Laurel Hill School students and families gathered at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital recently to present a check for $3,245 to Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro (RMHC NYM), raised during their “30 Miles in 30 Days” fundraiser.
Spearheaded by the Laurel Hill School Student Council and the National Junior Honor Society, the initiative encouraged participants to walk or run 30 miles in 30 days during November 2024, fostering both community involvement and physical activity. Families formed teams and rallied support, fundraising on behalf of their children to exceed the initial $500 goal. The effort culminated in one of the first third-party fundraisers supporting the construction of the new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook, inspiring the community and showcasing the power of local collaboration.
“I am always looking for ways to help the community, and when I found out about the Ronald McDonald House being built at Stony Brook Hospital, I thought this could be a meaningful way for our students and families to make a difference,” said William Schmidt, who led the initiative. “Thanks to the incredible support from families and the ‘SuperMoms’ who formed teams, we raised over $3,000, far beyond our initial goal of $500. I look forward to making this an annual event and surpassing this year’s total.”
The funds raised will directly support the construction of the new Ronald McDonald House, which will provide families of critically ill children a place to stay close to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. This effort highlights the profound impact that schools and local communities can have in advancing charitable causes.
“We are so grateful to Willie and Laurel Hill School for fundraising to contribute to our effort to build a Ronald McDonald House in Stony Brook,” Matthew Campo, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro. “This is the first school fundraiser for our Stony Brook project and a great example of how the community comes together to make a difference.”
About Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro
Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro provides a “home away from home” for families with children receiving medical care. The organization supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and their families across the region.
About Laurel Hill School Located in East Setauket, NY, Laurel Hill School is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, leadership, and community service in its students. Through initiatives like this fundraiser, Laurel Hill continues to inspire students to become compassionate and engaged members of society.