Anyone at any age has the power to give back; to have a positive impact. Renfrew Collegiate Institute (RCI) students are no different.
They are not only dedicated to learning, but also to ensuring others have access to education. Newly diagnosed cancer patients have a dedicated space to source answers to their questions thanks to RCI students.
“The RCI Resource Room has proven to be invaluable for our patients. The Smart Board is used regularly for chemotherapy teaching sessions and specialist appointments. In addition, the space allows for privacy during hat and wig selection and houses quilts made for patients by dedicated community volunteers. We are very fortunate to benefit from RCI’s dedicated fundraising and commitment,” comments Rhonda Normandeau, Clinical Manager of RVH Oncology Unit.
The high school hosts a series of events annually in support of RVH and Relay for Life including a pancake breakfast, an awareness day, and the Bonnie Kerr Memorial Carnival.
This year’s Chair, Grade 11 student Makenna Moran, got involved because it’s fun to be at the fundraising events and it’s for such a good cause. She is proud to see the ‘RCI Resource Room’ plaque on the wall of the hospital’s main corridor.
“Patients will know the room is from all the hard work we did. It really makes a difference for a lot of people,” says Makenna, adding that in a small community everyone knows someone who has been affected by the disease.
RCI has reached the 80% mark of a five-year, $25,000-commitment.
Partnering with RVH during the largest expansion and redevelopment in its history, it was an easy decision for a number of reasons says Micheal Wright, RCI Teacher. “We can see the results of our support locally, we are helping people in our community.”
He also notes the number former RCI students employed by RVH. “There are a lot of RCI alumni at RVH so it’s a good fit and the school is giving back.”
Tags: