October Volunteer of the Month – Lara Bencscics
Meet our volunteers! Each month, we highlight stand-out volunteers and how they support families. For October, meet Lara Bencsics who volunteers at our Ronald McDonald House near Comer.
How long have you volunteered with Ronald McDonald House?
I began volunteering in February 2023.
Where/how do you typically volunteer and what do you usually do?
I started as a house volunteer, and I will begin volunteering at the Hospitality Cart at the Ronald McDonald Family Room inside Comer Children’s Hospital soon. At the house, I typically restock the laundry as well as the snack drawers, or any other tasks around the house. Since I usually volunteer at night, I also work with meal groups. Finally, I work at the front desk, helping families with anything that they need!
Why did you first start volunteering with Ronald McDonald House, and what keeps you coming back?
I first heard about RMHC from a friend in Boston and decided that I wanted to volunteer near my university. I come back every time because of the people. The staff and other volunteers are wonderful, and I have made many friends. Furthermore, I love meeting and working with the families!
What is your favorite memory or experience from volunteering?
I have tons of memories and make new ones every time I volunteer! However, one of my fondest memories was helping to assemble the Christmas village at the house. While it did take a long time, I got to bond with the other volunteers and staff who were working on it as well. It looked amazing when it was done, and I loved seeing all of the families enjoying it throughout the holidays!
What does it mean to you to donate your time to our organization?
I love being a part of the RMHC-CCNI community. I love working and helping the families that stay at the house and have always felt so welcome. Donating my time at RMHC-CCNI has meant helping families so that they don’t need to think about things such as where they will stay and what they will eat when they are going through the worst times of their lives. I want to be able to help them as much as I can.
If someone was thinking about becoming a volunteer with our organization, what would you tell them about getting involved?
I would say do it immediately! There are so many ways to get involved, even just by donating! Being a volunteer has been such a wonderful experience during my college time, and I would recommend it to anyone.
Thank you, Lara, for all that you do for children and families!