25 Mar VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Alicia and Natalie have been volunteering together at the Ronald McDonald House since late 2021. Having some connection through a coworker, Alicia attended a virtual volunteer orientation, eager and excited to share her talents. Despite the remote connection, her vibrant personality shone through, and it wasn’t long before Alicia’s heart was hooked.

Alicia’s love for cooking spurred her to join on as a dinner volunteer, helping prepare, cook, and serve meals to the families once a week. Being the designated “head” cook for her family, she’s experienced and confident in the kitchen. “Cooking at RMHC-NM may seem intimidating, but it’s just like cooking for your family.” She wields this confidence well, employing her natural talent for organization and efficiency with each meal.

Her daughter, Natalie, came on board after Alicia joined our volunteer team. She loves baking and is as familiar with the kitchen as her mother. As a mother-daughter team, it’s a double-sided benefit. Both experience volunteering together, helping others, and participating in a great mission. They have a significant part in providing the comfort and care families need while fulfilling their joy and satisfaction in playing that part. They also reap the pleasure of spending uninterrupted, quality time together.

Alicia is proud to see her daughter engage in a passion for helping others. She’s happy to see Natalie maturing, taking the initiative, and growing in confidence. Natalie’s grown in appreciation for her own life and blessings. Beyond that, she has found satisfaction in volunteering and offering her abilities and time to someone else.

These ladies love being in the kitchen and cooking. It’s a pastime for their family, and having the chance to share part of their hearts in this way means so much to them. As Natalie says, “making the food with love” is important.

Alicia’s piece of encouragement to others interested in giving back is, “Just do it. Volunteering your time makes such an impact on so many others.”

We love when they’re in the kitchen and look forward to many more delicious meals prepared for our families.