A Place for Friends
to build community, friendships, happiness, life skills and health through recreation.
Who We Are
Upcoming Fundraising Events
There are many ways to support Max Higbee Center programs and services—and it all starts with one great event. Check out our Fundraising Events page to learn how you can get involved and give back.
A Benefits Perspective
Persons with developmental disabilities have historically enjoyed less freedom, autonomy, and self-determination than their non-disabled fellow citizens, impacting their health and well-being. In response, Western Washington University Professor Max Higbee and his supporters founded the “Drop-In Center” in 1983 as a place where persons with developmental disabilities could enjoy the freedom ofmrecreation according to their choices and interests. Renamed in honor of its founder, the Max Higbee Center (MHC) now stands on State Street in the heart of Bellingham, the streetside sign proudly proclaiming, “A Place for Recreation, Friendship, and Community.” From its inception, the MHC has remained true to its founding purpose—a setting for recreation and its many benefits.