For many children, the thought of a hospital visit can be a source of fear. However, one remarkable individual has discovered a way to bring a touch of brightness to these often daunting experiences. Raymond Mohler, a young man with a deeply personal connection to the hospital, founded the Little Saint Nick Foundation to make a difference.

"Inspiring Generosity in Hospitalized Kids"

Raymond Mohler's Inspiring Journey

When Raymond Mohler was just four years old, he faced a traumatic hospital visit due to a joint disease. "It was a truly harrowing experience, and I had no comprehension of what was happening," he recalled. Thankfully, his stay was relatively short, lasting only one day, but the impact was lasting. "When I finally left after those long eight hours, my parents told me about other kids who had to stay for much longer. This realization filled me with a natural sense of gratitude, and I knew I wanted to do something to help," he said.At the age of six, Ray took the initiative and founded the Little Saint Nick Foundation. This non-profit organization is dedicated to supporting children in hospitals. The foundation provides gift bags filled with goodies and handmade Christmas cards to young patients. "The hospital I was in sparked a giving spirit within me that my parents wholeheartedly embraced," Mohler explained. "Over 20 years later, our efforts have reached more than 2 million kids, and now our focus is on inspiring kids of all ages to give back."

UT's Youth Tampa Entrepreneurs Program: A Helping Hand

The University of Tampa's Youth Tampa Entrepreneurs program played a crucial role in the foundation's work. They sponsored a bag-packing event, assembling 250 gift bags for Muma Children's Hospital at Tampa General Hospital. "At Youth Tampa Entrepreneurs and Youth Tampa as a whole, it's essential for us to give back philanthropically. What Ray and Little Saint Nick do is truly amazing," said Zoe Mcalpin, President of Youth Tampa Entrepreneurs.

Student's Personal Experience and Impact

UT student Siena Morandi has a special bond with the organization. She herself received one of the gift bags when she was in high school. "When I got that bag, it was a moment of pure joy. It was a really tough time for me, and my family was also dealing with the height of the Covid pandemic. Everything was uncertain with my illness," she shared. Morandi emphasized that the efforts of the Little Saint Nick Foundation meant a great deal during her hospital stay. "The uplifting words in the cards really made it a more bearable experience. It showed me that there are people who care," she said.Each gift bag costs just $10 to make and includes a coloring book, coloring pencils, a stuffed animal, and a handwritten note. "By instilling these values of giving back and doing good in their daily lives, we believe we are sowing the seeds for future generations of leaders and good people in the world," Mohler said.Since 2004, the non-profit has helped over two million kids by distributing 100,000 gift bags. For more information on the foundation and how you can get involved, visit their website here.Stay connected with FOX 13 TAMPA for more heartwarming stories and initiatives that are making a positive impact in our community.