MEET OUR STAFF

Mrs. Jennifer Horne, Executive Director

Jennifer became familiar with the Ronald McDonald House when her niece, Kendall Crawford, was diagnosed with leukemia.  Kendall and her family often stayed in the Ronald McDonald House in Atlanta, GA while she received treatment and Jennifer realized how valuable the services of the Ronald McDonald House were to her and her family.  Jennifer began employment with the Ronald McDonald House in Columbus, GA six months prior to the completion of the construction project and was the House Manager when the Ronald McDonald House opened in December, 1994.  She is now the Executive Director and is responsible for financial reporting, fundraising, human resource management, compliance standards and the overall operations of the charity.

"I am so fortunate to work for a charity that is so near and dear to my heart.  Every day, I see strength in parents who are faced with their child's unexpected, traumatic diagnosis and I also witness the goodness in mankind with every volunteer, donor and visitor who walks through our door.  It is an incredible feeling to know that you have the ability to make a difference in someone's life, each and every day and I am so thankful to be a part of this wonderful organization."  Jennifer Horne

Ms. Susan Yaksh, Associate Director

Susan has been with the Ronald McDonald House since March, 1996 when she was employed as the Assistant House Manager and Volunteer Coordinator.  She is presently Associate Director, responsible for Fundraising, Grant Development and the Recycling Program.  Susan has been instrumental in developing our community and school Recycling Programs which are vital to our organization.  The Recycling Program creates awareness about the Ronald McDonald House and the families who are served, generates funds to offset operational expenses, and provides an avenue to get involved for those interested in recycling for the good of our environment. Susan’s favorite Aesop quote is: “No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.”

“I feel blessed to have befriended so many families who, because of their child’s illness or accident, have come to stay at the Ronald McDonald House. What a wonderful feeling it is to bond with them; to make them laugh when they want to cry, or to give them a hug when they are feeling overwhelmed.  I have also had the opportunity to meet some very caring and devoted volunteers who give of their time and/or talents to assist the staff as we extend that ‘hand of friendship’ to families in their greatest time of need.  I wish our donors could meet the families face-to-face so they could see and hear how grateful they are to those who support the charity.  As a mother of three sons and a grandmother to five healthy grandchildren, I appreciate how precious ‘good health’ is and feel honored to work here and to know I am making a difference!"  Susan Yaksh

Ms. Beth Mancini, Program Manager

Beth is a life-long resident of Columbus, GA, with two teenaged daughters.  In 2007, she found herself in the job market again.  Wanting to help others and make a difference in the lives of those going through a difficult time, Beth found herself on the steps of the Ronald McDonald House with a goal to do just that.  She was hired as the Program Manager, which includes being the House Manager and the Volunteer Coordinator.  Her primary duties include being the "face" of Ronald McDonald House Charities to families and guests, recruiting and scheduling volunteers, and assuring that all aspects of the House run smoothly and efficiently.  

"Not a day passes that I don't feel blessed as I walk out the door to go to my own home at the end of the day.  To know that a family received something they needed that day, be it a ride to the hospital or a simple hug, warms my heart and soul." Beth Mancini 

Ms. Annie Preer, Evening Manager

Annie joined the Ronald McDonald House staff as our Evening Manager in 2007.  She is responsible for providing a continuation of services to guests being referred to or families who are currently residing at the Ronald McDonald House.  Annie is a long-time resident of the Valley area and is the mother of a talented college-age athlete.  She has been a great addition to the Ronald McDonald House staff and guests and volunteers have enjoyed getting to know her.

"I enjoy meeting and talking with the families that come through the Ronald McDonald House.  Their appreciation for the Ronald McDonald House is shown by their words, gratitude and actions."  Annie Preer

Ms. Melody Singer, Resident Manager

Melody has always enjoyed reaching out to help others. She has been involved with outreach and missions most of her adult life. When she learned that a Ronald McDonald House was to be built in Columbus, she knew she wanted to be a part of it. She quickly signed on as a volunteer and has helped with fundraising, served as a shift volunteer, meals volunteer and weekend manager since the House opened in 1994. In 2006, she was given the opportunity to become the Resident Manager and found herself with the best “job” anyone could have. She has one grown daughter and resides full time at the House with Peaches, her toy poodle, who is delighted to share a cuddle with staff, volunteers, families and guests anytime they find themselves in need of a little "pick me up."

“I am so very blessed to be a part of something as wonderful as the Ronald McDonald House. While I thoroughly enjoy each and every mission trip I take part in, here at the House, I get to reach out to others every day. For me, it is not just a job, it truly is my home.”  Melody Singer

Ms. Eva Harvin, Housekeeper

"Miss Eva," as she is affectionately known, keeps the Ronald McDonald House in pristine condition.  She has been with the Ronald McDonald House since 2005 and we don't know what we would do without her!  In addition to her easy-going nature, she has a wonderful sense of humor and warmly interacts with the staff, guests and volunteers.  We are extremely lucky to have someone who is so dedicated to her work and everything she does makes our House look great!

"I'm so thankful and grateful for the opportunity to work at such a caring place.  The Ronald McDonald House does so much and shows so much love and affection to all.  When I leave my home every morning, I don't feel like I'm going to work; I feel like I'm going to visit friends.  The Ronald McDonald House is a home away from home for every family that comes through those front doors.  Whether it is for two days or two months, when you get to know the families, you miss them when they leave.  The Ronald McDonald House is truly people working together and loving one another!"  Eva Harvin