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A Labor of Love – Social Impact Report 2018-19

project and helped close the final
pieces of the buildings finances.
“I am blown away by what the
house has become,” Eriksson
beams. “I’m beyond excited that
this structure will reflect the level
of caring the staff brings to our
Ronald McDonald families every
day.” The new Asquith Street
building will increase RMH’s
capacity to serve those in need of
its services, with the potential of
housing up to 55 families at one
time. Guests are slated to move
in beginning in the spring.

The ties that bind the firm’s
labor group and RMH run deep;
Kathie Pontone, a principal
in the practice, was the first
representative of the firm to
serve on the organization’s Foundation, its philanthropic of some sort, whether it be a even more connections of
board—and did so with esteem wing. And the entire labor game like bingo or some other synergy with each other, as well
for many years. Collectively, team has come together to adventure.” These nights serve a as with the guests. Decker nods.
the firm’s principals have also support the organization and its dual purpose—to provide a warm “It’s grounding—it makes it very
provided support over the years initiatives. “It’s a great touchstone meal, yes, but also to provide easy to put yourself in another’s
through the Miles & Stockbridge for our whole group,” asserts a respite from the storm that shoes in real time.”
Decker. “We are a close-knit envelopes everyone in a family
group to begin with, but our when a child becomes seriously The group also participates
work with Ronald McDonald ill. According to Decker, one of in the organization’s annual Red
House—and the satisfaction we the best feelings comes from Shoe Shuffle, a 5k run and walk
all get from it—takes it to a whole knowing that she’s helping “create fundraiser by which individuals
different level.” normalcy in the most abnormal and teams can support RMH.
of circumstances.”
Another successful dinner On several occasions, the The team is already looking
(Italian Night) at the Ronald group has come together to “What’s so powerful,” Eriksson ahead to the next volunteering
McDonald House! Miles serve dinner to families in the agrees, “is the immediacy of the opportunity—and are excited
& Stockbridge's labor & house. “It started innocently impact. You are right there with that it will be scheduled in the
employment team has enough with pasta,” recalls these families, and it really puts new facility. “When you walk
routinely volunteered their Eriksson, “but overachievers that a face to what you are doing through the space, you’re struck
time at the Ronald McDonald we are, it quickly escalated to and why you are doing it.” Team by its brightness,” Eriksson notes.
House located on Lexington more elaborate theme nights. members have also brought their “It’s hope and joy that emanates
from those walls.” ■
Street in Baltimore. We also try to include an activity children to such dinners, forming

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