Miller's Place

Often, the best way to inspire others is through hard work and determination. For Miller Greenfield, overcoming his own health issues as a child was only the beginning of his work. Today, he helps inspire others in his community of Citrus Heights, California, with his involvement in both fundraising activities and Miller's Ace Hardware, a unique workplace where others with physical and cognitive impairments can serve their community.

Miller faced many health challenges growing up. He was born hearing impaired, and at age 4 he suffered a stroke. In 2019, he saw a rapid decline in his health that required brain surgery, with a 7 month stay in the PICU. He had a miraculous recovery, and his health improved.

Miller is always up for a new challenge, and he found purpose working part time at Arnold Ace Hardware, which was owned by his uncle Scott Hauer. Miller worked there for almost 5 years.

"My store's about an hour from here. We would pick Miller up, and he'd spend a whole week at our store," said Scott. "It became something for him to focus on."

Miller and his family also got involved with local fundraising events, including a hike fundraiser put on by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics, and Canine Companions for Independence. It was Miller's way to give back to these organizations that helped him so much.

Miller's parents looked into opening their own business that Miller could participate in. Ace Hardware was a natural choice.

"Miller is participating in ways that we could have never imagined," said Jessica Greenfield, Miller's Ace Hardware owner and Miller's mom. "We are offering employment to adults and teens with both physical and cognitive disabilities. I'm excited for our employees to have an opportunity to work in an environment where kindness matters."

The team has many goals for the future of the store. The idea is to meld fundraising activities and awareness of these helpful organizations together, so that everyone that comes in the door can learn about these important causes. They also plan to be an onsite training center for Canine Companions.

"The Greenfields have this ability to pull in people and bring them into a family and make a community, which is people helping people," said Jamie Davis, Sacramento County Probation Officer. "Miller is such a role model to everybody; not just to young kids, but to adults like me. He has a drive and a passion and he's incredible."

"To see all these individuals truly love him and support him, there's no greater gift than that," said Jessica. "And if we can give a fraction of that back to these organizations, to these people, and just to a community at large, it's what drives us."