A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

As summer begins, we hope you are finding time to enjoy the longer days and moments of connection with the people who matter most. Here at the House, summer is generally one of our busiest times with families, summer camp, and everything we do to enjoy the warm season.

 

As we step into the summer though, it’s clear the need for Ronald McDonald House has never been greater. This year, the number of nights families have stayed with us has increased by 11%, reflecting the growing number of people who rely on a comfortable place to stay while their child receives medical care. As I write this update, we have already provided more than 9,000 nights of free lodging and support this year.

 

We are also seeing tremendous use of our Ronald McDonald House Family Room, where families can find rest, comfort and practical resources just steps from their child’s bedside inside Mayo Clinic Hospital, Saint Marys Campus. We knew this program would be important, but the early response has exceeded our expectations.

 

Meeting this growing demand is possible only because of the remarkable community surrounding our mission. Volunteers generously share their time and talents, partners provide essential resources, and donors help parents remain focused on what matters most, their child.

 

Thank you for continuing to show up when families need you most. As we move through the summer, stay tuned for some incredible news about how we are preparing to take the next step in serving more families, better. Exciting opportunities are on the horizon that will make each day a little easier for those staying at the House.


Nick Mueller

Chief Executive Officer
Ronald McDonald House Southeastern MN & Western WI

PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES

Help Feed Families This Summer and Fall

A home-cooked meal may seem simple, but for families staying at Ronald McDonald House, it means one less thing to worry about after a long day at the hospital.


We are currently seeking House Dinner volunteer groups to help provide meals throughout the summer and fall.


Gather your coworkers, friends, family, or service organization and make a meaningful impact by serving comfort, care, and community to families when they need it most.

FEATURED STORY

Two Children, One Family

When Jordan traveled to Rochester seeking answers for not one, but two children living with dystonia, she found more than expert medical care. She found a place where her family could rest, reconnect, and simply be together.


Read how the Ronald McDonald House provided comfort, community, and hope during one family's journey toward healing.



VISIT THE HOUSE

Welcome Wednesdays

One Wednesday each month, we invite prospective volunteers and supporters to visit the House, meet our team, and see our work in action.


These visits offer a behind-the-scenes look at how we support families every day and the impact made possible by our community.



Upcoming Welcome Wednesday dates:


  • July 15 | 10:00–12:00 p.m.
  • August 19 | 1:00–3:00 p.m.
  • September 16 | 4:00–6:00 p.m.
    

An RSVP is appreciated to help us plan accordingly.

EVENTS

Swing Your Birdie 
Golf Classic

More than $86,000 raised for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House! 


Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Swing Your Birdie Golf Classic, co-presented by Think Bank and Subaru of Rochester.


Together, golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters helped make a meaningful impact for families staying at the House.


Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this event successful to support our mission.

IMPACT

Year to Date Impact

In the first half of 2026, your support helped hundreds of families stay close to the care their child needed. Through both the Ronald McDonald House and our Family Room, families found comfort, connection, and a place to turn during some of life's most challenging moments.


Family Room: 3,300+ Families Served

Since opening on February 18, the Ronald McDonald Family Room has welcomed more than 3,300 families, including over 150 from Olmsted County. We are proud to extend our mission beyond the House, providing families with a place to rest, recharge, and remain close to their child just steps from the hospital.


House: 9,000+ Nights of Lodging

So far in 2026, the Ronald McDonald House has provided more than 9,000 nights of lodging for over 750 families, helping them stay together while their child receives medical care.


Thank you to everyone who supports our mission through your generosity, time, talents, and advocacy. Because of you, families can focus on what matters most—being together.

Become a Family Room Volunteer

Your hands and heart help create comfort for families staying close to their child’s bedside.

Join our Hearts

of Gold Society

Leave a lasting legacy by naming the Ronald McDonald House in your will or estate. Contact Lauren Hutchinson for more information.

Needs List
Donated items are essential to daily life at the Ronald McDonald House, helping families feel cared for while allowing us to meet their needs.