RMHC's mission is to create a "home away from home" for families with children facing medical challenges by providing an atmosphere of comfort, hope, and courage. AZFoothills.com interviews Nancy Roach, the Executive Director, about the work they do for families all around the Valley.
AFM: Tell us more about what RMHC does in the Valley.
NR: We provide a safe space for families in Arizona who are seeking medical care for their children. They have a place to stay and feel comfortable—there's even a play area for kids. The people who we help are traveling far from home in order to get care for their children, and often times it's unrealistic and financially challenging to commute or stay at a hotel during their child's treatment period. Here at RMHC we try our best to create a home away from home for these families.
AFM: What does your job entail at RMHC?
NR: My role is to work with both the staff and the Board of Directors and make sure things stay on track for the future. I am also constantly trying to think of new ways we can improve. Everything we focus on and work towards, we do thinking of the families that we serve. Right now we are working on opening another house near Cardon Children's Medical Center that will hopefully be available for families by late 2014.
AFM: What fundraising events do you hold?
NR: Operation Santa Claus is our holiday fundraising event. ABC15 partners with Sanderson Ford and Sanderson Lincoln and helps collect donations for children's charities in the Valley. We raise money, toys, clothing, and food. To donate, visit our webpage at www.rmhcphoenix.com and click on the red "donate" button at the top. Throughout the year we also hold our Annual Walk in March and our signature event titled A McNight to Remember.
AFM: What is your favorite part about working with RMHC?
NR: The families that we meet are a big influence in mine, our staff and volunteer's lives--they are incredible people who are fighting for their kids' lives. I've found that the community living style of our houses allows families to be around other families going through the same thing, and I see them being able to talk and support one another. It is inspiring to work around these families, and it encourages the staff and myself to continue to work hard at our jobs so we are able to help others as much as we can.
To learn more about RMHC of Phoenix, click here.
