The Max Cooper Society was founded to honor Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama’s late co-founder, Max Cooper. Thanks to Max’s generosity, the House opened in 1979 debt-free. The new House, opened in 2007, also opened debt-free largely due to Max’s overwhelming love for our families.
At one time Max owned over 40 McDonald’s restaurants in the Birmingham area. He is the creator of the advertisements behind the jingle, “Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, on a sesame seed bun.” Until his death in August of 2015, he owned over 20 restaurants and continued to volunteer his time and even attended RMHCA board meetings as its Chairman Emeritus. He was a philanthropic example to which we should all aspire.
The Max Cooper Society is an annual leadership giving society for individuals who become a member by contributing at least $1,000 annually to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama.
Membership in the Max Cooper Society makes you an active partner in supporting the families who turn to the Ronald McDonald House and Family Room in DCH to deal with the emotional and financial challenges of caring for a sick child.
How Max Cooper Society Funds Are Used
The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama allows families to focus on the health and well being of their critically ill children by keeping families together who are in need of a community of hope, comfort and empathy.
Financial contributions are used to provide families with the comforts of home: lodging, meals, kitchens, dining areas, living rooms, play space and computer access.
In addition to finding safe and comfortable accommodations within a caring environment, families gain a network of support, establishing friendships with other families facing similar anxieties, hardships, and uncertainties.
Max Cooper Society Benefits
- Recognition on the Annual Donor Wall of Honor as a member of the Max Cooper Society.
- Recognition in RMHCA’s annual report/newsletter.
- Recognition in Heart of the House Gala appreciation advertisement run in the program.
- Receive RMHCA monthly e-newsletter specifically designed to inform and engage you on RMHCA’s achievements and plans.
- A work of art specifically for Max Cooper Society donors who give at least $2,500, created by an award-winning Alabama artist, Tena Payne. Tena, with Earthborn Pottery in Leeds, Alabama has been an accomplished potter since the 1970s. Her work can be seen in restaurant and retail installations around the country (including Hot and Hot Fish Club here in Birmingham) and has been featured in many national and regional publications including Forbes Magazine. Chefs across the country have come to depend on her to create unique serving pieces to showcase their culinary creations.
If you are ready to become a Max Cooper Society member or have more questions, please contact Development Director Kathy Robson at 205-638-7258 or at kathy.robson@rmhca.org.
