Maksim Grinberg's Story

More than a philanthropist

Maksim Grinberg was born in a very small town called Khristinovka, presently located in Ukraine, in 1972 and later moved to another small town called Bendery in Moldova. He made this move when he was two years old and spent the rest of his time in this town. The increase of covert opposition to Soviet rule became more prevalent, eventually leading to the repression of dissidents. Despite being born into civil unrest, helping others and generosity are two core pillars of Maksim Grinberg that can be traced to a very young age. Helping others and generosity are pillars that helped ground a young Grinberg, who was never accepted and consistently put down for being Jewish. It was not easy for Jewish people, but Grinberg’s faith held strong and continues even to this day.

After immigrating to the United States with his family on September 17, 1991, Maksim Grinberg quickly established himself in the Jewish community. He has donated to many chabads, such as Chabad by the Ocean. According to Chabad by the Ocean, chabad recognizes no differences between Jews; its goal is to serve the spiritual and physical needs of each Jew regardless of affiliation, wherever he or she may be, with understanding and with love. This is something that Maksim Grinberg can be seen displaying on a daily basis: understanding with love.

Life isn't about getting and having. It's about giving and being.

Maksim Grinberg
As a fighter, you know what kind of person you're dealing with. I respect Maksim because he is devoted to helping and sharing. He selflessly gives and is generous in all aspects of the word.
Majid Raees, World Kickboxing Champion
Maksim not only physically, but mentally became a martial artist. For us, that's a big thing. It doesn't matter who you are, he is supportive to everyone. He is a very important member at Lions.
Artyom Sahakyan, Lions Martial Arts Center President

A few of Maksim Grinberg's favorite quotes