09 Apr Ronald McDonald House Volunteer Spotlight: Jenna Englund

Jenna Englund is one of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho’s amazing community and corporate volunteers. Jenna was inspired to begin volunteering at the House because she and her family stayed at an RMHC House in Las Vegas. In 2011, when Jenna’s daughter was born, they had to fly to Las Vegas for her to undergo heart surgery. Jenna and her family stayed at the Las Vegas House for a little over 6 months. She expressed her gratitude for RMHC, and shared how it was a huge help to her family that they gave them food and a place to stay after being exhausted all the time. Once Jenna’s family got settled back in Boise, they started volunteering at the House by making meals as a family. Additionally, Jenna, the president of the Berkeley Building Co., has spearheaded her company’s involvement in volunteering at the RMHC of Idaho House through their giving back committee.

Jenna has actively volunteered at the House both individually and through her company, engaging in a variety of activities. Jenna has prepared several meals for the House with her family and student organizations, and she is always willing to complete any other tasks needed while volunteering. Berkeley Building Co. donated the picnic area at the House, sponsors the RMHC Happy Wheels Hospitality Carts in local hospitals, and is a sponsor of the Red Shoe Shindig as well.

Jenna reflected on her first time volunteering with her family after staying at a RMHC herself. She explained how meaningful it was to connect with families who were facing difficult situations like she once had. Unfortunately, Jenna’s daughter did pass away about two and a half years ago but connecting with others and volunteering is the best way for her to preserve her memory. Jenna expressed how volunteering gives her purpose and keeps her going! Jenna shared her biggest piece of advice to volunteers, which is to be invested and know the difference you are making to the people staying at the House. She also says, “Just do what you can to make their day a little brighter in their hardest time.”

The Ronald McDonald Charities of Idaho is so appreciative of all the time Jenna, her family, and the Berkeley Building Co. has contributed volunteering over the last 10+ years. Volunteers like Jenna make the House such a special place!