Bob and Anne Rothenberg Dedicate Two Decades to Ronald McDonald House Charities of New England

Bob and Anne Rothenberg have dedicated over 20 years to Ronald McDonald House Charities New England (RMHCNE), evolving a holiday volunteer effort into a lifelong commitment. RMHCNE provides a home away from home for families with seriously ill children undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals. Their journey began with a simple idea: volunteering on Thanksgiving. "We always hosted a group at our house for Thanksgiving, and one year we thought, 'Why not volunteer instead?'" Anne recalls. Among the organizations needing help, RMHCNE stood out, and the couple quickly became integral to its operations, even occasionally serving as relief managers.

Through their experiences at RMHCNE, Bob and Anne recognized the profound impact the Ronald McDonald House has on families with sick children. "It's hard to explain this place to outsiders," Bob notes. "Many people think it's like a homeless shelter, but it's more of a home away from home." The Ronald McDonald House offers families not just a place to stay but also meals, laundry facilities, and, most importantly, a supportive community during incredibly challenging times.

Drawing on their background in coaching track and field at Brown University, the Rothenbergs founded a running club 18 years ago, initially expecting 30 to 40 participants. "In the first two years, we had 110 people, and now we average around 300 members every year," Bob proudly shares. The Ronald McDonald House of Providence (RMHP) Running Club has become a diverse community where members of all ages and abilities come together, not just to train but to give back. Membership fees cover the cost of renting training facilities, while all coaches, including Bob and Anne, volunteer their time.

The RMHP Running Club has since become a vital supporter of RMHCNE, playing a key role in planning and executing the Women’s Classic, now in its 16th year. This event features the HIGHBAR Physical Therapy Women’s Classic 5K road race and the Cardi’s Furniture & Mattresses 3K Walk. "When walks began to lose enthusiasm, I thought, 'What could we do instead? The idea came up – why not have a race? A 5K run, 3K walk, just for women,'" Anne recalls. The event has blossomed into an annual tradition, featuring a women’s race, a children’s festival, and a health and wellness fair, with all proceeds benefiting RMHCNE.

As race day approaches, the Rothenbergs remain focused on the bigger picture: ensuring RMHCNE continues to be a place of refuge and hope for families in need. When runners cross the finish line at Brown Stadium, they will be part of a mission that goes beyond fitness, embodying the spirit of giving back that the Rothenbergs have championed for over two decades. For more information on how to get involved with Ronald McDonald House Charities New England or to learn about the RMH Providence Classic, visit RMHProvidenceClassic.org.