COMMUNITY CHAMPION

DARBY HILLS is a powerful force in community impact and personal achievement. With a distinguished legal career as an arbitrator, mediator, and assistant state’s attorney focused on child welfare, Hills co-founded Barrington Children’s Charities in 2010. Under her leadership, BCC has addressed child hunger and expanded to provide essential services to local children. As a Barrington Hills village trustee, beauty pageant titleholder, and committed volunteer, Hills’ dedication shines in every aspect of her work.

Most rewarding part of what you do? The most rewarding part is seeing the direct impact Barrington Children’s Charities has in our community. It’s rewarding to me when I meet the children and families we serve and hear how the food we provide and the services we offer allow the children to be successful learners and leaders. I am truly humbled. It’s also rewarding to hear how much it means to the volunteers and how they look forward to being there every week.

Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? View others as your teachers. When starting a business, or in my case, a nonprofit, the best advice I can give is to view others not just as a colleague, co-workers, employees, or volunteers, but as a person in a position to teach you. You will always have the opportunity to gain knowledge and better your chances of success.

Powerful woman you admire the most? My mom is the most powerful woman I admire most. As a single mom raising my brother and me, my mom sacrificed so much to provide for us. She consistently worked overtime to make ends meet and took on the bulk of parental duties, all while never missing one of my softball or basketball games. She is the most selfless and bravest person I know.

For more information, visit barringtonchildrenscharities.com and follow @barrington_childrens_charities and @darby.hills on Instagram.