The Von Maur family is donating $1 million to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois (RMHC-EIWI). The gift, given in memory of the family’s matriarch, Susan von Maur, of Davenport, who passed away on May 11 at the age of 86, was pledged in March. Funds will be used to […]
The Von Maur family is donating $1 million to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois (RMHC-EIWI).
The gift, given in memory of the family’s matriarch, Susan von Maur, of Davenport, who passed away on May 11 at the age of 86, was pledged in March.
Funds will be used to improve recreational opportunities at the Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City at 730 Hawkins Drive.
They include the addition of an inclusive playground, new sport court, pergola seating area and a family patio with an outdoor movie area. Recreation rooms inside the house will be updated to add activities for all ages, including interactive games, gaming systems, and an arts and craft area.
“Dick and Sue von Maur believed in the mission and the great work they do for children,” said CEO Jim von Maur in an email to the CBJ. “Secondly, they liked how efficient and well-run the facility is and saw the need for enhancements. We could not think of a more fitting way to honor our parents' legacy.”
“Many families stay with us for weeks or months at a time while one of their children is receiving medical care,” said Shannon Greene, CEO for RMHC-EIWI, in a statement. “Having these additional recreation opportunities available for the whole family provides a little joy during such difficult times.”
RMHC-EIWI provides no-cost accommodations, meals, services, and programming for families who must travel to receive needed medical care for their child.
Richard von Maur was the former co-chairman of the Von Maur department stores for 60 years until he died in 2018.
The couple were also consistent donors to the Quad City Symphony and established the von Maur Scholarship Fund at Trinity Cathedral.
“When we had the opportunity to speak to Mrs. von Maur about her legacy, she wanted to focus on children who are struggling with illness and creating places where they could relax, play, and just be kids,” said Ms. Greene, adding that the improvements will start at the Ronald McDonald House as soon as possible and could be completed in one year.
