Whiz Kid: Steven Holcomb, Volunteer

Whiz Kid: Steven Holcomb

School/Grade: Santa Margarita Catholic High School/Senior

Parents: Monica and John Holcomb

Place of Residence: Coto De Caza

Whiz Kid Accomplishment: Founded the Ronald McDonald House Club at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, which now includes nearly 50 members and serves the nearby Mission Hospital Ronald McDonald CHOC Living Room.

Key to Awesomeness: Steven Holcomb know how to make a mean bowl of chili, and he’s whipping it up for a good cause. Four years ago, Steven repaired and refinished outdoor furniture at the Ronald McDonald House for his Eagle Scout project. The Ronald McDonald House serves as a relaxing, comfortable “home away from home” for families with children undergoing long stays in the hospital. As Steven learned more about this organization, he wondered how he could impact his local community, and he soon founded the Ronald McDonald House Club at Santa Margarita Catholic High School.

Once a month, members of the club meet at someone’s house to prepare a large meal for families at the Mission Hospital Ronald McDonald Living Room. The meal usually includes a main course, a salad, side dish and dessert such as brownies or cookies. The club’s specialty is homemade chili and corn bread; they transport the dish in crockpots to keep it warm. Once they arrive, they set up the food, presenting it as one would if having guests over for dinner.

The Ronald McDonald Living Room at Mission Hospital includes a large, comfortable room where families can relax away from the hustle and bustle of the hospital; it also encompasses two bedrooms for  those who need to stay overnight. A homemade meal only adds to the “homey” touch in otherwise stressful and sometimes painful circumstances. If families happen to be present when the club arrives, they have a chance to interact with them; they are always grateful for the meals.

“I also help raise awareness and funds for the club,” says Steven. “The money we raise goes toward the supplies and food for our next meal.”

A senior at Santa Margarita Catholic High, Steven  has run on the track team for four years, played the violin for eight years and has also been involved in wrestling and football. His favorite school subjects are history and math. Steven is in the process of applying to several different colleges; his top choice is MIT in Massachusetts. “I want to keep volunteering in college,” he says.

Steven’s initiative, positive spirit and involvement in his community and school make him an exceptional candidate for this week’s Whiz Kid.