By: Larry Boettcher
St. John's University

In what is quickly becoming a chapter tradition, the members and pledges of the Eta Mu Chapter at St. John's University, made a trip to the Ronald McDonald House at Long Island Jewish Hospital. This year turned out to be an even greater success than the previous year due to more charitable gifts and participants. An assortment of presents including games, dolls, action figures, and toy cars were among the more popular presents given to the children. It was a great sight watching all the kids open their presents with curiosity and excitement. It was even better watching them play and enjoy the gifts they received. Once all the presents were opened, we gathered in the family room and started playing with the children. The members and pledges began demonstrating how each toy and game worked so that everyone could join in and have fun. We were kept occupied as the children ran all over the room playing with their dolls, cars, and trucks. They were so energetic and excited about our visit that they were wearing us out.

After hours of playing football, tag, and video games, we all sat around the large Christmas tree just talking and learning more about each other. Many great aspirations were shared. Some of the children dreamed of becoming professional baseball and basketball players while others envisioned themselves as singers and actors. Although these young children were given an extreme disadvantage in life, it was reassuring to know that they planned to pursue and fulfill their dreams through strict determination and desire. They displayed a tremendous amount of maturity that was well beyond their years. I can tell that their parents were the motivating factors in their lives with all of the love and admiration they have for their child. We just hope our visit increased the hope in the heart of every child we interacted with that day. It was truly a special day of togetherness for the organization, the parents, and the children. It is that togetherness that defines this time of the year. Thanks for allowing us to share the holiday season with you.

Members and Pledges of the Eta Mu Chapter at the Ronald McDonald House at Long Island Jewish Hospital along with children we were lucky enough to meet