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Hope Lives On—The Charles A. Pringle Jr. Room

A simple Scripture-verse email signature says something about the lives of Wileeta and Sean-Reed McGee: “To whom much is given, much is required.”

After losing lifelong friend Charles A. Pringle, Jr. to a rare form of renal cancer, entrepreneurs Wileeta and Sean-Reed McGee gave $100,000 to Hope Lodge NYC so that his spirit of justice, service, and generosity would live on.

 

“Most of us spend money on so many things that add up to nothing. For us, naming a room for Charles was a way for his legacy to continue,” said Sean-Reed. “He was a district attorney, dedicated husband, and a community leader in Queens. Through Hope Lodge, he’ll continue to improve hundreds, if not thousands, of lives.”

Sean’s and Charles’ bond of friendship formed in 1993 when they spent every waking moment together pledging to the same fraternity. An only child, Sean explains that Charles became like a brother—and their families became intertwined.

 

Charles introduced Sean-Reed and Wileeta, and was best man at their wedding and renewal of vows. He was a favorite uncle and example to the McGee girls—Dejah, Destiny, and Desirae. All three are already engaged in volunteer service.

 

“None of us is promised tomorrow. Charles’ life was cut short at 32,” said Wileeta, “We could have experienced this great loss, and moved on. But we’re in a position to act, and we want to inspire others to do the same. We want to use what we have to show God’s love and mercy.”

Sean is a vice president with collegebound.net—an organization that connects students with college and career opportunities. Together, the couple owns Jastiny Enterprises. The McGees volunteer with the business and professional sub-committee with the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Ball in New Jersey, and continue to raise awareness and funds for Hope Lodge.

 

Since opening in November of 2007, Hope Lodge NYC has served more than 2,200 guests from all over the nation, and around the world. Nationwide, the network of 28 Hope Lodges served more than 30,000 guests last year. A $50 million capital campaign for Hope Lodge New York City still in progress.

In February, the McGees hosted a reception at Hope Lodge for family and friends and read the journal entries left by guests who had stayed in Charles’ room. “Just knowing he has already touched so many people made us smile,” said Sean, “and we think Charles is smiling too.”

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