It all started with the RBC Running Weekend back in October when a determined group of fitness fanatics from Equities and Research pledged to run the thirteen-mile Royal Parks Half to raise money for RMH Evelina, the UK’s newest Ronald McDonald House. Fast forward to December 13 where some of those very runners, accompanied by sport-crazy Leo the Lion, called in at the 59-bedroom facility to make two important deliveries. One, a delicious grilled chicken dinner for the families staying at Evelina, a thousand of which have passed through its doors since opening in early 2017, and two, a cheque for over £40,000.
Graeme Pearson, RBC’s European Head of Equities congratulated Jon Haward, the Charity’s Executive Director in the UK, on the world-class facilities provided by Evelina and the positive impact these would have on families with sick children passing through its doors. RBC volunteers have been visiting RMH’s London properties for over two years to provide hot meals and a little cheer. Jordan Lorch, a Director within RBC’s Client Management division developed the relationship with the charity. Originating from a simple desire to ‘put something back’, the relationship is now one which is cherished throughout London’s Equities team and beyond. It is perhaps one of the few truly global charity partnerships. Commendably, it has a structured and highly committed volunteering movement around it too. In February 2017, RBC donated £150,000 to RMH at RBC Trade for the Kids when RMH representatives and families first set foot on the London trading floor to share their stories with hundreds of RBC Capital Markets staff – and to meet Leo.
Jon and Evelina House Manager Richard Francis thanked RBC for their ongoing support and unveiled a plaque to mark the new Royal Bank of Canada Roof Terrace. Leo, lured to the dining area by the aroma of grilled chicken, handed out Christmas crackers and festive treats to some of Evelina’s younger residents. According to residents of all ages, Leo’s first visit to RMH Evelina was a roaring success!
