When your child is in the hospital, everything else fades into the background. The days feel long, the unknowns feel heavy, and even small moments of comfort matter. For Jennell, that was her reality in 2017 when her daughter Oakley needed surgery. At just six years old, Oakley was diagnosed with intestinal malrotation after months of unexplained illness and rapid weight loss. Her hospital stay was filled with stress and uncertainty, but in the middle of it, Jennell found unexpected support through Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho’s Hospitality Carts.
“They just kept her encouraged and happy,” Jennell shared. From crafts to small gifts to a favorite movie, those simple distractions helped Oakley focus on something other than pain. “It made the hospital stay very enjoyable for her.” Staffed by dedicated volunteers, the Hospitality Carts offer more than coffee, snacks, and activities. They provide relief during long days, helping children stay engaged and giving parents a moment to breathe without leaving their child’s side.
That experience left a lasting impression. Jennell saw how meaningful those moments were and knew she wanted to give back. She began volunteering behind the scenes at the House, then supported events like the Sporting Clays Tournament and J.R. Simplot Memorial Golf Tournament. In 2023, she joined the Red Shoe Committee, helping organize one of RMHC of Idaho’s annual gala which raised over $440,000 this year.
Jennell now helps with everything from decorating and gathering donations to cleanup at the Red Shoe Shindig. “It brings a lot of joy to me,” she said. “I love being able to see the families that it benefits.”
Her connection to the mission extends beyond her own experience. A close friend of Jennell’s developed preeclampsia and delivered her baby three months early, relying on the Ronald McDonald House for support during that time. “The House supported her and her husband,” Jennell shared. “I have seen the impact it has, even on people close to me.”
These experiences continue to shape Jennell’s commitment to giving back. She often brings her children to volunteer, helping them learn the importance of serving others. “It is important to give back,” she said. “There is a reward in helping other families.”
Whether she is running a station at Sporting Clays or stepping in wherever needed, Jennell shows up ready to help. Jennell tells others who are interested in volunteering: “Do it. You won’t regret it.” We are grateful for Jennell and the many volunteers who make this work possible. Join our volunteer family by clicking this link: https://www.rmhcidaho.org/get-involved/.
