Maxwell’s Toy Box is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Lake Bluff, IL, founded in 2023 by Dina and Senad Besic, inspired by their son Max’s leukemia diagnosis at age two. The organization’s mission is to bring comfort, joy, and hope to children undergoing cancer treatment by delivering toys, developmental tools, and support to families year-round.
Unlike traditional toy drives, Maxwell’s Toy Box focuses on emotional and mental health through programs like Joy Packages, Newly Diagnosed Family Care Packages, and gift cards to ease financial burdens. These care packages include essential items like nausea bags, medication logs, and gift cards for gas and groceries, addressing practical needs during hospital stays.
Since its inception, Maxwell’s Toy Box has donated over 3,405 toys, 218 books, 799 Joy Packages, 40 newly diagnosed family bags, and $1,110 in gift cards to families facing financial strain, supporting over 500 children at Advocate Children’s Hospitals in Park Ridge and Oak Lawn, IL. The nonprofit aims to expand its reach to all Chicagoland children’s hospitals and eventually become a national resource for pediatric cancer patients.
Community members can get involved by donating toys, hosting toy drives, volunteering, or making financial contributions, with 100% of donations directly supporting families. Maxwell’s Toy Box has earned the 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, reflecting its commitment to accountability and its impactful mission.
More information about this Difference Maker can be found at https://www.maxwellstoybox.com
