News & Media
What began as a personal journey quickly captured the attention of people across the nation
One Dad’s Mission has been covered by a wide array of media outlets – spreading awareness about RMH far beyond the cities Jeff rode through. Here are some highlights of the media impact:
Local News at Every Stop
At all 26 House stops on the 2024 ride, local TV news and newspapers told the story of “the dad biking for Ronald McDonald House”. From Los Angeles to St. Louis to Philadelphia, communities saw Jeff on their evening news, often alongside families or staff from the local RMH. This local coverage was crucial in driving community support – volunteers signed up and donations came in as neighbors learned about our mission. Many towns even saw crowds line the route, cheering and waving as Jeff and Liz arrived, thanks to hearing about it on the news or social media.
National Features
The mission’s inspiring message resonated nationally. Jeff’s story was featured on CBS News cbsnews.com (as part of a segment on extraordinary charitable efforts), and an interview with Jeff appeared on a popular morning radio show. The CBS Philadelphia piece on Jeff’s coast-to-coast ride was shared across other CBS local affiliates, expanding the audience greatly. Additionally, RMH’s 50th anniversary in 2024 meant that Jeff’s journey coincided with a lot of national attention on Ronald McDonald House – he was even invited to speak on a RMH anniversary panel about volunteerism and philanthropy. All told, One Dad’s Mission earned 174 media mentions in about 75 days, with a combined potential reach of around 642 million people seeing or hearing about it. That’s exposure that money can’t buy!
Social Media & Online Buzz
Beyond traditional media, One Dad’s Mission gained a following online. Thousands of people followed Jeff and Liz’s journey through Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn updates, sharing posts and boosting our reach. Our hashtags trended locally in several cities when Jeff rolled in. The overwhelming sentiment? Positive, inspired, and supportive. People were truly moved by the story of a dad honoring his daughter by helping others. We saw comments like “I don’t even know you but I’m proud of you” and “This restored my faith in humanity today.” This organic online engagement amplified our impact even further, bringing new supporters to the Ronald McDonald Houses.
Recognition & Awards
The mission’s success did not go unnoticed. The mayor of Akron, OH declared. Oct. 1st the day of Jeff’s visit “One Dad’s Mission Day.” The most humbling honor, was when Jeff was recognized in the U.S. Congressional Record by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick as a Hometown Hero for his service govinfo.gov. That tribute in Washington, D.C. highlighted Jeff’s dedication and even recounted Hailey’s story and the goal to raise $5 million for RMH. It’s a recognition that belongs to everyone who supported this mission, from donors to volunteers together, we proved that acts of kindness can still make headlines and inspire leaders.
Media coverage matters because it amplifies the underlying cause.
Every TV segment or article about One Dad’s Mission wasn’t just about Jeff; it was about the families in need and the Houses that help them. The awareness raised has led to increased inquiries at local RMH chapters (people asking how they can help or stay at a House if needed). We are grateful to all the journalists and media personalities who helped tell our story with heart and accuracy.
Follow Along with One Dad’s Mission on Social Media
