Remembering Jeanne Riegel: A Legacy of Love and Service

In the earliest days of Ronald McDonald House New York, before there were playrooms and family suites, volunteer teams and even before East 73rd street, there was Jeanne Riegel. Around the House, she is just known as Jeannie.

Jeannie wasn’t just one of our inaugural volunteers, she was RMH-NY's very first volunteer coordinator. A warm spirit with a servant's heart, Jeannie joined the House after seeing a call for help from the Volunteer Referral Service in the early 1980s. At the time, the House operated out of two townhouses on East 86th Street with only 24 rooms and a handful of staff. But where others saw limitations, Jeannie saw opportunity.

She and her close friend Mary Lambert took the initiative and began organizing games and face painting for the children, offering moments of joy in the midst of unimaginable challenges. Jeannie didn’t come for recognition. She came because she believed in showing up for families when it mattered most.

Jeannie and Mary Lambert during a weekly 'Coffee and Cookies' event.

As the House grew, so did her commitment. Jeannie created and led some of our very first family programming, including the now-beloved "Coffee and Cookies" afternoons, a simple but powerful idea that brought parents together in comfort, solidarity, and support. For many caregivers facing the toughest days of their lives, Jeannie's smile and listening ear became part of their healing journey.

In 2011, Jeannie was honored with the Hope Award, recognizing over 25 years of exceptional service to our mission. But she would have told you her greatest reward came from the friendships she made and the laughter she shared with our families. She remained a constant presence at the House for four decades, serving lemonade and encouragement with equal measure.

2011 Hope Award Recipients with Former RMH-NY CEO William T. Sullivan

Jeannie Riegel recently passed away. We are deeply saddened to say goodbye to Jeannie, but her spirit continues to live on in the halls of our House, in the volunteer programs she helped create and shape, and in the thousands of families she touched.

It is impossible to tell the story of Ronald McDonald House New York without honoring the legacy of Jeannie Riegel. Her life reminds us that impact isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s a gentle hand, a shared cookie, or a kind word.

We invite you to make a gift in her honor today. Your donation supports the volunteer-led programs Jeannie cherished most and ensures that her legacy of compassion endures for generations to come.

Jeannie Riegel, Ronald McDonald House New York's first volunteer sits in front of a drinks cart ready to serve with compassionate care.Donate in Memory of Jeanne Riegel


Donate in Memory of Jeanne Riegel

Your donation supports the Ronald McDonald House New York, including efforts like the volunteer-led programs Jeanne cherished most and ensures that her legacy of compassion endures for generations to come.
Donate

Read News Post

A Day in the Life of an RMH-NY Hospitality Cart

A Day in the Life of an RMH-NY Hospitality Cart

Hi. I’m a Hospitality Cart at Ronald McDonald House New York. Come spend the day with me to see how Ronald McDonald House New York utilizes me to offer a moment of compassionate care to caregivers and families in local hospitals. And remind me to tell you the one about the goldfish shortage.

Learn MoreA Day in the Life of an RMH-NY Hospitality Cart
Ronald McDonald House New York's youth Advisory Council pose for a picture at the Youth 4 youth Social where all proceeds went to the House.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Inside the Youth Advisory Council at Ronald McDonald House New York

For teenagers in New York City who want to make a real difference, volunteering can be more than just community service hours—it can be a transformational experience. The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) at Ronald McDonald House New York offers one of the most meaningful and hands-on opportunities for high school students to grow as compassionate leaders, fundraisers, and changemakers.

Learn MoreEmpowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Inside the Youth Advisory Council at Ronald McDonald House New York
Neil B loomgarden holding up a bike at the end of the 5 Boro Bike Tour riding for Ronald McDonald House New York

My Soul Just Went Through the Car Wash

Every Tuesday evening, almost like clockwork, Neil walks through the doors of Ronald McDonald House New York after a long day of work with a simple mission: help families with children battling pediatric cancer and other life-threatening illnesses breathe a little easier.

Learn MoreMy Soul Just Went Through the Car Wash
Ronald McDonald House New York Turns 45 in 2024

Ronald McDonald House New York Turns 45 in 2024

Older, Wiser, and Still Throwing the Best Parties Take a look at the video year in review above to catch all of the biggest highlights of 2024! ...
Learn MoreRonald McDonald House New York Turns 45 in 2024
A Year of Gratitude: Celebrating Volunteers Who Make RMH-NY a Home

A Year of Gratitude: Celebrating Volunteers Who Make RMH-NY a Home

These volunteers, coming from all walks of life, embody the heart and soul of RMH-NY. Whether lending a hand in our East 73rd Street House, brightening hospital family rooms, or offering their professional expertise, their contributions are invaluable. This year, as we reflect on their impact...
Learn MoreA Year of Gratitude: Celebrating Volunteers Who Make RMH-NY a Home