Our Mission

The Max Garland Memorial Fund is a federally recognized nonprofit that celebrates the legacy of Max Garland, a brilliant creative who passed away at 36 from a rare blood cancer.  Max was unabashedly himself, inspiring countless people in the queer community and beyond to live more authentically.  Even in the darkest depths of his cancer treatment, Max never stopped finding and creating beauty, and his profound resilience inspires our work today.  Guided by the mission "For those cancer leaves behind," MGMF raises funds to provide a broad range of bereavement support for those living beyond loss.  Our signature annual event, The Max Gala, channels Max's enduring love for high-fashion and creativity into a night of frivolity and fundraising, with all proceeds exclusively benefiting Gilda's Club of Chicago.