Completing the Journey: The Mighty Miles Foundation’s final Toy Drop in Milwaukee

On Thursday, October 17th, The Mighty Miles Foundation reached a heartwarming milestone: the conclusion of its first annual toy drive, with the final stop at the Ronald McDonald House in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

As we unloaded toys, it felt like the peak of a journey that began not just with this year’s drive, but with a deeper, more personal connection. I had the pleasure of speaking with RMHC Eastern Wisconsin Director of Marketing and Communications, Melissa Marney, who shared that this year marks their 40th anniversary. It was a special moment for us, united by a common goal to help families during challenging times.

The Mighty Miles Foundation was born from the personal experiences of Jodie Sherwood, Miles’s mother, whose journey of caring for her son deeply intertwined with the Ronald McDonald House. During Miles’ life, the Ronald McDonald House became a second home for him and his family, a safe haven during difficult days when Miles was receiving treatment. Jodie often describes it as “a mother you didn’t know you needed.” This toy drive feels like her way of giving back—a way to provide comfort and hope to families just like hers.

The toy drive itself began with a beautiful gesture at Miles’s funeral, where 250 toys were donated in his honor instead of flowers. These toys were split between the Ronald McDonald House in Rochester, MN, and the Ronald McDonald House in Milwaukee. As Jodie explained, seeing these toys bring joy to children who are going through their own medical struggles warms her heart and is a way to continue spreading the light and smiles that Miles brought into the world.

Toys may seem like small gifts, but to a child staying at the Ronald McDonald House, they can be so much more. For children facing medical challenges, the comfort and escape that a simple toy provides can mean the world. It offers a moment of joy, distraction, and normalcy in an otherwise stressful time. The Mighty Miles Foundation is proud to be part of that magic, knowing that these toys will help children find hope and happiness even when times are tough

At the Ronald McDonald House, every effort is made to create an environment where families can feel at home, even when they’re far from it. Toys help lighten the emotional load for both children and their families. They symbolize a message of care and kindness from the community, showing that they are not alone in their journey.

I had the opportunity to speak with Melissa Marney, who shared a few insights about their incredible impact. They are celebrating their 40th anniversary this year, a huge milestone for an organization that has helped over 55,000 families since opening its doors in 1984. What began as a 25-room facility has now grown to 84 rooms, offering much-needed respite to families who need a place to stay while their children receive critical medical care.

Melissa spoke proudly of the RMHC’s “Magic Room,” a special place where many of the toy donations from our toy drive will likely find their way. The Magic Room allows kids to use a token and enter an enchanting room where they can pick out a toy and a book, making their hospital stay brighter. She explained how important it is to have these toys, especially around the holidays, when many families won’t be able to celebrate at home. It’s through donations like ours that they can help create moments of joy and warmth, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Melissa also encouraged everyone to get involved in RMHC’s Pop Tab Program. It’s a simple, fun way to contribute to the cause. By collecting and donating the aluminum tabs from cans, you can help provide the financial support that RMHC relies on to operate its facilities and keep families together during their time of need.

While our toy drive may have come to a close, your generosity doesn’t have to stop here. In honor of Miles, RMHC has set up a QR code where you can support families through their online donation page. Scan the QR code or click the link at the bottom of the page and choose 'Mighty Miles' on the Fundraiser dropdown menu to donate in honor of Miles. Every donation helps ensure that families have a place to stay and that children have the comfort they need while they battle illness.

From all of us at The Mighty Miles Foundation, thank you. Your support has made our first annual toy drive a tremendous success, and we couldn’t have done it without your generosity. This is just the beginning—our foundation has big plans for the future, with more events and fundraising opportunities on the horizon. Be sure to stay connected by signing up for our newsletter on our website, and together, let’s continue to bring smiles, comfort, and hope to families in need.

Visit Ronald McDonald House Charities: Eastern Wisconsin's website to learn more about their mission and how to get involved.

The spirit of “Smile Like Miles” lives on in every toy, every donation, and every act of

kindness we share. Stay tuned for what’s next!

Click here to watch TMJ4 Milwaukee's story about our toy donation

Scan this QR Code to donate to the Ronald McDonald House Charites

or click Here