Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas recently awarded scholarships to six members of its 2025 Teen Leadership Board, which helps teens develop real-world business skills through fundraising and teamwork.
Local students participate in monthly meetings, volunteer shifts, signature fundraisers, professional development and other activities through the board.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas created an annual scholarship to celebrate the hard work of the board members and help invest in their futures. This year’s six scholarship recipients are:
- Annabell Williams, Greenville High School
- Chloe Nickles, First Presbyterian Academy
- Berit Galloway, Greer Middle College Charter School
- Kate Kitchens, Greenville High School
- Katie Hoffman, Greenville High School
- Frederic Smith, Greenville High School
Nicolette Occhifinto, the board’s advisor, said the Teen Leadership Board is a one-of-a-kind program made possible by the support of the students. Since August, the board has raised more than $22,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas and invested over 900 cumulative volunteer hours.
“When this group walks through our door, the entire house fills with brightness and laughter,” Occhifinto said. “They are the heart of our mission in making our house feel like a home and are truly inspiring in every aspect of their lives. It’s an honor to advise such an incredible group.”
The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas provides housing, meals, emotional support and transportation assistance for families of children receiving medical treatment in the Upstate. For more information, visit rmhc-carolinas.org.
