About

How Heartfelt Hugs was born...

MADELENE KLEINHANS
Founder and Executive Director
Hi, I am Madelene Kleinhans and I am 20 years old. I first had the idea to help siblings of critical illnesses when I was 10. My mom (Sarah) and I wanted to put a chest full of donated toys for the sibling in the Children's hospital where my brother was being treated, but they just did not have the room. After that we had a lot of people who wanted to donate toys, tickets, passes, money, and even their own time to help volunteer. So then we knew that we could not just give up on the whole idea. That is when I came up with the idea of providing free fun events every two months for siblings of critically ill children! Now Heartfelt Hugs has grown so quickly that we often have 75-100 participants (siblings and parents) at our events.

SARAH CLARKE KLEINHANS
Logistics Director
I am honored to be a part of this incredible venture and I have the special job of keeping in touch with these incredible families. I was a professional model/commercial actor/spokesmodel most of my life so I like to keep the parents entertained during the events. Heartfelt Hugs events are meant to be joyous so I try to keep the parents laughing. I worked for the nonprofit, Up With People, as a specialty performer/dance staff for many years so I have a passion for nonprofit work. I told my kids to leave a legacy but I didn't expect my teen to be my boss, YIKES.

SARAH CLARKE KLEINHANS: Logistics Director

HEARTFELT HUGS/Madelene Kleinhans AWARDS:
(For video links, see Awards page)
Denver 7Everyday Hero Award, 2016
Prudential Spirit of Community Award, SILVER 2016
Heart of Broomfield, YOUTH 2015
President's Volunteer Service Award, GOLD 2015
Kohl's Kids Who Care, Community Winner 2014