens

Miscellaneous

Items

White Queen fitted sheets

White matching bath towels

Bakeware

Cookie sheets

Set of pots and pans

Daily planners

Lip balm

Small bottles of lotion

Crayons

Blank note cards

Notebooks

Board games

Rubik’s cubes and mind

puzzles

Playing cards

Travel-size hand sanitizer

Travel manicure sets

Individual packs of tissues

On-the-go drink mixes

Small stuffed animals

Sweatpants (all sizes)

Boys, Girls, Mens and Womens Underwear (new and unopened) – all sizes

The Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids is delighted to introduce Megan Mashburn as our new Associate Program Manager!

Megan has served as a Family Care Manager at the House near Cox House since August 2022. Before joining RMHC, she was part of the Human Resource department at Great Southern Bank in Springfield. Megan's dedication to RMHC stems from her personal experience. Her journey with her son Owen in the NICU at Cox South in Springfield and Children's Mercy in Kansas City, along with using the RMHC Kansas City facilities, inspired her to join our organization. We are eager to witness the positive influence Megan will bring and are enthusiastic about working together to enhance our already exceptional Ronald McDonald House program.

Dinner Group Recipe

Crockpot Pot Roast

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 lbs. Chuck roast

• 5 yellow potatoes washed and quartered

• 1.5 lbs. of yellow onion quartered

• Half bag of large whole carrots peeled and chopped

• ½ package of celery chopped

• ½ lbs. of bacon cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)

• 2 packets of pot roast seasoning

• 1 ½ cups of water

• 1tsp cayenne

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• Pinch of Rosemary

• Dash of red pepper flakes

• Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Layer the bottom of the crockpot with potatoes, celery, carrots, and half of the onions.

2. Layer bacon pieces.

3. Lay Chuck roast on top of the vegetables.

4. Place remaining onion on the sides of the roast.

5. Mix roast seasoning with the water and pour into the crockpot.

6. Sprinkle seasonings on top of the roast.

7. Set the Crockpot on low and cook for 8 to 10 hours or until roast reaches 145 F and vegetables are soft.

Cox NICU Fair

The Ronald McDonald House near Cox Health recently attended the annual Cox NICU Reunion. The heartwarming event provided a space for NICU graduates and their families to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate their journeys.

"It was truly wonderful to see so many familiar faces and hear their stories of resilience," shared Danielle Harp, Program Manager at the House near Cox. "The afternoon was filled with laughter, joy, and a sense of community that reminds us of the incredible strength of these families."

Over 150 NICU graduates and their families enjoyed an afternoon of visiting, delicious food, engaging games, balloon characters and even Princesses and Superheroes. The event provided a unique opportunity for families to not only reconnect with each other but also with the staff from the Ronald McDonald House who supported them during their challenging times.

HAPPY WHEELS WISH LIST

Small bottles of lotion

Mini hand sanitizers

Activity books (crossword puzzles, Sudoku, word finder)

Small packs of crayons for the activity books

Travel manicure sets

Chapstick

Individual packs of Kleenex

Individually packaged snacks (Goldfish, granola bars, Teddy Grahams, gum, mints, Lifesavers, etc.)

12-ounce water bottles

Mission Moment

The Judy Family

In late February, Shayla was in the shower when she felt her water break at only 28 weeks. Since it was late and she was exhausted, she decided to go to sleep before heading to the hospital the next morning. When she got admitted, the doctors tried to keep her from going into labor for as long as possible, but Genivieve was born shortly after on Leap Day.

Genivieve was Bradley and Shayla’s first premature baby — their other two children were born at or beyond fullterm. Before Genivieve was born, the couple recall several nurses telling them to apply for Ronald McDonald House. Shayla shared that it provided them with a sense of relief after Genivieve was born knowing their basic needs would be taken care of, and it allowed them to fully focus on their daughter. After Shayla was discharged, they spent a few nights at the House near Cox South before checking into the House at Mercy Kids when a room became available.

The House was everything the Judy family needed and more. Without worrying about paying for meals and hotels, they were able to be at nearly every feeding during the day, and many

feedings throughout the night. Shayla said, “The Ronald McDonald House saved me from depression, and it saved me from worrying about all the things a new mother shouldn’t have to worry about.”

To give back to the House and support other families, Shayla and Bradley made it a point to help with chores, like filling the Keurig water and putting playroom toys away. Shayla said, “Being able to just sweep up reminds you that you have a little bit of control in a situation you really can’t control at all. Being able to maintain little pieces of everyday life is also what keeps you sane.”

Before they got to go home, Shayla and Bradley shared that being discharged would be bittersweet because they’d made friends at Mercy and learned a lot. They said, “Everything has been wonderful. It’s people helping people and things are chosen with care—there is a standard here.” After over a month in the NICU, Genivieve was discharged, and the Judy family went home to Branson.

House Volunteer Spotlight

Danica Isbell

The Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids is thrilled to welcome our newest volunteer, Danica! She brings a giant heart for helping others, making her a perfect addition to our team.

When we sat down with Danica, we learned about her dream career of becoming a travel nurse. This path allows her to explore new places while offering care to those in need. Whether it's lending a hand at the House or building impressive Lego creations at home, she brings a positive energy to everything she does. Speaking of home, get this – a furry crew of 2 cats and 1 dog keeps life interesting! We can only imagine the adventures she has with her pawsome pals.

In her downtime, you might find Danica with a good book, possibly dreaming of walking through the streets of Paris (her dream vacation, by the way!). She also enjoys country music, especially Cody Johnson and loves the classic medical drama, Grey's Anatomy.

Fun Fact: Danica has a whopping 7 siblings.

We're so happy to have her join the Ronald McDonald House family!

Mother's Day at Ronald McDonald House

On Mother's Day, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks wanted to show moms staying at the Houses just how much we care. We know that spending Mother's Day in the hospital can be incredibly difficult, filled with worry and uncertainty. That's why we surprised them with a variety of gifts and goodies like pampering bath products, cozy socks and sweet treats. We wanted to create a moment of peace and comfort in the midst of a challenging time. We also wanted mothers in the House to know they are not alone. Our Ronald McDonald Houses are a “home-away-from-home", and we're here to support them in any way we can. We hope this small gesture reminded them they are cherished, and they have a community behind them.

Happy Wheels Volunteers Needed

The Ronald McDonald House near Cox South is looking for two volunteers to carry out our Happy Wheels Program every week. Our Happy Wheels Program brings “special deliveries” of fun activities and basic necessities to the families and children in our partnering units at Cox South Hospital, reaching families who may need our services. If you or someone you know is interested in carrying out this incredible program, please reach out to Danielle Harp at danielle. harp@rmhcozarks.org / 417-875-3501.

Heart of the Truck Tooth Talk

Patch Clay

McKenna Courtney

Emily Dunn

Jennifer Hardy

Kaydance Knifong

Susan Lemmon

Kaylee Ludwig

Brayden Pierce

Clare Scheier

Joanna Stalzer

Birthdays

May 17

McKenna Courtney

June 7

Kassidy Tuttle

June 9

Patch Clay

June 25

Clare Scheier

Jennifer Hardy joined the Tooth Truck volunteer program in March of 2023, committing a weekly volunteer shift to her busy school schedule. As she prepares to graduate this month, she reflects on her time with the Tooth Truck and its influence on her future dental plans.

My Time with the Tooth Truck

The experiences I have had on the Tooth Truck are memories I will cherish throughout my life and will look back on fondly. Volunteering on the Tooth Truck has allowed me to meet so many different members of the community and help make a difference in their lives and smiles. I’ve adored talking to and working with such amazing people on the Truck and I am so inspired by the work that they do. The kids who come onto the Tooth Truck come from diverse backgrounds, and I’ve loved getting to know them all. Getting to walk with these kids to their appointments gives me the opportunity to uplift them and make them feel valued. A lot of them are nervous or unsure beforehand, and I get to speak with them and give them

Jennifer was recently recognized for achieving her 25- and 50-hour awards in 2023.

by Jennifer Hardy

confidence. I’ve loved getting to hear what these kids have to say; one of my favorite moments was when a kid told me the sealant treatments should taste like a McDonald’s cheeseburger!

I am a part of making a difference in their lives, and that is major to me. I have grown a real passion for helping the underserved and have come to this realization through the Tooth Truck. I want to do work like this every day, and once I graduate from dental school, I plan on working in a dental office that serves a similar demographic. Volunteering on the Tooth Truck has doubled my passion for dentistry and has made me feel so secure in my choices for the future. Each hour that I have put into volunteering goes into

Helping each patient pick out a new toothbrush is always a highlight of each volunteer shift.

Tooth Truck Wish List

Continued from page 10

helping those who do not have adequate access to oral healthcare, so they are hours well-spent. I not only feel like I am making a difference, but I can see the difference that the Tooth Truck makes in our community. Continuing this work is something I am excited about doing in the future, and I can’t wait to help spread the Tooth Truck’s mission!

Seeing confidence in a child’s smile is such an inspiration for our volunteers pursuing a dental career.

Action figures

Matchbox cars

Hair accessories (clips, headbands)

Chapstick

Clorox Wipes Handheld games

Children

Jewelry (necklaces, bracelets) DVDs for older children

Outdoor toys (bubbles, sidewalk chalk, Frisbees, sports balls)

Walmart gift cards Beanie Babies

Congratulations Graduates!

This time of year is bittersweet because we have to say goodbye to some of our amazing volunteers as they graduate and begin a new chapter in their lives.

We are so grateful for your dedication to the Tooth Truck mission and wish you the very best as you begin your dental school studies!

A big congratulations to McKenna Courtney Patch Clay

Emily Dunn

Jennifer Hardy

Program to Date Dental Appointments: 69,062

Program to Date Value of Treatment: .....$24.6 million

STAFF

PRESIDENT & CEO

Bonnie Keller

PROGRAM DIRECTORRONALD MCDONALD CARE MOBILE

Mindy Muñoz

HEALTHY SMILES ACADEMY

PROGRAM MANAGER

Cassie Staiger

GENERAL DENTIST

Dr. Sarah Cimino

COMMUNITY DENTISTS

Dr. Ernest Curry

Dr Aaron Dannegger

Dr. Caryl Earp

DENTAL ASSISTANTS

Megan Sanders

Kassidy Tuttle

PART-TIME DENTAL

ASSISTANT

Breanna Mareschal

OFFICE COORDINATOR

Joscelyn Flores

Chip in for the Ronald McDonald Houses!

Help Us Raise Additional Dollars for Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald Houses! Buy Charities Sweepstakes Tickets! $25 Per Ticket / Only 10,000 Available

TICKET INCLUDES:

Grounds Pass to all 4 tournament days, July 1

1 in 20 chance to win a $25 daily price, July 18–2

1 in 10,000 chance to win a:

2024 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 SR5 Double Cab Pickup Truck or $10,000 Cash

Drawing on July 21, 2024 You, Your Spouse or an Authorized Representative Must Be Present to Win the Grand Prizes after tournament play

By purchasing your tickets through Ronald McDonald House Charities® of the Ozarks, 100% of the proceeds benefit our organization.

2024 Sweepstakes Tickets will be mailed to the address listed below

Name (and/or Spouse):

Address:

Authorized Representative: BYRON SHIVE

949 E. Primrose Street

Springfield, Missouri 65807-5257

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

PRICE CUTTER CHARITY CHAMPIONSHIP

Mark your calendars for the 35th annual Korn Ferry Tour’s Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper (PCCC), July 18-21 at Highland Springs Country Club. Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks has been a beneficiary since the inception of this event in 1990, providing nearly $1.5 million in support to our organization alone.

More than half of the annual funding we receive through the PCCC is from TLC Properties Charities Sweepstakes Tickets — and tickets are on sale now! One hundred percent of your purchase will benefit the children and families of our two Ronald McDonald Houses if you designate RMHC as your preferred charity.

Both programs feature great prizes, so be sure to check out the enclosed flyer for more details! Each ticket also serves as a grounds season pass for the tournament.

You can purchase tickets online at RMHCozarks.org, by contacting Kim Booth at 417-875-3505 or by mailing a check with the bottom portion of the enclosed flyer to RMHC at 949 E Primrose, Springfield MO 65807.