Helping To Renovate Ronald McDonald House Has Been a Labor of Love for NYC/LI NARI Members
The NYC/LI Chapter of the National Remodeling Association is so proud to once again be participating in the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island’s Project Design – – a two-phase project aimed at a complete revamping of the 26-year old facility, which serves more than 1000 families per year. The goal of the project was to bring together leaders from the interior design industry and local remodeling firms to provide solutions that would make the House more homelike, inviting and cheerful for the families staying there.
“Project Design would be impossible without the help and generosity of NARI,” said Jennifer Nicholson, Director of Special Projects at Ronald McDonald House. “They have been here through every step of our renovation – morning, day, night, weekends. We cannot thank them enough,” she continued.
The first phase of the project, which was completed in the summer of 2013, transformed 18 bedrooms, kitchen areas, laundry areas and several common areas in the House. NARI’s team of volunteers spent hundreds of hours installing laminate flooring, painting rooms and completing the molding and trim work during this phase. The second phase of the project added 24 bedrooms, four kitchens, five common areas and laundry rooms, and the creation of a brand-new fitness center and meditation room.
NARI’s participation allowed members along with their families, friends and associates to come together to help people in our community. “Like Ronald McDonald House, who had designers queuing up to participate in this project, I have had many members approach me wanting to help with Phase II,” said Laurence Carolan, Community Service Chairman of NYC/LI NARI. “I believe one of the reasons this project is so dear to NARI’s collective heart is because so many of us know someone who has been served by this great organization,” he continued.
The Project Design renovation initiative helped the Ronald McDonald House move away from the institutional facility it was to a bright, cheerful environment that recreates a feeling of home. Some rooms boast bright, primary colors, while others offer softer, floral hues. From sports-themed areas to rooms fit for a princess, all designs were created with one goal in mind – to make the stay of families using the Ronald McDonald House facilities a more pleasant one.
“It is a true honor to have NARI as a Project Design partner,” said Matthew Campo, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House of Long Island. “Their professionalism and quality workmanship are commendable and we are appreciative of their dedication to our mission and this initiative to benefit the families we serve.”