Making a Difference: ADPI Spring Philanthropy Week 2026

As we approach our spring philanthropy week, we are excited to announce our 20th annual Cheers for Charity competition, bringing our community together for a night of excitement and love for Ronald McDonald House Charities! Not only are we inviting fellow registered student organizations to participate in our cheer competition, but we are working with our community to raise funds for our local RMH and the Alpha Delta Pi Foundation.

Founded on the simple belief that families belong together, Ronald McDonald House Charities is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families with children receiving medical treatment. Through programs like the Ronald McDonald House, these families are provided with a place to stay near hospitals at little to no cost, easing both financial and emotional burdens during some of the most challenging times in their lives. 

Alpha Delta Pi participates in this mission by raising money and hosting weekly Share-a-Meal visits, where seven members spend the evening making a fresh meal for the families staying there.

Beatriz "Bea" Cruz

For many families, this mission is not just meaningful, but life-changing. Our very own Beatriz Cruz knows this impact firsthand. When she was just 13 years old, her family stayed at a Ronald McDonald House while her younger brother was hospitalized after being born prematurely. “It quickly became more than just a roof over our heads; it became our support system…” says Bea.

“Because my parents do not speak English, I had to communicate with the staff, advocate for my mom, and help secure her a room after she was discharged while my brother was still hospitalized. The staff showed such compassion and determination, working extra hard to make sure we could stay close to him. Their kindness left a lasting impact on me" says Bea.

One of Bea’s most significant memories is hearing her mom rave about the volunteers who cooked meals every day. Now, Bea is able to give back in the same way by becoming one of those very volunteers.

Brynn McNeally and Sophia Ramirez

Our Director of Philanthropy, Brynn McNeally, has also developed a deep personal connection with RMHC. When asked why she ran for her position, she reveals that she was engaged in RMHC before college. “My involvement actually began in high school through a club called Philanthropy and Youth, where we visited and donated to nonprofits in our area. That’s when I first discovered RMHC and began volunteering through their Share-A-Meal program.”

“One time while I was volunteering, a mom came up to me with tears in her eyes and thanked us. She said her child had one of their hardest days yet, and coming back to RMHC without having to worry about cooking dinner was such a relief. That moment filled me with so much gratitude and reaffirmed why we do what we do”, says Brynn.

“Something I would like to say to someone who is considering supporting our events is that it will actually make an impact! By supporting RMH through our events, you can confidently say you have directly made an impact on the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida. Every dollar you donate, whether $10 or $10,000, can change a family’s life. Please consider supporting and making a difference in our community!”

Our lead-up event, Pizza with the Pi’s, will be on March 4th from 4-7pm at Lake Claire Pavilion. Pizza with the Pi’s will be catering Lazy moon pizza, an ice cream truck, a build-your-own bouquet stand, and a pop up jewelry stand. The Cheers for Charity competition is March 12th at 7pm at The Venue at UCF. If you’d like to support, we'd love to have you there!

Donate/purchase tickets here to help us reach our $50,000 goal!

Buy a shirt here! (70% of proceeds go to RMHC)