About One Dad’s Mission
Our Story
In 2013, the Bekos family faced the unthinkable – their 13-year-old daughter Hailey was struck by a very rare disease, Anti NMDA Receptor Encephalitis an illness that caused thousands of seizures and a four-month coma. During this time, the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House became their “Home Away from Home,” providing comfort and support for 254 days while Hailey fought for her life. Against all odds, Hailey emerged from her coma and is thriving today. That experience ignited the Bekos family’s commitment to give back. One Dad’s Mission was born from a father’s gratitude and love, and his promise to help other families facing similar hardships.
Hailey, July 2013
Hailey, Nov 2013
Hailey, 2023
The Mission
The very first Ronald McDonald House in the world, opened in Philadelphia in 1974, founded by Dr. Audrey Evans and Jimmy Murray. Their compassion and vision gave Jeff’s family a home away from home during their darkest days. Out of that experience, One Dad’s Mission was born, a heartfelt effort to give back to the Houses that keep families close when their child is critically ill. What began as one father’s personal journey has grown into a national movement of hope and gratitude. In 2024, Jeff embarked on a solo cross-country bike ride from California to Pennsylvania, spanning 4,146 miles and stopping at 26 Ronald McDonald House chapters. This first journey raised over $716,000 for RMH and inspired countless communities.
In 2025, Jeff and his team took the mission global with a 300-mile 24-hour ride in the Netherlands ride supporting Ronald McDonald Kinderfonds.
Beginning in 2026, Jeff and Liz will set out on a multi-year national tour to visit every Ronald McDonald House in America, aiming to raise awareness, volunteerism, and funds to keep families close.
Meet the Team
Jeff Bekos
Founder & Dad on a Mission
Liz Bekos
Co-Founder & Mom
Brenden Bekos
Son and Unsung Hero
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Bekos family’s experience at RMHC Philadelphia inspired Jeff to give back through cycling and storytelling.
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You can keep up with Jeff’s ride in several ways. Our Interactive Journey Map on the website shows each Ronald McDonald House stop and Jeff’s current location in real time. We also post Live Updates (blog entries, photos, and videos) from the road so you can experience the journey alongside Jeff. For day-to-day snippets, follow us on social media – Jeff frequently shares updates on Instagram, Facebook, and Strava. And don’t hesitate to send Jeff a message of encouragement on our site – knowing the community is cheering him on keeps him pedaling through the long miles!
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Your donations can go towards your local Ronald McDonald House or to where it’s needed the most.. Your donations are tax-deductible as One Dad’s Mission is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.. See below for further information.
