RRI Foundation Ends 2024 Strong with More Donations
December 20, 2024
D.J. Rodrian Wins 6th Annual Jack Ryan Community Service Award
We are proud of the Robertson Ryan team members who volunteer and support local non-profits. Since 2019, the Jack Ryan Community Service Award has recognized outstanding community contributions, inspired by founder Jack Ryan’s inclusive spirit.
The 2024 award honors D.J. Rodrian for his work with Just One More Ministry, Inc., a food rescue organization in Glendale, WI, that distributed 4 million pounds of food last year to support Milwaukee’s food-insecure population and local charities serving those in need.
As Fundraising Chairman and board member, D.J. says, “we’ll do anything to feed the hungry.” JOMM operates on a tight budget, and “every penny counts.” The organization is fundraising towards a $50,000 goal by January 2, 2025, with $35,000 raised so far. “I’m planning on doing the polar plunge into Lake Geneva on Jan 1, 2025 – which is a tradition we’ve been doing a few years – although I’ve normally gone into Lake Michigan. It’s an event to raise awareness of hunger and hopefully inspire people to give.”
Foundation Board Member Allan Degner highlighted D.J.’s vital role, saying, “Community volunteerism is vital to creating a better world for everyone, and D.J.’s unwavering commitment is a shining example of what one person can achieve. D.J. volunteers regularly, supports JOMM’s operational needs, serves on their board, and is an integral part of their success. His dedication is instrumental in JOMM’s ability to serve those in need and make a meaningful difference. We are incredibly proud of D.J. and his inspiring efforts.”
To support D.J.’s dedication, the Robertson Ryan Charitable Foundation donated $4,000 to JOMM. Congratulations to D.J. for his inspiring efforts!
Other recipients of End of Year Giving, include:
Nicole Covell, $2,000 Donation – SMILES – Special Methods in Learning Equine Skills – SMILES is a 35-acre equestrian center located in Darien, WI, dedicated to therapeutic riding and activities. Home to 19 specially trained horses, a team of 8 staff members, and supported by 150 volunteers, SMILES offers both mounted and unmounted programs for individuals aged 4 and up. These programs are designed to support thttps://visitsmiles.org/hose with physical, emotional, and cognitive disabilities. Their skilled instructors customize lesson plans to align with each participant’s unique goals, fostering growth and achievement.
Phil Pace, $1,500 Donation – A Place to Gather: Adventure Playground – With a Swiss Family Robinson theme, the Adventure Playground will be an ADA-accessible, multi-terrain recreational landscape designed for all generations and abilities. This inclusive playground will be as imaginative and creative as it is enjoyable and engaging. The Adventure Playground aims to inspire adventurers of all shapes and sizes to craft a new story each time they play, making every visit a unique and memorable experience.
Shane Oswalt, $1,000 Donation – FACES: The National Craniofacial Association – FACES: has supported children and adults across the United States living with severe craniofacial conditions caused by birth defects, injuries, or disease. These conditions often require specialized medical care, which can mean traveling long distances for treatment. They are dedicated to easing this burden by providing financial assistance for travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging, and meals, with established maximums per trip. Once a client is approved, FACES strives to continue support for as long as needed. Assistance also covers the travel costs of one accompanying caregiver per trip.
Patti Blaschka, Nicole Covell, Allan Degner
Patti Blaschka, Dan Lau in place of Phil Pace, Allan Degner
Patti Blaschka, Shane Oswalt, Allan Degner
Robertson Ryan would like to thank everyone on their team for their ongoing support and work within the communities we serve. Thank you!
Learn more by visiting our Charitable Foundation’s website.