A Medford resident’s love for aiding children and families was appointed May 7 to help lead a nonprofit focused on just that.
Brett Levin, vice president of MHS Lift in Pennsauken, has been named to the board of trustees at the Ronald McDonald House Southern New Jersey, a Camden nonprofit founded in 1983 with the current building built in 1998, to shelter families whose seriously ill children are treated at nearby hospitals.
At no cost to them, families from all walks of life get care, beds and a place to stay that also comes with school programs, a teen advisory council and other programs.
Levin, who recently learned more about Ronald McDdonald House, has been involved with community service through his equipment supply company. Operation Yellow Ribbon, Voorhees Pediatric Facility and the Katz Jewish Community Center have all been recipients of Levin and MHS Lift’s philanthropy.
“As a kid, I was one to be involved in volunteering and it’s something that I think if we have an opportunity to give back, we should,” he shared.
With three children, Levin has coached in the Medford Youth Athletic Association and offered ways for its players and coaches to volunteer. He also raised money for former Shawnee High School student Danny Hill’s bone cancer treatments.
He admitted taking on the additional role at Ronald McDonald House in part to learn from other board members and CEO Teddy Thomas.
The Ronald McDonald House board will face a challenge on how to effectively raise funds online as the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation or postponement of fundraisers by many nonprofits throughout the state.
At his company, Levin has cultivated an environment where employees listen to the input of others before making a decision. He aspired to bring that same outlook to Ronald McDonald House.
“So many families fly in here to the area from other countries to get treatment,” he explained.
Parents have opportunities to be close with their children while they undergo treatment for various medical ailments, to which Levin said was great to see happen.
Kids enrolled in the Boys and Girls Club of Camden County have seen the fruits of Levin’s and his company’s philanthropy. One student who committed to Rowan University received a full scholarship from MHS Lift last year in coordination with the school. Qualifications include involvement in the Youth of the Year program in the organization. This year’s scholarship was split in two.
One student, who received a merit scholarship, has been awarded one by MHS Lift for her room and board. The company awarded an academic scholarship to another student committed to Rowan University, who of which is commuting to the university.
Levin’s efforts to help youth and families have come full circle as he joins one of the region’s largest organizations.
“Being very new, I don’t know everything about it and I’m still learning,” he admitted. “The reputation of the organization makes me feel great. I wouldn’t put my name on something I would be apprehensive about.
“I feel really strongly for the house.”
