The Max McDonald Founation
In Loving Memory of Max
Our foundation was created in honor of Maxwell Bitsko McDonald (MBM), a deeply loved son, brother, and friend whose life was tragically cut short by suicide. Max’s warmth, humor, and wily spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who came across his path. In the wake of our grief, we have come together to ensure that his memory continues to shine a light on the importance of compassion, connection, and mental health awareness.
The Max McDonald Foundation
Mission Statement
The Max McDonald Foundation honors the life and legacy of Max McDonald by championing mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and healing after loss. We support programs, scholarships, and community initiatives that help individuals recognize their value, seek help when needed, and find strength through connection with others.
Through every life touched, every student supported, and every family served, we carry forward the warmth, humor, and spirit that made Max so deeply loved. Our vision is a world where hope is accessible, help is available, and every person knows they matter.
Our Impact
The 2025 Inaugural golf tournament was the first event of the MBM Foundation in our first full year of existence. We are proud to offer the following examples of the Impact that was made from your presence and generosity:
Two students from Randolph-Macon College, Max’s alma mater, were granted $500.00 scholarships to help them continue in their “time of need.”
Full Circle Grief Center was granted $6500.00 to help fund their clinical support and community advocacy in the areas of grief, suicide prevention, and suicide post-vention.
Who is Max
Max was a character that you just wanted to be around. He could be funny or stern, silly or serious, distant or very close. But no matter what the situation, you just wanted him part of your troop – and that is one of the many things we miss most about him. Family was supremely important to Max. From his parents to his grandparents all the way to his siblings Maggie and Seamus, aunts, uncles, and cousins – Max’s connection to his family was always central and set that stage for wonderful friendships throughout his life.
Speaking of Max and his sense of connection with others. Max had an innate sense of when someone needed to talk or was struggling. He would never hesitate to go out of this way and spend as much time and energy that was needed to connect with that person to let them know they mattered and had someone to lean on. In short, Max cared about others more often than he cared about himself or his situation.
Our Next Steps
MBM is focused on growing our Impact to programs, scholarships, and community initiatives in 2026 by expanding our fundraising efforts. We will host our second annual MBM golf tournament on October 26, 2026, at the Federal Club in Glen Allen, Virginia. The proceeds from this event will continue to go toward Full Circle Grief Center, two scholarships to Randolph-Macon College students with the addition of a new scholarship for a college-bound student from Great Valley High School in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Both Max’s alma maters will feel his giving spirit and support.”
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