RISMEDIA, Feb. 8, 2007-On Tuesday, January 23, 2007, the John L. Scott Foundation dedicated a room solely for the use of the teens living at the Ronald McDonald House, which provides housing for ill children and their families being treated at Seattle Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center. Transformed from a former storage area, the new space is teen-friendly with a pool table, two televisions, gaming systems (including the new Wii system), couches, and a home theater sound system. New carpet and paint, plus connections for cable and Internet are also part of the makeover.
"Life is not normal for the teens who call the Seattle Ronald McDonald House home," said J. Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott Real Estate. "They seldom have the chance to hang out in their own space with other teens-until now."
Teens represent about 25% of all children staying at the Ronald McDonald House, which serves 1,200 families annually. These teens are suffering from a serious or chronic illness, which includes leukemia and other cancers, heart conditions and transplants, among others. Many teens spend months-and sometimes over a year-at the House while they are undergoing medical treatment in Seattle.
"The teen years can be tough. We appreciate the John L. Scott Foundation for understanding that the teens here at the House are often separated from their friends for many months and need a place to hang out, watch TV, play games or just talk with other teens going through similar experiences. Having their own space is invaluable," said Dianna Finnerty, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Washington & Alaska executive director.
"We wanted to help the Ronald McDonald House create a dedicated Teen Room to better serve the many teens who spend months at the House while undergoing medical treatment," said Scott.
John L. Scott Foundation sales associates and staff have also committed to volunteering for the Ronald McDonald House Family Meal Program and will make dinners for the families every Tuesday for the duration of 2007. "The families that stay at Ronald McDonald House experience a high level of stress due to their child's illness or health status. Having a prepared meal waiting at the House when they return from the hospital removes the burden of cooking for themselves," said Scott.
"We are thrilled at the commitment the John L. Scott Foundation has made to the House," said Judy Adams, Ronald McDonald House Manager of Volunteer Services. "Words can't express our appreciation."
For more information, visit www.JohnLScottFoundation.com and www.rmhcseattle.org.
