LEADERSHIP REFLECTIONS

The month of November reminds us to take a breath, look back with gratitude, and appreciate the moments and people who make a difference.

A few weeks ago, our community came together for the 11th Annual A Few Good Men & Women Gala, and what a remarkable evening it was. Our sold-out ballroom was a testament to how deeply this community believes in keeping families close when they need it most.

One of the most powerful moments of the evening was hearing from the Aulet-Leon family, who courageously shared their journey with their son, Jacko Jr., as he faced a brain tumor at nine months old. Their 40 nights at the House were more than a place to stay, they were nights filled with strength, warmth, and the gift of never having to leave their child’s side. Their story touched every heart in the room and reminded us why we do what we do.

As we enter this season of gratitude, I want to extend my sincerest thanks:

• To the families who trust us during some of their hardest days.
• To our volunteers who show up with open hearts, warm meals, and smiles.
• To our Board of Trustees for your leadership, guidance, and unwavering commitment to our mission.
• To our donors, partners, and community advocates, you are the reason our House remains a beacon of hope 365 days a year.

Whether you supported the gala, cooked a meal, donated a toy, shared a kind word, or simply believe in what we do, thank you. You help make the House a home.

BUILDING COMFORT FROM THE TOP DOWN

The House is proud to announce the completion of our roof replacement, providing lasting protection for years to come. This transformation was made possible thanks to the incredible generosity of Shell Roofing, Antis Roofing & Waterproofing, NRCA – National Roofing Contractors Association, GAF Roofing, and ABC Supply. Together, they donated every part of the project, from materials to installation, a true act of compassion and community support. 

A NIGHT OF IMPACT AND INSPIRATION

On Wednesday, October 29, nearly 700 supporters gathered at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach for the 11th Annual A Few Good Men and Women Gala. Graciously presented by the Ackerman Family/Evalyn Bauer Foundation, Temple Family Charitable Foundation, Lisa and Frank Chapman, and Valero, the evening raised over $850,000 to provide comfort, care, and hope for families with critically ill children staying at the Long Beach Ronald McDonald House.

The Gala honored nine remarkable leaders from the greater Long Beach area for their lasting impact and dedication to philanthropy: Jean Bixby Smith, Barbara Blackwell, Carolyn Caldwell, Nancy Foster, John Freeborn, John Fylpaa, the Honorable Alan Lowenthal, Chris Steinhauser, and Alfredo Velasco. From heartfelt stories to the inspiring honoree runway, the evening showcased the power of community coming together to make a difference.

Thank you to our sponsors, underwriters, in-kind donors, Committee members, Honoree Liaisons, staff, and volunteers who made this unforgettable evening possible!

Click here to view event photos



Click here to view highlight video

WOMEN LEADING THE WAY IN FAMILY-CENTERED CARE

The Long Beach Ronald McDonald House was recently featured in a Southbay Magazine article celebrating the impact of strong female leaders supporting families of seriously ill children. The feature spotlights Executive Director Nina Patel, who joined LBRMH to “pay it forward” after her own family experienced the generosity of another. Nina shares, "We hope to create a community where children and their families embrace life and healing with a sense of hope, enthusiasm, courage and joy by keeping them close to each other and the care they need." The article also highlights the House’s upcoming programs, including renovations, a hospitality cart for South Bay hospitals, and potential day services for families spending long hours at the hospital.



Click here to read the full article

The Long Beach Ronald McDonald House is proud to continue our tradition of partnering with the community to bring holiday magic to the families we serve. We invite supporters to donate new, unwrapped gifts suitable for boys and girls aged from birth to 18 years old. Gifts can be dropped off daily, December 1–10, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Please call (562) 285-4300 to schedule your drop-off!

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GIVE IN THE WAY THAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU!