At Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas (RMHCA) we provide a “home-away-from-home” for families with critically ill children receiving treatment at local hospitals. Donors and volunteers help the House provide comforts of home, including warm meals, guest suites, laundry, play spaces, and many amenities. I quickly fell in love with this mission and the wonderful people here. I am in charge of fundraising for the House, including special projects and annual fund. I started in November 2009 after Janell Mason (who six years later became my boss) recommended I apply.

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Best career moment so far:

Helping raise $9 million to construct the new Ronald McDonald House was the most extraordinary, fulfilling experience. Seeing it open in November 2016 —I have no words! Working alongside wonderful committee members, colleagues, and donors was icing on the cake.

How did you know this is what you wanted to do?

Giving back has always been key, yet I never dreamed that I would be a fundraiser! I started with event planning and quickly developed a passion for non-profit work and, yes, asking for donations. THIS is my calling.

Best advice you’ve ever received:

At my first fundraising job, my boss said to me, “Don’t think of asking as a sales pitch. People want to give, they just need to be asked.” She was so right. Most people are grateful to be included.

Favorite part of living in Little Rock?

My husband, Evan, and I grew up in Little Rock, so our family and friends live close. It is especially nice to have them nearby with our three-year-old son, Ethan, and second son due in August. I love our BIG small city!

How you define success:

Knowing my work makes a difference. I cannot imagine having a critically ill child — I would need all the support I could get. My hope is that in a small way, I help provide that when it’s needed most.

What advice would you give your 18 year old self?

Don’t sweat the small stuff. I think that’s always good advice at any age, but harder to live by when you’re young.

What is a typical workday like?

Coffee, greeting RMHCA colleagues, and playing with our Director of Smiles, a goldendoodle named Mac. Next are emails, donor calls, meetings, and writing proposals. I enjoy that each day is a little different, which keeps it fun!

Most rewarding part of your job:

Securing a sizable donation that will allow more families to be served by RMHCA. We can’t make the treatments less painful, but we can provide a way for families to stay close to their critically ill child while they heal.

It's all in the details...

Neighborhood you live in

Shannon Hills

Hometown

Little Rock

Last good read

“Designs for Fundraising” by Harold Seymour

Favorite Food

Mexican

Favorite Lunch Spot

Heifer Cafe

First thing you do at the office each morning

Greet colleagues and check emails

Last splurge

Lots of raffle tickets at a Ducks Unlimited Banquet

Hobbies

I love to travel and pretty much anything with my husband and family

Dream Vacation

I have so many! Alaskan cruise, Tuscany, Switzerland, ANYWHERE!

Favorite Song

At the moment, it’s singing “Bringing Home A Baby Bumblebee” with Evan and our son at bedtime

Emily is just one woman to watch in 2017

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women to watch 2017

Emily Piechocki

Development Director

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas

women to watch 2017

Emily Piechocki

Development Director

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas

pressing questions