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One of the Most Rewarding Jobs Around

Ronald McDonald Houses don’t just run by themselves.

They take a dedicated staff, an army of volunteers, and a leader – someone constantly making sure the program runs smoothly and operates with compassionate care. That leader is a House Manager.

And in Memphis, Tennessee, that Manager is Sherri Bushong-Maxey. Sherri oversees the operations of the recently renovated 51-bedroom Ronald McDonald House next to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The House in Memphis provides support and vital resources for children being treated for cancer and their families. On average, these families stay at the House around 90 days, much longer than the average stay at most Ronald McDonald Houses because of the unique illnesses of children getting treatment at St. Jude’s.

Sherri oversees a 64,000 square foot house, 13-acres of land, a 17-person staff, volunteers, families, a tightly balanced operational budget of $2 million annually, and in the past three years, a massive $1.2 million renovation to the House, where she basically became a construction foreman. “The first item of business everyday though is checking in families,” says Sherri. “I like to give them a tour of the house, welcome them to our community, and make sure they know exactly where my office is located.”

Sherri began working at the Ronald McDonald House in Memphis as a volunteer 20 years ago. And in 2000, after joining the staff full-time, helping the House through its expansion, fundraising for the House, and taking on a weekend manager role, she became the House Manager.

Outside of the day-to-day operations of the House, it’s the moments spent with children and families that have really make Sherri’s experience as a House manager so special. “It’s the universal language of laughter echoing through the hallways; it’s the families stopping into my office as they head to the hospital for the day; it’s the comfort I can provide by just lending an ear; and it’s those moments when a child curls up in my lap to tell me a story, or play Angry Birds on my phone, or just be with a familiar friend.”

Sherri recalls a particular boy that loved coming to her office. “He was staying at the House with his Dad. His mother had never been very involved in his life. He would peddle down the hallway on his tricycle to see me, rush in and jump into my lap. He would just lie there and look up at me and feel comforted. He passed away three years ago, and his Dad still calls me once a month to check up on me and on the House.”

“Some of my friends ask me how I do it? Isn’t it sad, Sherri? I tell them it’s really not sad at all. That every day, we have the most fun we can have while we are here.”

I love my job. And I love that the username on my computer is, ‘Housemama.’ It’s not often we are given the opportunity to do something we are passionate about. I have been given that opportunity on a daily basis, and if I could do it for free I would.”

What’s a day in the life of a House Mom like? It’s full. And it’s tough. But it’s one of the most rewarding jobs around. To the more than 314 House Managers out there, including Sherri, thank you so much for your invaluable commitment to helping children and families find strength in numbers.

Comments (3)|(Hide)

  • Ashley Sanders

    29/03/2012 10:10am

    I just wanted to say thank you..I know my family couldn't have made it through such a difficult time in our lives if hadn't have been for You and all you do! When you have a loved one sick it's comforting to know there's a place such as this to stay near by their side! I spent made lots more memories with my lil sister my best friend bc there was such a place for me to stay & know I'm just arms reach away if needed! A lot of the best & funniest memories I have in my heart are at ACH & Ronald McDonald house...keep doin what u do bc you are making a difference in lives everyday weather u know it or not! I was 17 when last stayed at Ronald McDonald but my age didn't keep me from remembering those who fought w us! Your job is a rewarding job that touches the heart on every level..I hope you are rewarded for your hand/heart! Thank you on behalf of a past patient family member tenant...lol WE LOVE ALL U DO!!

  • Bonnie

    09/03/2012 9:27am

    It takes a special person with a huge heart to do the work Sherri does. Ronald McDonald House is so lucky to have her - A terrific woman and a great Housemama!!!

  • Angle Giannini

    02/03/2012 10:52pm

    I know Sherri personally, and she is a beautiful person outside of work as well! Not only does she love children, but she has a huge place I'm her heart for dogs and cats. I'm honored to be a friend of hers!

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