Messages from the President & CEO

On February 28, 1837, the organization now known as Hillside first opened its doors to support the needs of vulnerable children in our community. So much has changed in 188 years, but Hillside’s essential mission of service hasn’t wavered—and neither has our need for public support that help us achieve our goals.

In honor of our “birthday” later this month, we’ve established a Hillside Challenge that provides an ideal opportunity to support our mission. Thanks to the generosity of several corporate sponsors, your donation will be doubled throughout the month of February. There’s never been a better time to join us in keeping Hillside Strong! 

Each year, Hillside’s services make a critical difference for thousands of children, adults and families—strengthening whole communities, one life at a time. I hope you’ll take advantage of this matching-gift opportunity by making a generous donation before February 28, and encouraging your friends and family to do the same.

As always, thank you for your support of Hillside! Your partnership makes our mission possible.

Maria Cristalli
President & CEO
Hillside

The past 12 months have been extraordinary in the Hillside community, and we’re looking forward to doing even more in the New Year!

2025 will see new programs that expand our ability to serve vulnerable youth, adults and families; new events that celebrate the achievements of those we serve and our many talented Hillside employees; and new and enhanced partnerships that support our work and allow us to do even more.

One exciting event is coming soon: Hillside’s 188th birthday on February 28 will be a Challenge Day in which we humbly ask the community to renew your support for our life-changing work.

Details about the Challenge Day and other 2025 announcements will be shared on our website as well as on Hillside’s social media channels. If you’re not already doing so, please follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X—and be sure to share our news with your own networks.

Happy New Year from Hillside! Together, we can help countless young people and families achieve the stronger futures they deserve.

Maria Cristalli
President & CEO

One of Hillside’s most enduring traditions has returned: Special Santa, our annual toy-and-gift drive that makes holiday wishes come true for thousands of children and families. I hope you’ll add your support to this magical year-end program!

For more than 40 years, Special Santa has been an example of not only charity, but community. Our employees across all Hillside programs collaborate to build gift lists from the wishes of some of the most vulnerable children we serve. Corporate donors like KeyBank provide vital sponsorship support that helps underwrite our efforts. And then, each November and December, thousands of individuals from the community provide the donations that ultimately brighten the holidays for so many.

This year, there are more ways than ever to play a part – whether by making a direct online donation; shopping online via our Amazon Gift Lists; starting your own Special Santa fundraiser with family, friends and co-workers; or shopping locally and dropping off new and unwrapped gifts at dozens of convenient donation boxes in the community.

You can visit our Special Santa online headquarters for a complete list of locations, along with the most requested gifts and all you need to know to participate.

Last year, Special Santa brought over 7,000 gifts to more than 3,500 children and families – and thanks to you, I know this year will bring smiles to even more faces.

Thank you for your support, and for your continuing interest in our mission!

Maria Cristalli
President & CEO
Hillside

It can’t be said enough: at its core, Hillside’s work is a partnership. For nearly 188 years, our agency has helped generations of families overcome their challenges and thrive in their communities—but we don’t do it alone.

I was reminded powerfully of this idea of a shared commitment to our community on the morning of Tuesday, September 17, when B. Thomas Golisano announced that Hillside would receive a transformational $5 million donation.

Even with Mr. Golisano’s well-regarded reputation as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and civic leader, his decision to award a combined gift of $360 million to organizations across Upstate New York represents an extraordinary commitment to philanthropy as a visionary act of investment. Generous donations from individuals, corporations and foundations make it possible for us to meet the ever-evolving needs of those we serve—and touch more lives, every day.

As with every donation, this expression of trust in our work requires a commitment to use the donated funds wisely and transparently. Mr. Golisano’s gift will provide significant support in a major project that will help shape the future of the care we provide. I look forward to sharing more details on this exciting project in the months to come.

For now, the entire Hillside community deeply appreciates the partnership of Mr. Golisano—and every donor who shares our commitment to helping vulnerable children, adults and families achieve the stronger futures they deserve.

Thank you!

Maria Cristalli
President & Chief Executive Officer
Hillside

Back-to-school season is an annual tradition for every community, and every family. Even if you’ve never been a parent, the memories of this time of year—the eager anticipation of preparing for a new grade, new classes and new adventures—are powerful, and last a lifetime.

Of course, today’s school-age children and their families are experiencing these feelings in real time—and that includes the Hillside community! The teachers and teaching assistants in Hillside’s five schools are embracing another year of academic opportunity. Youth Advocates in our Hillside Work-Scholarship Connection program are back in the public schools where they work closely every day with middle and high school students. No matter the program or location, everyone is excited to form the new connections that make learning and discovery possible.

The young people and their families who partner with our staff face a variety of distinct challenges that can impact their academic experiences. We’re proud to be a part of their journey, and to help them celebrate their achievements during the year to come. We know that the children and youth in our programs are like any other students: their minds are curious, and they have extraordinary potential.

On behalf of every Hillsider, please have a healthy, happy and successful return to school. And as always, thank you for your support of our mission!

Maria Cristalli
President & CEO
Hillside