Gardening with Ronald McDonald House

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Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI) exists so families can get better together. We provide lodging and other essential services at our Chicagoland locations to keep families close to their hospitalized children.

Our Ronald McDonald Houses greatly rely on the generosity and efforts of many volunteers to run smoothly for the families we serve. One way volunteers provide support is by gardening and maintaining the grounds at our Ronald McDonald House near Advocate Children’s Hospital.

Built nestled in a grove of trees on Oak Lawn High School District land, the Ronald McDonald House near Advocate Children’s Hospital accommodates 21 families a night, and provides a true sensory experience for guest families. Providing that experience comes with a large task of keeping our grounds pristine in the spring, summer, and fall months.

We need volunteers (groups welcome!) to come to the House to help weed, mow, rake, plant and keep our grounds welcoming to all who visit. Our shed contains all equipment needed to complete any required gardening task, so there is no need to bring supplies.

Participation Requirements:

• Groups may include up to 10 volunteers.
• All volunteers must be at least 16 years old (groups with minor volunteers must have a least one adult volunteer present for every three individuals under 18 years of age).
• This program is weather permitting, please be prepared to work outside only.

Parking:

There is no parking at the House. Volunteers may park for free in Advocate Hospital tower C, directly across the street from the House.

What should I wear?

Volunteers should dress comfortably, as tasks may be physical and you will be working outside. Be sure to dress for the weather!

How do I sign up?

• Email our Volunteer Services Team ( volunteers@rmhccni.org) for more details, or for next steps on selecting a date for your group.