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For nearly a year, ������ý��Ƶ senior and education major Katy Skonicki has devoted her time and heart to the , where she serves as a Family Service Specialist. In this role, Katy has become a steady source of comfort and care for families navigating some of the most difficult chapters of their lives—supporting children receiving medical treatment at area hospitals such as OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital and Carle Health.

Her work goes far beyond daily responsibilities like providing hot meals and keeping rooms welcoming and clean. For Skonicki, it’s about people—listening, offering emotional support, and being a reassuring presence when families need it most. “My position gives me hands-on experience helping families from all walks of life, religions, and sizes,” she explained. “Even though these families are all different, they are going through similar struggles that are heart-wrenching.”

Eileen Setti, Chief Operating Officer for RMHC of Central Illinois, said Skonicki has become a trusted presence at the House. “Katy does a wonderful job interacting with Ronald McDonald House families. These families are under a lot of stress, and Katy’s calming presence and can-do attitude are so appreciated. Kids gravitate toward her because she always takes extra time to interact with them.”

The experience has given Skonicki a front-row seat to both the challenges and resilience of families in crisis. She admits it’s not always easy. “Listening and supporting them can be difficult at times—not all families have a happy ending. I’ve experienced loss at my job and found myself grieving for these families,” she said. “But there are more positive than negative outcomes. These children are some of the most positive, tough, and resilient people I have ever met. When I see them go home, it makes it all worth it.”

Skonicki sees clear connections between her work at RMHC and her future as an educator. She’s learning how to communicate compassionately with parents during difficult times—skills that will serve her well during parent-teacher conferences, classroom challenges, and moments of celebration. She’s also found joy in connecting with children through play, crafts, and games, reminding her of the importance of building relationships and creating positive experiences.

Most importantly, the work has shifted her perspective. “I’ve learned to be grateful for every day, and for my healthy family. I’ve found that I truly have a passion for lending a helping hand and having a listening ear. Sometimes it’s not about doing or saying something—it’s just being there that makes the difference.”

As Skonicki prepares for her career in education, she carries with her not just the lessons of teaching and learning, but the deeper lessons of empathy, resilience, and gratitude—qualities that will help her shape not only students’ minds, but their lives.

—Emily Potts