This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Elaine Shepard about the upcoming Ronald McDonald House of Scranton Charity Golf Classic.
Residence: Clarks Summit
Professional background: Realtor with Classic Properties
Title: Co-chairwoman of the golf tournament
Q: What is the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton’s mission?
A: (It aims) to ease the hardship of illness on families through programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.
Q: Who is the golf tournament open to?
A: We have encouraged our community to come and be a part of a wonderful cause by being a sponsor, providing a raffle prize or golfing at this amazing event. It is open to individuals, families and businesses from all over our region.
Q: What else will be on hand at the event?
A: There will be a lunch, dinner, awards, raffles, a goodie bag and more.
Q: How will proceeds be used?
A: One-hundred percent of all the profits will stay right here in Northeastern Pennsylvania benefiting our local Ronald McDonald House, which provides a home away from home for families of seriously ill and injured children. The proceeds will be used to keep families close to their children, providing for all their needs 100% free of charge.
Q: How can you donate if you cannot attend?
A: There are lots of ways to help the mission. You can call the house at 570-969-8998 or visit RmhScranton.org to get started. There is a detailed list of ways to help on our website, ranging from event support and personal donations to leaving a legacy with planned giving. The easiest way would be to make a monetary donation or to provide a vital item from the wish list. Folks can even work together and have a wish list drive or do a fundraiser in the workplace or home.
Q: Why is community support crucial?
A: We believe that it truly takes a community to be able to rise above the struggles of life. When you see the difficulties that families are facing with a pediatric illness, they can be overwhelming. That being said, the mission is supported entirely by our community through donations, events and grants. The house does not receive any government funding for its programs. Without the support of our community, this vital work could never be accomplished.
Laura Rysz is the features copy editor and calendar editor at The Times-Tribune and runs the Talk of the Times column, which focuses on local fundraisers and other events. She also writes Chef’s Table that profiles restaurants around the region. Additionally, Laura curates events online on AccessNEPA.com. Laura is involved in the special Mother’s Day edition and curates occasional features Marry Memories and Times Travelers. She is a graduate of Haddonfield Memorial High School, New Jersey, and earned an English professional writing degree with a minor in mass communications from King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. She also earned a certificate in Social Media Marketing from Rutgers Business School. Contact: lrysz@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5228.
