At Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA), we believe that when a child is seriously ill or injured, the entire family needs more than a place to stay — they need comfort, community, and the assurance that they are not alone.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, RMHCA provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare the most. In 2024 alone, RMHC of Alabama provided more than 20,000 nights of stay possible, easing both emotional and financial burdens for families facing medical crises.
This Mother’s Day, we are honored to share the story of Jennifer and Elizabeth Smith, a mother-daughter duo whose journey with RMHCA reflects the lasting impact of giving. As members of the Max Cooper Society, Jennifer and Elizabeth’s commitment demonstrates how what often begins as a simple act of generosity can grow into a powerful family legacy — not only supporting today’s families but inspiring future generations to give back.
From Intern to Lifelong Advocate
Elizabeth Smith first learned about the Ronald McDonald House as a middle schooler when a close friend’s family stayed at the House in Nashville. Years later, while attending Auburn University, she became RMHCA’s very first intern, witnessing the mission in action and seeing firsthand how the House brings comfort and community to families during their hardest days.
“I remember watching families come back from the hospital and gather in the kitchen, connecting with others who truly understood what they were going through. That community changed my life,” Elizabeth recalls.
Though she was a college student at the time, the experience left a mark that would stay with her for life. Now, as a mother of two young children, Elizabeth recognizes what she once could only observe. The comfort, community, and hope families receive at RMHCA is possible because of generous donors who make it all happen. Their support doesn’t just provide shelter. It provides relief, resilience, and a place to belong.
“This place cannot run without people supporting it. The Ronald McDonald House gives families who are going through these horrible, scary times, not only a roof over their head and a meal, but a community to come home to.”
It also planted the seeds of a family tradition. As Elizabeth’s commitment to RMHCA deepened, her mother, Jennifer, joined her in supporting the mission. Today, they donate together and talk to Elizabeth’s own children about the importance of giving back, passing down those values to the next generation.
“I want my kids to grow up understanding why we give — so that one day, they’ll continue this tradition of helping others.”
Join a legacy of Love and Double your impact
Jennifer and Elizabeth’s story shows how a single act of giving can grow into a powerful family tradition that lifts burdens for families and creates lasting change. Their commitment reflects what’s possible when generosity becomes a legacy shared across generations. To inspire others to join them, the Smiths have generously offered to MATCH gifts made in the month of May up to $10,000! Don’t miss this chance to double your impact.
“Supporting RMHCA means you’re lifting burdens off families so they can focus on healing. That’s priceless.”
This Mother’s Day, honor the mothers and caregivers in your life by making a gift to RMHCA. Your support can provide comfort, community, and hope to families today and inspire the next generation of change makers.
Like the Smith’s, you can make a lasting impact. Give now to support RMHCA in providing essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare.
