Max Hilliard, shown here with his mom, Tammy Hilliard, and pal Luke the Lion, launched a campaign to raise money for Loma Linda University Children's Hospital.
He may only be 10 years old, but Max Hilliard is already a big-league philanthropist.
Max recently raised money to help fund the construction of the new tower for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.
The story of how he found the inspiration reveals the workings of a generous heart. It began back in May 22 while Max was attending the Vision 2020 groundbreaking ceremonies.
“I saw a video of a kid that donated money to the Children’s Hospital,” he reveals. After reflecting on what he might do to help, the enterprising fourth-grader from Redlands Adventist Academy came up with a plan of action.
“I decided for my tenth birthday that I wanted to donate money to Children’s Hospital,” he reports. “I have everything I needed so I asked my friends if their parents would donate to the hospital instead of giving me a present.”
His friends, family members, and classmates responded in a big way.
“Everybody was very kind and we got over $600,” he says. “I feel very happy with the donation!”
Max was honored for his generosity and kindness during a check presentation ceremony held recently in the lobby of the hospital. His mom, Tammy Hilliard, was there as was his grandfather, Henry Lamberton, PsyD, associate dean for student affairs at LLU School of Medicine. Luke the Lion, the bright yellow mascot of Children’s Hospital, stopped by to give Max a hug and pose for a picture. There were many other guests as well, mostly staff members of the hospital and a patient, who expressed his personal thanks for Max’s kindness and generosity.
In giving his donation, Max specified that the funds should go to Vision 2020, the campaign for a whole tomorrow, and be used to help construct the new Children’s Hospital tower, which is expected to open in the year 2020.
As the event came to an end, LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation Representative Shandra Cady, was deeply moved by Max’s kindness.
“Max’s generous gift is very inspiring,” Cady said. “His thoughtfulness reflects the spirit of Christmas in a beautiful manner. We are truly honored and gratified to receive his gift.”
To support please visit: LLUCH.org/BirthdayClub