About Us

    On, Nov. 12, 2006, our long time family friend, Whitney Marie Young, age 19, was crossing a street in San Diego when she was struck by a hit and run, drunk driver. Four days later the driver was arrested and sadly Whitney died of massive head injuries. Whitney’s parents created the Whitney Young Children’s Foundation to keep her spirit and love of children alive. The mission of the Foundation is to encourage children and young adults to dream, live, love and laugh in ways previously unimaginable. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and has raised over $180,000 to date. The Foundation has gifted over $30,000 thus far to organizations that deliver services to challenged children and young adults and particularly those who serve the needs of the poor, minority, and disabled. Donations have been made to Surfers Healing, Children Affected by Aids Foundation, Ride to Fly, Sunshine Kids, Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific, and Helping Hands- Monkey Helpers for the Disabled, to name a few

Bio on Whitney:

Whitney Marie Young was a vivacious, fun-loving young woman with a hearty laugh and an infectious smile. She was born August 10, 1987 and she grew up in Palos Verdes Estates, graduating from Palos Verdes High School in 2005. In November 2006, Whitney was attending Mesa Community College in San Diego. Sadly, Whitney was the victim of a hit-and-run drunk driver who struck her while she was crossing the street with four friends. She passed away on November 16th of massive head injuries after a valiant five day fight for her life. A very bright, warm, funny, loving shining light in our world went out that day.

Although Whitney’s life was senselessly cut short, four other people who were critically ill are alive today because of the donation of her heart, liver and two kidneys. Her kind, loving spirit will live on in these individuals and in the hearts of many friends and relatives.

Whitney was a magnet for younger children everywhere she went, whether they be family, neighbors, friends or strangers. She loved volunteering with children at the Pediatric Therapy Network and being a student aide for the Palos Verdes elementary schools. She was working toward a career that involved children. Whitney’s family established the Whitney Young Children’s Foundation in 2006 to honor her memory and her love of children.

The mission of the Foundation is to encourage children and young adults to triumph despite life’s challenges and to dream, live, love and laugh in ways previously unimaginable. The Foundation will support 501 (c) (3) organizations that deliver services to challenged children and young adults and will pay particular attention to the needs of poor and minority individuals and those with disabilities.