Ways to Give
Stronger Together
Across Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois, communities come together to help families stay together when a child is in the hospital. Hosting a fundraiser is one of the most rewarding ways to be part of that. Individuals, schools, businesses, and community groups support Ronald McDonald House in all kinds of ways, from bake sales and road races to a dare involving a beard (see the story below).
Whether you’re gathering neighbors for an in-person event, inviting friends and family to a peer-to-peer fundraiser, or organizing a collection drive for our House and Family Rooms, the event is yours to plan and run, and we’re here to guide you along the way.
Review the guidelines below, then send us your application to get started. Reach out to our development office with any questions at 319-500-7642 or development@ronaldmcdonaldhouseic.org.
The fundraiser that started with a dare
Beard Extravaganza
After their daughter Tatum was born with a rare heart condition, Cale and Jamie Henderson began a journey that brought them to the Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City. They quickly realized it takes an entire community to make an organization like Ronald McDonald House so impactful.
The Hendersons were inspired to do what they could to make sure the House would always be around to families who need it. Wondering what he could do to encourage his friends to contribute to the cause, Cale remembered how much they liked to tease him about his new beard. He told them: “If you want the beard gone, give me $20 and show up to this event.”
Fundraiser ideas
At work
A casual-dress day, a raffle, a coin jar on the front desk, a competition between departments.
In the community
A BBQ, a car wash, a bake sale, a trivia night, a dog wash. Or ask a restaurant about a dine-out night.
Facebook fundraisers
A Facebook fundraiser started from our page is the fastest route — the money comes straight to us, and there’s no application.
Collections instead of cash
Gift cards for gas, groceries and clothing. Or see our Wish Lists and Pop Tab Program pages for more.
Apply to host your fundraiser
Frequently asked questions about fundraising for Ronald McDonald House
Yes, you can find a variety of fundraising campaign ideas here.
Yes, once you’re approved. The logo is a registered trademark, so it can’t be used without written permission and it can’t be altered. We’ll send the files and a short guide once your event is approved.
Only if they make the contribution directly and entirely to Ronald McDonald House Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois. A gift routed through your organization first isn’t one we can receipt, and our tax exemption doesn’t extend to your event. Tell us before you promote anything and we’ll confirm what’s deductible and what will receive a receipt.
We’d love to be there! Our team is small, so if you’d like someone from our team to attend, just let us know. With enough notice, we’ll do our best to send a team member to celebrate with you and thank your guests.
Usually yes, as available: newsletters, brochures, fact sheets and small giveaway items. Ask when you apply.
Other ways to give
Donate Now
A single gift, or a set amount each month, in about a minute.
Sponsor a Meal
Cover the cost of one evening meal at the House.
Wish Lists
Help stock items the House and Family Rooms need right now.
Donate a Vehicle
Donate your old car and help keep families together.