Can I Show You to Your Seat? Give Back Girls at Dancing Under the Stars Gala

Give Back Girls Angie, Johanna, Arlene, and Michelle

While our intention is to highlight the many different ways to volunteer, some volunteer opportunities are worth repeating! The Give Back Girls were requested to volunteer at the annual Dancing Under the Stars Gala for Ronald McDonald House (RMH) again this year. When asked, it was a quick "yes!" Michelle and I don’t mind getting a little dirt on our hands when we have to, but this was a chance for the girls to get all fancied up!!

GBGs Angie, Johanna, Arlene, and Michelle

Emily, of RMH, assigned us to ushering guests to their tables. This was the perfect post for helping out while taking in all the lovely fashionistas and their dapper men as they entered the event!

We waved hello to Gil Simmons and he graciously returned an enthusiastic hello. When the time was right, the girls and Gill shared a photo op moment that was posted on Gil’s FaceBook page!

GBG Angie, GBG Michele, Gil Simmons, GBGs Arlene and Johanna

Someone, without mentioning names, left with their badge! LOL if that is the worse debacle GBGs have for the year, we got this!

GBG Johanna

We always enjoy this event for its grand atmosphere but it’s the benefit that draws us back to RMH. The families, served by RMH, have children that are afflicted with an illness or severe injury requiring long term stays in the hospital. These families do not live near the hospital and without RMH, would be separated during this difficult time. Parents would be sleeping at the bed side for days, weeks, or sometimes months while their child gets the care they need.

RMH gives these exhausted family members a place of respite near the hospital to be close to their child. Providing a place to gather, comfortable beds, hot showers, and food for these families is a big task for a non-profit organization. RMH depends on the giving and donations of businesses, organizations, and individuals to sustain this amazing service in the community. I can't end here without explaining the emotional need that is met at this house. The sick children, many times, have siblings that stay at the house. They can be sad, confused, and overall displaced. RMH staff and volunteers become part of their family. Recognizing their needs, and celebrating milestones that occur while away from their familiar home. Extraordinary! If this has touched you, take look at their site for more information.

Give Back Girls Arlene and Michelle

Give Back Girls Angie and Johanna

For volunteer appreciation month, the Give Back Girls joined other Ronald McDonald House volunteers for an evening of BINGO! There was a pizza dinner, dessert, prizes, and thank you gifts. A good time.

GBGs Sue, Johanna, Arlene, Angie, Michelle, Colleen, and Sarah with the RMH exec Director, Michelle D'Amore

Thank you for reading along. Check out our Volunteer Opportunities page for our line up of events that we will be participating in. Join us if you would like and follow us on instagram and facebook as GiveBackGirlsCT for more pictures and fun.