Hilltop Home is a nonprofit organization that offers comprehensive care for children who are disabled or medically fragile. Hilltop is home to 22 children who require specialized care 24 hours a day. The facility is equipped to handle complex medical situations, staffed with dedicated caregivers, therapists, and medical professionals who work together to create a nurturing space where these children can thrive. With a dedicated team, Hilltop focuses on helping children achieve their fullest potential.
The children at Hilltop Home often have unique and multifaceted needs, necessitating a comprehensive approach to care. Beyond addressing their medical challenges, Hilltop places a strong emphasis on emotional and social development. The facility offers enriching activities such as sensory stimulation, music therapy, and individualized educational plans. These activities not only engage the children but also foster their growth and development. The therapy department is a cornerstone of Hilltop’s services, providing physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapies tailored to each child’s needs.
Recently, Hilltop Home has partnered with Millbrook High School’s National Honor Society (NHS). The NHS students have begun volunteering at the facility, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and compassion to the children and staff. The partnership was initiated by board member Ryan Ramey, who connected with Millbrook NHS club advisor Kayla Moore. Moore immediately saw the potential for this collaboration and welcomed the opportunity for her students to get involved.
“I got in touch with the club advisor of NHS at Millbrook, Kayla Moore, and she was very open to connecting with Hilltop Home,” said Ramey. “This is a great opportunity for those in the NHS who are volunteering, and they are truly making a difference!”
Volunteering opportunities for the NHS students include reading to the children, assisting with arts and crafts, and helping with classroom activities. These tasks, though seemingly simple, make a significant impact. By interacting with the children and supporting their day-to-day activities, volunteers not only bring joy to the children but also provide relief to the hardworking staff.
For the students, the experience is equally enriching, offering them a chance to build empathy, develop leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to their community. The students got an educated tour of the facility and got to meet some of the children. Some have begun volunteering, but those who have not yet are making plans too.
The staff at Hilltop Home deeply appreciates the volunteers’ efforts. They play a vital role in creating moments of happiness and connection for the children. For many of the children, who are predominantly nonverbal, interactions with volunteers can light up their day. Smiles, laughter, and positive body language from the children reflect the profound impact these interactions have.
Senior and NHS member Lily Jones shared her excitement about the partnership. “I am excited for what this opportunity holds. After seeing the children and how much the staff does for them, I’m glad to be able to help out,” said Jones. “I had never heard of Hilltop Home until Ms. Moore told us about it, but I think that more people should be informed about them and what they do—it will truly touch your heart.”
The partnership also offers educational benefits for the NHS volunteers. This experience opens their eyes to the challenges faced by medically fragile children and the dedication required to support them. Funded through donations, grants, and community involvement, Hilltop Home actively engages with the public to spread awareness and seek support for its mission.
These funds allow the facility to maintain its operations, purchase new technology, and make critical updates. On July 10, Hilltop received a generous $100,000 donation from the Lonnie & Carol Poole Family Foundation. This funding was used to replace the air conditioning systems throughout the facility, ensuring a comfortable environment for the children and staff. While financial contributions like this are essential, Hilltop also relies on the power of community engagement to advance its mission.
Volunteers like the Millbrook High School NHS members exemplify the importance of community involvement. Their time, energy, and dedication help foster a sense of inclusion and joy that transcends the medical care provided at Hilltop.
NHS club advisor Kayla Moore said, ¨I think this is a great opportunity for people to see things outside themselves because personally I have a neighbor who needs assistance and truly benefits from others visiting and interacting with them.¨By stepping into the classrooms and interacting with the children, these volunteers build bridges between the community and the organization.
The impact of Hilltop Home extends beyond its immediate residents. By engaging with the community through volunteer programs and outreach efforts, Hilltop spreads awareness of the needs and potential of medically fragile children. This, in turn, inspires more people to contribute their time, resources, and talents to the cause.
Hilltop Home continues to shine as a beacon of care and compassion, made stronger by the support of donors, volunteers, and partners like Millbrook High School’s National Honor Society. Together, they work toward creating a brighter future for children who need it the most.
