Kelly Thompson, who has served as CEO of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois for nearly 10 years, will be stepping down next month as she prepares for a move to North Carolina.
“I absolutely love the charity and love the mission and want to make sure it’s in good hands,” said Thompson of her decision to give a two-month notice prior to her departure to allow for a “very methodical” transition. According to Thompson, the move is a result of wanting to be close to her daughter, who is starting college in the fall, as well other family members who already live in North Carolina.
Thompson’s last day with the organization will be July 10, and she hopes that she will be able to spend some time training her replacement. “The goal is to have overlap, depending on the timing and person’s availability,” she said.
During her tenure, Thompson oversaw the development of programs in both Springfield and Peoria. The Springfield location at 610 N. Seventh St. was renovated in 2014 and a new 22-bedroom facility was built in Peoria, which opened in December 2019.
“Kelly’s legacy at RMHCCI will continue to reach families across our region even after her departure, and we will be forever grateful for her leadership. Her guidance allowed us to remain mission-focused in expanding our core programs during her time with our charity, and she will be greatly missed,” said board chair Melissa Skinner-Liberman in a written statement.
The board of directors of RMHCCI has formed a search committee and is accepting applications through June 8. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected].
