One child’s love remembered by embracing families and youth in need.

Tony’s Treehouse is a grassroots nonprofit based in Laguna Beach, California, created in loving memory of Tony, a bright and compassionate 9‑year‑old whose life radiated kindness, generosity, and joy.

On December 23, 1999, during a family trail ride at Smoke Tree Stables in Palm Springs, Tony was placed in a saddle that was not designed for children. Midway through the ride, his horse became frightened and bolted. Tony was thrown, but his foot remained caught in the stirrup, causing him to be dragged across the desert floor as the horse ran at full speed. He tragically lost his life due to the stable’s negligence in failing to provide proper equipment. The accident occurred just one day before Christmas Eve—his older brother Danny’s birthday.

From this profound loss, Tony’s Treehouse was born—created to honor Tony’s beautiful spirit by spreading the same kindness he shared so naturally. What began as a family’s response to heartbreak has grown into a community‑powered mission to uplift children, families, seniors, and individuals facing hardship throughout Orange County and beyond.

With the support of devoted volunteers, family, friends, and local small businesses, Tony’s Treehouse offers year‑round programs including:

• Summer Camp Scholarships for Boys & Girls Club youth of OC
• Care Kits for people experiencing homelessness
• Food and clothing support for local OC needy
• Adopt‑A‑Family, providing gifts and essentials for individuals in need during the holidays
• Valentines for Seniors, delivering love and connection to isolated and homebound older adults

For more than 25 years, Tony’s Treehouse has continued to grow in heart, impact, and purpose. Our archives reflect thousands of lives touched through compassion, service, and community connection. Tony’s Treehouse remains a living memorial—a tribute carried forward by those who believe in making the world better, one act of kindness, one child, one life at a time.

Celebrating 25 years of love, service, and community! Here are some cherished family photos from our journey.

Danny and Becky