RMH

At Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Toronto, Kevin Hulbert is often playfully referred to as the “face” of the organization. While said in jest, there is truth in his title. In his role coordinating the Home For Dinner program, he’s become well-known and well-liked by families and donors alike.

Kevin became a full-time staff member in July 2014, but he developed  his passion for RMHC Toronto years before.

“I knew I wanted to work at the House from the moment I started volunteering here,” he says.

In spring of 2011, Kevin was looking for opportunities to work with children and families following his decision not to pursue a teaching career. At the suggestion of a friend, he began volunteering at RMHC Toronto with the creative arts program.

“What struck me initially was what a supportive environment this is,” says Kevin. “One night I was chatting with a teenage girl who’d just had a heart transplant. Another girl of a similar age was standing nearby. She was quite shy and kept to herself, but all of a sudden she spoke up and told us that she too needed a heart transplant. The girls started talking and sharing their fears and advice while I just listened in awe. It was powerful to see how kids can be so strong and how this House can bring people together under such difficult circumstances.”

Kevin dedicated himself to making an impression at RMHC Toronto, hoping it would it lead to a more permanent role. He took on various volunteer positions, doing everything from washing dishes to selling 50/50 tickets at Blue Jays games. When a position facilitating the House’s food program became available, he was hired.  

A major part of Kevin’s role is coordinating Home For Dinner, a program that invites corporate and volunteer groups to make dinner for families staying at the House. When Home For Dinner groups arrive at the House, they’re welcomed by Kevin’s friendly smile and trademark humour. Though he’s become a seasoned pro at playing tour guide and chatting with corporate donors, that part of the job did not come naturally to him.

“When I first started speaking to groups, I would get really nervous,” he says.  “Now it’s become something I enjoy. Interacting with so many different people has had a huge impact on my confidence. It’s changed my life, really.”

Kevin’s life has also been changed by the many families he’s met during his time here. Though he considers himself lucky to get to help them during such trying times, many families feel equally as lucky to get to know him.

“Kevin is an unforgettable person,” says Fauzia Amin. Fauzia stayed at the House with her husband and two young sons for almost a year. “He is so professional, yet so considerate. Both of my sons consider him their best friend. He interacted with them at their level, so they thought he was one of them. He made us feel so welcome and made dinner a time to look forward to.”

Now the “face” of RMHC Toronto, Kevin has become an incredible ambassador for the organization. As an aspiring teacher growing up in rural Manitoba, he never thought he’d one day spend his nights checking meat temperatures and telling corporate executives about the impact of a “home away from home” for seriously ill children. But he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I get to help people help other people. What better way is there to spend my time?”