Every March, the Library of Congress and six other government agencies, join together to commemorate the vital role of women in American history.
And because the LRAF is powered by women AND empowers women, we have aligned ourselves with this celebration.
So, this month, I’d like to pay tribute to the women of the Raspanti Family. Roe Raspanti, one of our Mothers Matter committee members, and her daughters Giovanna (age 18) and Gabriella (Gab, age 17), are like many families. They are busy! Besides their strong commitment to Mothers Matter, Roe works full time, and both girls are heavily involved in sports and are honor students.
But despite their full schedules, they have taken on the responsibility of our Mothers Matter monthly gift bag commitment to three Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms.
Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms are places for parents, siblings and extended family members of seriously ill and injured children to rest and relax while remaining close to their hospitalized child.
“Joining the Mothers Matter family has been an amazing experience for me and my daughters,” says Roe. “Working with the Ronald McDonald House and hopefully bringing a smile to a woman’s face during a difficult time brings great joy to our hearts. We are very blessed to be part of this amazing organization.”
Every month, the Raspanti Family prepares 75 special gift bags for moms whose babies are in the NICUs (Neonatal intensive care units) at Inspira in Vineland, Cooper University Hospital in Camden, and Virtua in Mt. Holly. That comes to 900 gift bags each year!
“Volunteering at Mothers Matter and making bags for Ronald McDonald House has been a big part of the last few years of my life,” says Giovanna. “This adventure at Mothers Matter has truly made me a better version of myself. I look forward to continuing my passion for helping others through this wonderful organization.”
Gab adds, “Being part of Mothers Matter has been an incredible journey for me. I have the pleasure of making bags for the moms at the Ronald McDonald House. It means a lot to be able to make someone else smile. I’m so glad to be part of such a great team.”
The special gift bags include a small journal or notepad, puzzle book, hand or body lotion, lipstick, nail polish, playing cards and similar practical and pampering items.
The LRAF and Mothers Matter welcome your time, participation and financial donations. As you might guess, our expenses cover much more than the beautiful products we put into our gift bags. Please consider a monetary gift or contact me at susanrose@laurenslegacy.org for more details on a company sponsorship. Simply click here to donate. Thank you!
With gratitude,
