HAMILTON, ON – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. Local Hamilton firefighter, Jim Barclay, has won a special volunteer appreciation award for his work with Ronald McDonald House Hamilton (RMHH) as the “Meals that Heal” Dinner  Jim works in the new culinary kitchen at RMHH with Chef Shawn Rocchi, as a ‘second in command’ to prepare, cook and serve meals to families staying at the House. Jim also assists staff and other volunteers in meals-related events and special occasions for RMHH.

Jim is a local firefighter who loves to cook both at home and at the fire station. While he has a full-time job and a very busy family life, Jim finds time throughout the week to give back. Since joining RMHH on July 3, 2012 Jim has worked 210 volunteer hours, an unprecedented number of hours in seven months for any volunteer within this timeframe – let alone someone with a demanding career and engaged family life.  “Jim demonstrates a selfless commitment to RMHH and is genuinely interested in contributing his time and efforts to help us collectively fulfill our mission. He is a representation of what true community service means and we are better House for having the privilege to learn and work alongside him,” says Chantell Tunney, Executive Director at RMHH.

The award comes from the national charity, Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada, as part of a volunteer appreciation pilot program. Through the generosity of a Ronald McDonald House supporter, Jim has won a ski trip for two to Mont Tremblant with accommodations at the Fairmont Chateau Tremblant.

“As a local Hamilton firefighter his story, commitment, compassion and caring in life, in work and at Ronald McDonald House Hamilton is truly wonderful. Congratulations to Jim for making a difference with his life through his contributions to RMH Hamilton,” said Cathy Loblaw, President & CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Canada.

About Ronald McDonald House Hamilton Ronald McDonald House Hamilton (RMHH) serves as a regional resource for hundreds of families of critically-ill children who are being treated at Hamilton hospitals. RMHH has recently expanded from a 15 bedroom home to a 40 bedroom House and reopened in the spring of 2012 to serve more families in their time of need. RMHH strives to provide families in crisis a home to everyday moments when life is far from ordinary. www.rmhhamilton.ca

The Executive Committee on behalf of the entire Membership congratulates Jim on this well deserved award.  We are proud to work alongside of you. 

Fraternally, Executive Committee

2013 Medal Ceremony
2013 Charity Ball