Every day at RMHC Pittsburgh and Morgantown, volunteers transform this simple definition into something extraordinary. Their generosity turns ordinary tasks into meaningful change, creating hope and stability for families who are far from home. Behind every meal served, every family program hosted, every pull tab saved, every Wish List item collected, and every household task completed, are the individuals whose selflessness shines through in all they do – giving not because they have to, but because they want to.

“It feels rewarding to put a smile on the families’ faces, even if it for just a moment.” – Damian, RMHC Pittsburgh Volunteer

From meals to welcome bags to pull tabs to wish list items, one family’s mission to honor their daughter has created a rippling effect of kindness and generosity for families in need.

On what would have been their youngest daughter Vivianne’s first birthday, Leah and Damian sought a meaningful way to honor her memory. It was important for them to choose something they could do together with their oldest daughter, Eliana. Surrounded by family and friends, they decided to prepare a meal at Ronald McDonald House.

“Through our own experience, we knew the importance of taking a break to eat and we wanted to provide that opportunity for other families,” said Leah.

Since that first meal in 2019, the family has returned each year on Vivianne’s birthday to make a meal and donate Wish List items. And in doing so, they’ve shown how one act of love, repeated year after year, can inspire others to help.

First Eliana’s class chose Ronald McDonald House for their service project. Leah went into the school to talk about the Charity’s mission and its impact on others. The group made welcome bags filled with snacks and activities for Ronald McDonald House families to take to the hospital on long days.

Additionally, a friend who joined Leah and Damian to make a meal on one of their visits went back to work to encourage her coworkers to do the same. Her department now volunteers regularly.

Damian and Leah also have friends who love to ride their motorcycles and collect pull tabs on their adventures to donate to the House. Each tab is recycled, helping the Charity to raise thousands of dollars yearly to support families.

While honoring their daughter by volunteering, Leah and Damian have inspired others to do the same in their own ways, showing how one act of kindness creates a network of support and compassion for those in need.

“I love being part of an environment that is so supportive of families in need.”– Lynnie, Ronald McDonald House Morgantown House Warmer



Between early morning lectures, late-night study sessions and a calendar packed with deadlines, most college students are simply trying to keep up. But for Lynnie, a student at West Virginia University, busy isn’t a reason to step back from helping others.

One to two evenings each week, Lynnie volunteers as a House Warmer at Ronald McDonald House Morgantown. When she arrives, she doesn’t have a specific role, she just jumps right in to do whatever needs to be done. Some days, this may mean cleaning out refrigerators, organizing toy and book donations or stocking the food pantry. Other days, it may mean making cards with thoughtful messages for families going through difficult times. You name it, she does it.

And her willingness to take on any task, no matter how big or small, hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“Lynnie is a rock star. She is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and work wherever she is needed,” said Jillian Bratton, volunteer coordinator.

This volunteer experience has left a lasting impact on Lynnie. Beyond the tasks completed, she has learned the value of connection and the power of community.

As a West Virginia native, this opportunity has taught her how truly caring people are in her state. The donations of food and comfort items that come in from many communities have shown her how much the people of West Virginia want to help each other.

“I have seen such a sense of community through this experience,” she said. “It’s truly inspiring.”