November Volunteer of the Month – Kathy Comperchio
Meet our volunteers! Each month, we highlight a stand-out volunteer (or two) and how they support families. For November, meet Kathy Comperchio, whose years of dedication have made a difference for countless families.
- How long have you volunteered with us?
I’ve volunteered with RMHC-CNI for about nine and a half years at three different Ronald McDonald Houses in the area. - Where do you usually volunteer, and what do you typically do?
I volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House near Loyola University Medical Center. I’m the House organizer and I also tackle special projects, which I love doing. Some of my typical tasks include sorting donations, shelving and stocking supplies, and organizing various areas of the House that need attention (pantry, toy room, kitchen cabinets, etc.).No job is too big or too small, because I know it all makes a difference. I can be found anywhere in the House happily doing whatever needs to be done that helps our staff and volunteers take care of our families. - Why did you first start volunteering with RMHC, and what keeps you coming back?
My first experience volunteering for Ronald McDonald House Charities was in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After moving to Illinois, I started volunteering at the House on Deming Place, and then the House near Lurie Children’s when it opened. Since then, I have been involved at the RMH near Loyola for several years.I love my volunteer role because I am reminded of how good people are simply by watching what comes through our doors every day; donations of food, supplies, toys, backpacks, pop tabs and more. It truly is the kindness of others that helps us care for our families, and every small act of kindness counts. - What is your favorite memory or experience from volunteering?
One of my favorite memories (among many) of volunteering at the House was helping a young mom choose Christmas gifts for her children from Santa’s Workshop. She chose toys for each child and expressed how very grateful she was. She then started to cry, and that made us both cry. That moment made an impression on me. She was so deeply grateful that RMHC-CNI made it possible for her children to have Christmas that year because of the generosity and kindness of others. We care for these families in so many ways. - What does it mean to you to donate your time to RMHC-CNI?
RMHC-CNI is an amazing charity with a caring, close-knit community of staff and volunteers. It truly feels like we’re part of a very large family that is helping other families.My first introduction to RMHC was in 1993. My sister-in-law was staying at the RMH near Mott Children’s Hospital in Detroit while our nephew Timmy was being treated for brain cancer. It was because of her experience at the House and the caring, supportive staff and volunteers that I am a volunteer today.
Thank you Kathy for your continued dedication and commitment to helping families get better together!