Volunteer Spotlight
Delivering Mail and Dedication
In 2008, while the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House was undergoing construction on a second location at Front & Erie in North Philadelphia, Janice Lawinski was waiting in anticipation for the outcome. “I was delivering the mail around the neighborhood and sometimes I would just sit and watch it being built,” Janice says. Janice has been a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Services for over 22 years. “When I received mail to deliver there, I asked Carolann [the House manager at the Front & Erie House] about the organization and it really interested me.”
It was from that day that Janice knew she had to get involved.
Since the opening of Front & Erie Janice has been a dedicated volunteer. While still working as a mail carrier, Janice volunteers every Thursday night and is also as a part-time weekend Manager. “If there’s something going on Thursday, whether with my friends or family, I just say sorry I have to volunteer.” She responded when asked about managing her time.
Janice’s duties at the House range from checking families in to helping out with the kitchen and she’s more than happy to help any other ways that she can. “You know when children have huge smiles on their faces Christmas morning; it’s kind of like that. It’s just a good feeling.” she says of volunteering.
No matter how long her day feels, Janice is always motivated when she’s at the House. She believes working there puts things back into perspective. “I always say that the only person who loves their job is Oprah! But when I go to the House, it’s like a totally different world,” she says of the volunteer experience. Janice has also made a lot of new friends throughout the years and is thankful for the other volunteers who dedicate their time to the House. “It’s a pleasure to go in and work with these types of people,” she raves.
Janice hopes her story will inspire others to volunteer. When asked about advice for potential volunteers, she mentions that even the simplest things could have a huge impact. “Give it a try,” she says. “It might change your attitude towards life!”
Find out about volunteer opportunities at the House that may be right for you!
