The Magic of Make-A-Wish

Monday, October 10, 2016

Organizations may change programs and service opportunities offered over time.  For the most up-to-date information about this organization, please visit its website here.

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"Everyday, people are the key to granting wishes."
- Make-A-Wish America

Make-A-Wish is a name you've probably heard at least once in your lifetime. This organization's purpose is to grant the wishes of all children who are diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. On average, a wish is granted in the United States and its territories every 35 minutes by the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America.

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The organization first began with a seven-year-old boy named Chris Greicius, who wasn't expected to live long after being diagnosed with leukemia. Chris longed to become a police officer and "catch bad guys" with a close family friend and U.S. Customs Agent, Tommy Austin. Thanks to friends, family, and the community, Chris's wish was granted: He became Arizona's first and only honorary Department of Public Safety officer. Although Chris passed away shortly thereafter, his story inspired many who wanted to continue helping kids in similar situations. From there, the Make-A-Wish Foundation started to take shape.  (Click to read Make-A-Wish's original article.)

Chris Greicius, age 7 | Source

On the Make-A-Wish website, there are links to refer a child for eligibility, to find out more ways to help, and to donate to make wishes realities. You can even read about granted wish stories online and get to know more about the kids positively impacted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. (Some wishes are as simple as wanting to go bug catching for a day!) Every donation, no matter if it's time or money, counts toward giving someone's life a moment of pure happiness and joy.

So, how can you help out? Aside from donating money to help the funds that go toward granting wishes, you can also volunteer to help out with various activities held by your local Make-A-Wish chapter. If you are age 16 and above, you can volunteer at Make-A-Wish events or simply as an office worker.

Volunteers in the past have helped at a number of events ranging from golf tournaments and silent auctions to fashion shows and parades.  Those who choose to volunteer as office workers generally perform office duties, administrative tasks, and special projects that the foundation needs assistance in. 

Information:
Main Website: Make-A-Wish | Contact | Donate

Make-A-Wish Hawaii
Location: 223 South King St. #100
Phone: (808) 537-3118
Website: www.hawaii.wish.org
Volunteer Opportunities | Other Ways to Help

- Arissa Cheng '17
STAFF WRITER

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