A Part of the McDonalds Family

After working at McDonalds for 3 years and witnessing the magic of McHappy Day, Zizo was inspired to continue working with his McDonalds family by volunteering with RMHC Ottawa.

His time in the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at CHEO has been coloured by Sunday sports updates with moms and dads, filling coffee cups for caregivers and Holiday moments spent decorating the Christmas tree with the little ones who visit the Family Room. A special time to volunteer for him is during the Holidays, slowing down for a minute to help others during a time that can often be quite busy with one’s own engagements and holiday gatherings.

“Giving 4 hours of my Holiday time is the least I can do, I always try to volunteer on the Holidays.”

In the year that Zizo has spent volunteering with RMHC Ottawa, he has been able to develop relationships with families by remembering a favourite sports team or offering a listening ear if someone is wanting to chat about their day. He says that it is the ‘good news moments’ that really stick with him and he remembers many occasions of celebratory smiles and tears of joy shared with family members who have ben supporting children through treatment.

“After leaving my job at McDonalds, I wanted to give back by volunteering directly with the charity and taking part in the positive experience that so many of our guests brought up on McHappy day. It’s been a decision I have never once regret.”

Zizo volunteers for fun, because developing relationships and taking breaks with families has left a positive lasting impact on him, just as he has left a lasting impression on all of us here at RMHC Ottawa.

Thank you for volunteering in our Family Rooms offering comfort to families as they care for their child at CHEO.