Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeastern Ohio, Inc.

News

February 17, 2010

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., (RMHC-NEO) recently awarded grants to three (3) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., established in 1987 by local McDonald’s Owner/Operators, has awarded more than $7 Million to children's programs across Northeast Ohio, including ongoing financial support of the Ronald McDonald Houses in Akron and Cleveland.

Cleveland Sight Center was awarded grant funds to purchase items and equipment used in the Children & Youth Services Division to support motor skill development, communication and early academic/literacy skills. Cleveland Sight Center is a multi-faceted nonprofit agency founded in 1906 serving people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Wilson Rogers, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Cleveland.
Common Ground: The Cindy Nord Center for Renewal in Oberlin, OH, received grant funds to purchase items and equipment to support the Pathfinders experiential youth learning program. The Pathfinders program focuses on young people’s sense of relationship with themselves, each other, and with the world and helps build personal assets, leadership skills, and self-esteem. The mission of Common Ground is to provide innovative, holistic educational experiences for individuals and organizations. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operators Joe and Sharon Figueroa, owners of several McDonald’s restaurants in Lorain County.
Merrick House, located in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, was awarded grant funds to purchase items and equipment for the Early Childhood Daycare Center Playground Renovation project. Merrick House is a Settlement House neighborhood center serving the Clark-Fulton-Denison and Tremont neighborhoods and their mission is to respect cultural diversity while encouraging community harmony. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Tony Philiou, owner of McDonald’s Restaurants in Cleveland.

September 16, 2009

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., recently awarded grants to eight (8) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., established in 1987, has awarded more than $7 Million Dollars to children's programs across Northeast Ohio, including ongoing financial support of the Ronald McDonald Houses in Akron and Cleveland.

Battered Women’s Shelter of Summit & Medina Counties was awarded grant funds to support their children’s programs at the Medina Shelter. The mission of the Battered Women’s Shelter is to lead the community in the prevention of domestic abuse by providing emergency shelter, advocacy and education throughout Summit and Medina County, all in an effort to break the cycle of abuse and help promote peace in every family. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Lea Heidman, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Medina County.
Beech Brook, located in Pepper Pike, OH, received grant funds to support their Teen Multipurpose Area Renovation project. The mission of Beech Brook, established in 1852, is to advance the emotional well-being of children, youth and their families by providing effective, innovative behavioral health, permanency and educational services and by serving as a strong voice for children, youth and families. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Meloney Karos, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Greater Cleveland.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Lorain County received a grant to purchase equipment to establish a Fine Arts Program at the Nordson Community Center in Elyria, OH. The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lorain County is to help at-risk boys and girls develop the qualities needed to become responsible citizens and leaders. Boys & Girls Clubs of Lorain County provides a safe haven, adult role models, and a variety of programs that support the educational, emotional, physical, and social development of youth, without regard to social, racial, ethnic, or religious background. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operators Joe and Sharon Figueroa, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Lorain County.
Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center was awarded grant funds to purchase equipment and items for their children’s Speech-Language Program. The mission of the Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center is to serve, advocate for, and empower individuals with diverse communication abilities and to increase public awareness and sensitivity about hearing loss, deafness, speech-language and related literacy issues. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Operations Manager Jeffery Holley, who oversees numerous McDonald’s restaurants in Northeastern Ohio.
HM Life Opportunity Services located in Akron, OH, was awarded funds to purchase equipment and items for their Early Childhood Enrichment Center. HM Life Opportunity Services shares in the life giving mission of the Sister of the Humility of Mary by offering a unique housing program to persons who lack all or some of the basic necessities of life. The program, with its supportive services, assists individuals to become independent. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Blickle, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Akron and Summit County.
Neighborhood House Association, Lorain, OH, received grant funds to purchase items and equipment their School Aged Children Program and for Playground Equipment. Neighborhood House Association serves Lorain County and its neighborhoods to address basic needs, enhance individual and family life and improve neighborhoods and communities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operators Joe and Sharon Figueroa, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Lorain County.
Providence House, located in Cleveland, OH, received grant funds to purchase furnishings, equipment and other items for their Child Development Enhancement Program. Providence House provides a temporary, safe, home-like setting and refuse for children under age six who are in crisis.
Rainey Institute, located in Cleveland, OH, was awarded grant funds to purchase furnishings, equipment and items for their Children’s Art, Music and Computer Programs. Rainey Institute, established 104 years ago, celebrates the talents and strong character of young people who use their outstanding abilities to provide quality artistic experiences for appropriate audiences. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Turan Strange, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Cleveland

May 20, 2009

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., recently awarded grants to nine (9) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Achievement Centers for Children was awarded funds to purchase items and equipment to support the Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program at Camp Cheerful. The mission of Achievement Centers for Children is to work with children with disabilities and their families to create opportunities for lifelong achievement in society. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Wilson Rogers who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center received grant funds to purchase equipment, items and furnishings for the Children’s Waiting Area in their new facility located in the Leader Building in downtown Cleveland. The Cleveland Rape Crisis Center is dedicated to serving survivors of sexual violence and those who support them with free comprehensive healing and advocacy services, and to creating social change in the community through education, training and activism. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Turan Strange who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area.
First Glance Student Center in Akron was awarded funds to purchase equipment, items and furnishings for the Teen Moms Program. The First Glance Teen Moms program seeks to provide support, guidance, and life skills training to teen moms who lack basic parenting skills. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Blickle, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Akron area.
Ronald McDonald House of Akron was awarded funds to support their annual golf outing.
Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland received grant funds to support their annual golf outing and to support their annual fashion show.
The First Tee of Akron was awarded grant funds to purchase equipment and items for the Start New At Golf (S.N.A.G.) Program. The mission of The First Tee of Akron is to impact the lives of Akron-area youth by providing learning facilities and educational programs that promote character development and life-enhancing values through the game of golf. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Blickle owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Akron area.
Townhall II in Kent was awarded grant funds to purchase equipment, items and furnishings for the Children’s Recreational Area at Horizon House Transitional Housing located in Ravenna. Townhall II promotes the health, wellness and recovery of individuals and communities through prevention, education, advocacy, intervention and treatment. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Charles Galloway, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Ravenna and Streetsboro.
UNCF/The College Fund was awarded funds to support their annual golf outing.
YMCA of Akron was awarded grant funds to purchase equipment and items for their Equestrian Program at Camp Y-Noah. The YMCA helps teach character by emphasizing the four key values of respect, responsibility, caring and honesty. The YMCA vision is to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Blickle owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Akron area.

February 18, 2009

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., recently awarded grants to seven (7) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Cleveland Baseball Federation was awarded grant funds to purchase equipment for the summer baseball and softball programs. Cleveland Baseball Federation helps the youth of Cleveland through baseball/softball to develop self esteem, social values and life skills, and find their path to productive citizenship. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Salvatore Baglieri, owner of McDonald’s restaurants in Hudson, Stow and Munroe Falls.
Cleveland Foodbank will receive grant funds to purchase items for the Children’s Nutrition Initiative. The Foodbank’s mission is to alleviate hunger by providing food and support to community organizations that feed the hungry. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Margo Karos, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the greater Cleveland area.
Domestic Violence Shelter in Mansfield, was awarded grant funds to purchase furnishings and items for their Child/Teen recreation rooms. The mission of the Domestic Violence Shelter is to provide an alternative to living in a violent situation and to offer education/resources necessary for victims to make healthier choices for themselves and their families. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Larry Monica, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the Mansfield area.
Family & Community Services, Inc., in Ravenna, will receive grant funds to purchase items for their Youth Center. The mission of Family & Community Services, Inc. is to support, strengthen, and empower individuals and families through a broad continuum of community-based services that meet the needs and values of the community. The agency is guided by a commitment to individual dignity, service excellence, accountability, volunteerism and belief in the solidarity of the human family. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Chuck Galloway, owner of McDonald’s restaurants in Ravenna.
New Life Community in Cleveland, was awarded grant funds to purchase items for their children’s programs. The mission of New Life Community is to inspire, teach and empower homeless, jobless families to transition to a self-sufficient life. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Wilson Rogers, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the greater Cleveland area.
Personal & Family Counseling Services of Tuscarawas Valley, located in New Philadelphia, OH, will receive grant funds to purchase items for their Early Childhood Mental Health program. Personal & Family Counseling Services of Tuscarawas Valley, Inc. is committed to developing and providing a continuum of quality services to strengthen adults, children, families and communities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Vickie Lewis, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the New Philadelphia area.
The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, located in Ashland, OH, was awarded grant funds to purchase items for their Children & Youth recreational programs. The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Centers offer recreational, spiritual, educational, and cultural arts programs of superb quality. These versatile facilities are open to people of all ages and offer a wide variety of programs and services focused on building character, confidence, and capacity for excellence within underserved communities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Operations Manager Jeffery Holley, who supervises operations at the McDonald’s restaurants in Ashland.

September 10, 2008

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., recently awarded grants to sixteen (16) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

America SCORES Cleveland, located in Cleveland, OH, was awarded grant funds to support their children’s programs. America SCORES Cleveland empowers students in urban communities using soccer, writing, creative expression and service learning.
Cleveland BoyChoir, located in Cleveland, OH, received grant funds to support their children’s programs. Cleveland BoyChoir provides choral and extracurricular programs for inner-city youth.
Cleveland Christian Home received a grant to purchase furnishings and items for their Media Arts/Recreation Area for residents at the residential treatment center. The Cleveland Christian Home exists as a haven for hope and healing for children, youth and families struggling with mental illness, abuse or neglect. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Robert Jursich, Jr., owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the greater Cleveland area.
Cleveland Reads was awarded grant funds to purchase equipment, furnishings and books for an Early Childhood Learning and Family Literacy Program at Arbor Park Village in Cleveland, OH. Cleveland Reads aims to build a community of literacy by serving as the central resource and advocate for learners, tutors and providers in Greater Cleveland. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Turan Strange, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Cleveland.
Diabetes Association of Greater Cleveland was awarded funds to purchase sports equipment for Camp Ho Mita Koda, a summer camp located in Geauga County for children with diabetes. Camp Ho Mita Koda’s mission is to enable children to live well with diabetes through an enjoyable camp experience. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Allen D. Smith, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties.
Domestic Violence Project, Canton, OH, received grant funds to purchase art therapy equipment and supplies. Domestic Violence Project provides safe housing for women and their children fleeing domestic violence; assessment, counseling, and case management for victims (including children) of domestic violence; alcohol and drug treatment, and domestic violence prevention programs.
Fieldstone Farm Therapeutic Riding Center in Chagrin Falls was awarded funds to support their children’s support their education and therapy programs. Through a special partnership with horses, Fieldstone Farm Therapeutic Riding Center offers programs designed by professionals to foster personal growth and individual achievement for people with ~~dis~~abilities. This grant was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Margo Karos who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area.
Hospice of Tuscarawas County, located in Dover, OH, received grant funds to purchase outdoor children’s play equipment and indoor children’s therapy/play items and children’s furnishings. Hospice of Tuscarawas County offers comprehensive health care and end of life care services for people with a terminal illness and their families. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Vickie Lewis, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in New Philadelphia, Dover and Uhrichsville.
Project LEARN of Summit County, located in Akron, OH, was awarded grant funds to support their children’s literacy programs. Project LEARN of Summit County’s mission is to provide literacy and life long learning services to families in Summit County.
Rose-Mary Center, located in Euclid, OH, was awarded grant funds to purchase therapeutic items and equipment for their residential treatment center. Rose-Mary Center provides residential treatment to children with disabilities and operates several group homes for adults with developmental disabilities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Salvatore Baglieri, owner of McDonald’s restaurants in Hudson, Stow and Munroe Falls.
Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth, located in Shaker Heights, OH, received grant funds to purchase furnishings and items for their therapy program aimed at foster youth and their families. SAFY provides services to foster children and adopted children and their families and several other programs for children and families. They strive to foster an environment that positively impacts the lives of youth and their families. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Wilson Rogers, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in greater Cleveland.
The First Tee Cleveland, located in Newburgh Heights, was awarded grant funds to purchase items for their Health & Fitness education program for children. The First Tee Cleveland’s mission is to positively impact the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and educational programs that promote strong character development and life-enhancing values through the game of golf. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Kenneth McCoy, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in greater Cleveland.
The Spanish American Committee, located in Cleveland, OH, received grant funds to purchase infant and toddler items for the Spanish American Committee Day Care Center. The Spanish American Committee strives to serve as the gateway to socioeconomic success for the entire Hispanic community.
University Settlement, located in Cleveland, OH, was awarded grant funds to purchase furnishings and items for their Teen Recreation Center. University Settlement serves the changing needs of the Broadway Neighborhood community with a variety of social programs to enhance the quality of life for children and families.
West Side Community House, located in Cleveland, OH, received grant funds to purchase equipment for their Health & Physical Fitness program for children. Founded in 1890, West Side Community House is a mission driven institution on Cleveland’s West Side that values person-oriented services as a means to strengthen the individual, the family, the neighborhood and the community. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald's Owner/Operator Robert Jursich, Jr., owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the greater Cleveland area
Youth Challenge, located in Westlake, OH, received a grant to support their children’s programs. Youth Challenge brings together children with physical disabilities and youth volunteers who enrich each other’s lives through one-on-one participation in adapted sports and recreational activities.

May 28, 2008

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio, Inc., recently awarded grants to ten (10) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve was awarded funds to purchase furnishings, equipment and supplies for their Teen Recreation/Activity Areas in the Akron club and the Ravenna Club. The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve is to inspire and enable all young people to realize their full potential as responsible, caring and productive citizens. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Blickle, who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Akron area.
Boys Hope Girls Hope of Northeastern Ohio, located in Garfield Heights, OH, received grant funds to purchase health and fitness equipment for residential youth. Boys Hope Girls Hope helps academically capable and motivated children-in-need to meet their full potential and become men and women for others by providing value centered, family-like homes, opportunities and education through college. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Robert Jursich, Jr., who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area.
Diabetes Association of Greater Cleveland was awarded funds to purchase sports equipment for Camp Ho Mita Koda, a summer camp located in Geauga County for children with diabetes. Camp Ho Mita Koda’s mission is to enable children to live well with diabetes through an enjoyable camp experience. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Allen D. Smith, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties.
·Pegasus Farm, located in Hartville, OH, received grant funds to purchase equipment to support their therapeutic equine program for children and to sponsor the Annual Horse Show for three years. The mission of Pegasus Farm is to maximize the potential of persons with disabilities to become independent, well-rounded, self-confident individuals by providing horseback riding along with recreational and social support. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Tom Locke, owner of the McDonald’s restaurant located in Hartville several other McDonald’s restaurants in Stark County.
Ronald McDonald House of Akron was awarded funds to support their annual golf outing.
Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland received grant funds to support their annual golf outing and to support their annual fashion show.
The Gathering Place was awarded grant funds to purchase furnishings and equipment for the children’s therapy/activity room for the new Westlake, OH, facility that will open October 2008. The Gathering Place is a nonprofit, community-based cancer support center, serving the social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of individuals with cancer and their support network. At The Gathering Place people with cancer and their family and friends share experiences and challenges in the spirit of hope and community. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Powers, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in Greater Cleveland.
The Spanish American Committee, located in Cleveland, OH, received grant funds to purchase equipment and items for the Spanish American Committee Day Care Center. The Spanish American Committee strives to serve as the gateway to socioeconomic success for the entire Hispanic community. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Tony Philiou, owner of the McDonald’s restaurant located on Clark Avenue in Ohio City and other McDonald’s restaurants in Greater Cleveland.
UNCF/The College Fund was awarded funds to support their annual golf outing.
YMCA of Central Stark County was awarded grant funds to purchase equipment and items for their equestrian program for youth at Camp Tippecanoe. The YMCA helps teach character by emphasizing the four key values of respect, responsibility, caring and honesty. The YMCA vision is to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Vickie Lewis, owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in New Philadelphia, Dover and Uhrichsville.

February 13, 2008

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio recently awarded grants to two (2) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

● ACCESS, Inc., in Akron, OH, was awarded funds to purchase furnishings, equipment and supplies for The Cove: Teen Recreation/Activity Area. ACCESS, Inc., is a place where women and children can find refuge and life-transforming help in an atmosphere of compassion where all people are treated with dignity and respect. ACCESS is dedicated to addressing the plight of homeless women and children in the local community. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Blickle, who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Akron area.

● Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland was awarded funds for the replacement of carpeting in their front foyer. Since 1979, the Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland has been a ‘home away from home’ for families whose seriously-ill children are receiving medical care at one of Cleveland, Ohio’s, area hospitals. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Dave Stiles, who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Cleveland area.

October 10, 2007

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio (RMHC-NEO) recently voted to award a grant to Toy Time, Inc., located in Mansfield, Ohio, to purchase new toys and other items to support their toy give away to area economically disadvantaged children ages birth to young teen. Toys to be purchased include bicycles, scooters, wagons, dolls, trucks, cars, board games and other age appropriate toys. The grant was endorsed by local McDonald’s Owner/Operator Larry Monica, who owns restaurants in the Richland County area.

September 12, 2007

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio recently awarded grants to seven (7) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Berea Children’s Home and Family Services, located in Berea, was awarded a grant to purchase items and furnishings for their seven Family Life Child Care Centers located in Berea, Brook Park, East Cleveland, Lakewood, Maple Heights and two locations in Middleburg Heights. The mission of Berea Children’s Home and Family Services is to improve the lives and opportunities of children, families and adults by providing an integrated system of effective behavioral health and family support services. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Joe Malafarina who owns McDonald’s restaurants in Berea and Middleburg Heights.
.Deepwood Foundation, located in Mentor, was awarded a grant to purchase equipment to initiate a lending program to meet the therapeutic needs of children in need of specialized adaptive equipment. The Deepwood Foundation is “helping individuals with special needs – help themselves.” This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Allen D. Smith who owns restaurants in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties.
Lorain County Safe Harbor, located in Lorain, received a grant to purchase children’s furnishings and equipment to support their domestic violence shelter, Genesis House. The mission of Lorain County Safe Harbor – Genesis House is to provide a comprehensive range of family-focused services for Lorain County victims of domestic violence. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Operations Manager Jeff Holley who manages several McDonald’s restaurants in Northeast Ohio.
Shelter Care, Inc., in Akron was awarded a grant to purchase equipment and furnishings for their emergency shelter for troubled youth, Safe Landing Youth Shelters. Shelter Care provides a continuum of residential care, from short-term crisis intervention, to intermediate or respite care, as well as long term care in route to independent living. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Blickle, who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the greater Akron area.
Twin City Hospital located in Dennison, was awarded a grant to purchase adaptive fitness equipment to support their Pediatric Wellness Program aimed at youth with disabilities. Twin City Hospital is a 25-bed critical access hospital located in rural Dennison, Ohio and was founded in 1912 by a group of local philanthropic women. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Virginia Lewis who owns McDonald’s restaurants in Dover, New Philadelphia and Uhrichsville.
United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Cleveland, located in the University Circle area of downtown Cleveland, was awarded a grant to purchase adaptive therapeutic equipment to enhance their Children’s Intensive Therapy program. The mission of United Cerebral Palsy is to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Meloney Karos Herrick who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area.
Youth Challenge, located in Westlake, received a grant to purchase adaptive recreational fitness equipment for physically challenged youth. The mission of Youth Challenge brings together children with physical disabilities and youth volunteers who enrich each other’s lives through one-on-one participation in adapted sports and recreational activities. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Steve Payne who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in Northeast Ohio.

May 23, 2007

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio recently awarded grants to nine (9) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Cleveland was awarded funds to purchase items and equipment for their Fine Arts, Performing Arts and Athletic Programs. Boys and Girls Clubs of Cleveland directly serves over 3,000 active members and has provided services to thousands of family members, siblings and other community members in the Cleveland area. BGCC’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible adults. This grant was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Robert Jursich, Jr., owner of several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area.
Christian Children’s Home of Ohio, Inc., located in Wooster, received funds to purchase recreational equipment. The mission of Christian Children's Home of Ohio (CCHO) is to bring healing to hurting children and families. CCHO serves abused and neglected children and their families. This grant was endorsed by McDonald’s Operations Manager, Jeffery Holley, who manages several McDonald’s restaurants in Northeast Ohio.
Fieldstone Farm Therapeutic Riding Center in Chagrin Falls was awarded funds to purchase therapeutic equine equipment and other items to support their education and therapy programs. Through a special partnership with horses, Fieldstone Farm Therapeutic Riding Center offers programs designed by professionals to foster personal growth and individual achievement for people with ~~dis~~abilities. This grant was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Margo Karos who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area.
J. R. Coleman Child Care & Family Center in Canton was awarded funds to purchase items and equipment for outdoor recreational programs. The mission of J. R. Coleman Family Services is to facilitate and support the efforts of individuals and families in achieving and maintaining independence, security and personal well-being. This grant was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Gaetano Cecchini who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in the Canton area.
Near West Theatre located in the Ohio City neighborhood of Cleveland, was awarded funds to purchase equipment and items for their Theater Program for Youth. Near West Theatre, through the theater arts, delivers an inclusive, self-esteem building process and high-quality theater productions and programming that help build Cleveland's near west side and surrounding neighborhoods; educates and raises awareness around issues of social justice, discrimination and stigma; provides people of all ages with the ability to nurture their sense of identity and strengthen their purpose as individuals and as a community. This grant was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operators Angelo and Susie Stames who own McDonald’s restaurants in Cleveland.
North East Ohio Health Services located in Beachwood was awarded funds to purchase therapeutic equipment for their youth therapy program. The mission of North East Ohio Health Services is to enhance individual and community health by offering a comprehensive, cost effective, integrated system of care focusing on behavioral health that promotes wellness, healing, and quality of life to those individuals and families. This grant was endorsed by McDonald’s Operations Manager, Jeffery Holley, who manages several McDonald’s restaurants in Northeast Ohio.
Ronald McDonald House of Akron was awarded funds to support their annual golf outing.
Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland was awarded funds to support their annual golf outing and to support their annual fashion show.
UNCF/The College Fund was awarded funds to support their annual golf outing.

February 19, 2007

The Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeastern Ohio recently awarded grants to four (4) area non-profit organizations whose services are provided to children.

Heights Youth Theater, located in Cleveland Heights, will receive grant funds to purchase equipment and items to support their Youth Theater Program. Heights Youth Theater was established in 1954 and engages youth ages 6 to 18 in a comprehensive theater experience. The mission of Heights Youth Theater is “to entertain, to education and to inspire.” This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operators Angelo and Susie Stames who own two McDonald’s restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area.
Make-A-Wish® Foundation of Northern Ohio, located in Cleveland, was awarded a grant to purchase cameras, film and other items to support their Wish Memories program. The mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. These grant funds will be used to enhance the lives of over 500 children and their families in Northeastern Ohio. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Turan Strange who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in Cleveland.
Shoes and Clothes for Kids, located in Cleveland, received a grant to purchase shoe gift cards for distribution to children in the Greater Cleveland area. Shoes and Clothes for Kids was established in 1969 by founder Morrie Sayre in response to his learning that many children lacked adequate footwear. Shoes and Clothes for Kids provides a unique service for income-eligible families in Greater Cleveland by distributing new shoes, clothing and items for infants and youth. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Margo Karos who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in Northeast Ohio.
West Side Catholic Center, located in Cleveland, was awarded a grant to purchase and install a safe and fun playground structure at their Women & Children’s Shelter. The Shelter houses 32 women and children, providing a full range of transitional services that assist women and their children in moving from homelessness to stable housing and employment. The Shelter is only one of many programs offered by West Side Catholic Center. Grounded in faith, hope, love and respect for those they serve, the West Side Catholic Center assists all who come in need of food, clothing, shelter and advocacy. This grant application was endorsed by McDonald’s Owner/Operator Stephen Payne who owns several McDonald’s restaurants in Northeast Ohio.