A Farewell Message from Outgoing CEO Ellen Carpenter

At RMHC West Michigan, our mission is to create a “home away from home” for families facing medical challenges. Navigating health issues, especially with children, can be an incredibly difficult journey. The dedication and compassion of our staff, Board, committees and volunteers makes a significant difference in the lives of those we serve, providing them with the strength and support they need during such challenging times.

Over the last five years, this team has advanced the RMH mission in new and lasting ways. Throughout the challenges posed by the COVID pandemic, the commitment allowed us to serve families with innovative processes and services that prioritized safety. The complete makeover of our existing rooms—featuring new furniture, flooring, paint, and TVs—has truly transformed our space into a welcoming environment. Our successful capital campaign enabled us to renovate an existing space to add more rooms and significantly improve the family kitchen while also adding a new volunteer kitchen. This expansion allows the Ronald McDonald House to help even more families with hospitalized children—and to keep all services free! Together, we’ve added hope and healing to those in need during such trying times.

As I celebrate this milestone and approach retirement, my heart is full of gratitude. To everyone who has supported RMHC West Michigan, thank you for your dedication and passion—you make this organization a truly special place. Because of you, we can continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of so many families.

I have the utmost confidence in Salina Bishop’s leadership as she assumes the role of CEO. Her dedication, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to our mission position RMHC West Michigan for continued growth and success in the years ahead. I am excited to watch RMHC grow and expand its impact. With our community’s investment in building world-class pediatric healthcare, the demand for family support will only increase, highlighting how essential RMHC is to the healthcare continuum. Together, we are ensuring the best care for children and their families.

With gratitude,

Ellen Carpenter