Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities recently named Melinda Kelleher their first-ever vice president of development.
 
“This is a time of unprecedented promise and growth for Atlanta RMHC,” said Beth Howell, President and CEO, Atlanta RMHC. “We have grown significantly in recent years and now provide 81 rooms at two Houses, a Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, and an in-hospital Ronald McDonald Family Room. We are thrilled to add Melinda’s development expertise to our team as we continue to expand to serve the families who need us where they need us most.”
 
In this newly-created role, Kelleher will lead fundraising in support of Atlanta RMHC’s mission to nurture the health and well-being of children and families. She will oversee development, special events and marketing and communications for the nonprofit, including oversight of more than 14,000 volunteers.
 
Kelleher brings more than 20 years of successful fundraising experience to the role working with venerable organizations such as Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and YMCA. Most recently she served as vice president and chief development officer of Atlanta Habitat for Humanity where she increased overall fundraising and also led a capital campaign to secure the first permanent headquarters for the organization.
 
“I am excited to join Atlanta RMHC, especially at this pivotal point in the journey to support our families and our health care partners in new and transformative ways,” said Kelleher. “Research shows children have better medical outcomes when their families are with them during recovery from an illness or injury, and that is why the mission of Atlanta RMHC is so inspiring. We help keep families with sick children close to each other and the care and resources they need during a difficult time.”
 
Kelleher earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism/English from Brenau University and also completed the Women’s Executive Leadership Program at Kennesaw State University. She is President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Atlanta Chapter and also serves as co-chair of the capital campaign steering committee for Friends of Refugees.