Our story

After tragically losing their beloved son Maddox in a terrible accident at the Pittsburgh Zoo, the family made a simple request in his obituary: “In lieu of flowers, the family requests everyone bring a toy construction truck to be donated to a children’s Christmas charity.” This idea was based on Maddox’s love of construction vehicles and his passion to share anything he had with his friends. His parents felt it only fitting to give to others, in memory of their son.  

This simple request prompted an unexpected, and incredibly overwhelming, outpouring of support that inadvertently transformed into a non-profit organization — Trucks For Maddox Charitable Trust. It is the desire of Maddox’s family to continue this cause while honoring Maddox and keeping his vivacious spirit alive. The primary goal of Trucks For Maddox was to bring smiles to disadvantage children by gifting toy trucks.   

Through a series of fundraisers including a golf outing, Touch-A-Truck events, and Giving Tuesday to name a few, we strive to create opportunities to continue to collect toys and secure donations in support of this goal. With the support of our generous partners on an annual basis, Trucks For Maddox has delivered over 20,000 toys to children since 2012 through multiple charities and have opened The Optical Assistance Fund through a partnership with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation.