GERSTELL ACADEMY
LEADERSHIP • HONOR • COURAGE

Leadership in Action: Gerstell Academy Students Give Back at Ronald McDonald House of Maryland

On Friday, November 7, the officers of Falcon Outreach, Gerstell Academy’s Upper School community service and leadership club, took a special trip to Baltimore to visit the Ronald McDonald House of Maryland. This newly built facility, completed in 2019 to replace the original 1982 location, serves as a “home away from home” for children receiving intensive medical care at nearby hospitals. 

During their visit, Gerstell Academy students met with a Ronald McDonald House staff member and had the honor of presenting a check for $5,544.00 raised through the school’s Pediatric Cancer Awareness fundraiser earlier this fall. They also delivered more than 250 handmade cards created by Falcon Outreach members to encourage children and families staying at the House.  This meaningful service initiative was supported across the Gerstell community. The boys’ and girls’ soccer teams and the volleyball team hosted dedication games, where concessions and donations raised additional funds. The girls’ soccer team organized a pledge system based on goals scored throughout the season, and an all-school out-of-uniform “Gold Day” promoted pediatric cancer awareness while strengthening school spirit and participation. 

Falcon Outreach officers were treated to a tour of the Ronald McDonald House of Maryland, including the family welcome center, interactive play spaces, teen room, game room, serenity room, and the exciting “Magic Room.” They also visited the dining room and state-of-the-art kitchen that provides meals daily, and enjoyed time on the rooftop terrace featuring a peaceful water wall. 

This experience reflects Gerstell Academy’s commitment to leadership, service learning, and the values of compassion and community responsibility. The Falcon Outreach officers were inspired by the impact made possible through the Ronald McDonald House and the generosity of the Gerstell community. Thank you to everyone who supported the Pediatric Cancer Awareness fundraiser and helped make a difference for families in need! 
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