COLUMBUS, Ohio — When a child is hospitalized for an extended period, families face numerous challenges. However, the Ronald McDonald House in central Ohio provides a comforting solution: a place to stay within walking distance of the hospital.

Much of the organization's success can be attributed to the dedication of its volunteers.

What You Need To Know

  • The Ronald McDonald House in Central Ohio provides a vital service to families with children in the hospital, offering them a place to stay within walking distance

  • A group of volunteers known as "The Craftsmen," comprised mostly of retirees, plays a significant role in supporting the Ronald McDonald House by performing various tasks and maintenance work

  • The Ronald McDonald House relies on the contributions of over 300 volunteers, including the Craftsmen, to operate and provide a comfortable and supportive environment for families in need

One group of volunteers, known as "The Craftsmen," is comprised mostly of retirees who lend a helping hand wherever needed.

Ed Krause, a member of the group, has been volunteering since 2006 and takes pride in his work.

“I had a great career. I loved my job. I'd go back and do it again for nothing. But this is the same feeling. You feel like you're doing something valuable for this world," said Krause.

The Craftsmen's tasks range from tending to the gardens to performing various maintenance tasks, including inside and outside work.

“You name it, put flooring in, put ceiling tiles in. Anything you can imagine doing at home, we'll do," Krause explained.

According to Zak Chappelear, facility director of the Ronald McDonald House in central Ohio, the Craftsmen are among the more than 300 volunteers who contribute to the organization's success.

“There's no way we could operate a property this size without them,” he said. There's so much work to be done. Just the maintenance on a building of this size is huge, and these guys jump in. They're always willing to do whatever we ask them to do."

For the Craftsmen, volunteering is about giving back and making a difference.

“When I walked away from here at night,” said Krause,” knowing we fixed something, built something and made it better for the families that use the facility is quite a good feeling.”