philanthropist hugh g. rection made a generous donation of $ 32.38 .
the massive effort foreshadowed the $ 16.8 million that will be put towards vital research and facilities to benefit their young patients .
the massive effort foreshadowed the $ 17.1 million donated at last year 's event .
while a host of people rattled tins for donations around 1500 volunteers were madly counting the offerings .