PHOENIX (June XX, 2025) – Thunderbirds Charities stepped up when help was needed most, to close the gap in a $2.7 million project to completely renovate the Dobson House facility operated by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona (RMHCCNAZ).

The 16-room Dobson House, providing lodging and meals to families with hospitalized children at no cost, is located on the campus of Banner Children’s at Desert.

Currently closed since April, renovation work to fully transform the Dobson House interior is expected to be completed this fall.

“We were just about $279,000 short for funding the total renovation,” said Kerry Schulman, Chief Executive Officer of RMHCCNAZ. “And this generous grant from the Thunderbirds brought the project to completion in terms of the funds needed to finish the project. Our Board, staff and especially the families who stay at Dobson House want to express sincere gratitude to Thunderbirds Charities for this significant grant and all they do to support our community,” Schulman added.

Originally opened in 2014, the Dobson House is the third Valley location of RMHCCNAZ. It provides families with amenities including a shared kitchen, dining area, library and play space, two laundry facilities, a shaded playground and free Wi-Fi. Accommodation is provided to families who live at least 30 miles away from where their child is receiving hospital care.

More than 438 families stayed at Dobson House in 2024, accounting for more than 4,000 nights of stay and an average length of stay of nine nights.

“To acknowledge this major gift, we will be naming the newly updated family-living area the Thunderbirds Charities Family Room, which is a joyful, calming space where children can play and families can relax together,” Schulman said.

The Thunderbirds have a rich history with RMHCCNAZ, and this grant is the latest act of support for the organization. “We are honored to assist Ronald McDonald House Charities with renovations at Dobson House to provide a safe and welcoming place for vulnerable families that have a child with a critical medical condition,” said Matt Mooney, president of Thunderbird Charities. “This House will relieve added stress to many families for years to come,” he added.

The total renovation will include a fully transformed main entryway and reception area. New cabinetry, durable countertops, high-traffic flooring, upgraded lighting, modern faucets and sinks, fresh paint and new artwork will highlight the community kitchen. It will also feature new industrial refrigerators, freezers, stovetops, ovens, microwaves and dishwashers to serve the needs of up to 16 families per day.

All guest rooms and bathrooms will receive new furniture and fixtures, to create a cozy, updated environment that feels like home. And a newly redesigned dining room will provide a comfortable and supportive place for families to share meals and connect.

While the Dobson House is temporarily closed, families in need of housing are being provided rooms at one of the two other RMHCCNAZ Phoenix-area locations, Roanoke House in central Phoenix and Cambridge House on the campus of Phoenix Children’s – Thomas Campus in Phoenix. When necessary, arrangements will be made with hotels near the Dobson House to host families so that no family will be turned away.

For updates on the renovation and reopening, or to support the mission of RMHCCNAZ, visit rmhccnaz.org.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona (RMHCCNAZ).

This grant is part of the Spring 2025 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.