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The Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park has a brand-new media room, thanks to a partnership between the New York Islanders and the Clark Gillies Foundation.
The hockey-themed space — complete with Islanders logos, Stanley Cup murals, and replica lockers — was officially unveiled Thursday during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Located next to Cohen Children’s Medical Center, this Ronald McDonald House provides a home-away-from-home for families with children undergoing pediatric medical treatment. The new media room will be available to anyone staying at the facility.
The event was held in honor of what would have been Islanders legend Clark Gillies’ 71st birthday.
“This is what it’s all about,” said Jon Ledecky, co-owner of the New York Islanders. “We’re stewards of this fantastic community trust that gives people the opportunity to promote their cause and tell the community how great things like Ronald McDonald House are.”
Joining Ledecky at the dedication were Islanders greats Butch Goring and Bryan Trottier, along with team alums Josh Bailey, Johnny Boychuk, and Cal Clutterbuck. Also in attendance: Pam Gillies, Clark’s wife and co-founder of the Clark Gillies Foundation; Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NY Metro; and Tina and Chris Albano, a family who has stayed at the Ronald McDonald House.
“This would have been Clark’s dream,” said Pam Gillies. “It helps kids, it’s Islanders. If it’s two things that Clark loved, he loved his New York Islanders and he loved helping kids. So, this is a perfect partnership and the room is beautiful.”
Designed to bring comfort, joy, and a sense of home, the media room features TVs for watching Islanders games, video game consoles, a computer workstation, and plenty of space to relax — all inspired in part by UBS Arena, the team’s home ice.
“The thing that I love about this space is that it’s so versatile,” said Matt Campo. “Whether families want to come in and watch TV or play video games or even use the computer station that we have in here there’s something for everyone in this space.”
Gillies, a Hall of Famer and four-time Stanley Cup champion, played for the Islanders from 1974 to 1986 and served as team captain from 1977 to 1979. He passed away in 2022.
The room was designed by Kim E. Courtney Interiors and Kim Radovich Home, with all furnishings and textiles generously donated.
To learn more or support the cause, visit:
Top: Photo courtesy of New York Islanders
