#United States #New Orleans #Make-A-Wish #Kirby Foundation #Louisiana Bridges

Sparkling Bridges: A Symbol of Hope in Louisiana

On April 28, 2026, the Kerry & Melinda Kirby Foundation, in collaboration with Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, unveiled plans to illuminate two of Louisiana's most recognized bridges. This initiative, celebrating World Wish Day on April 29, aims to transform the Crescent City Connection in New Orleans and the Bakowski Bridge of Lights in Shreveport into luminous beacons of hope for children facing critical illnesses.

World Wish Day commemorates the founding wish granted on April 29, 1980, when seven-year-old Chris Greicius became an honorary police officer, launching a movement that continues to inspire and empower children. For this special occasion, the bridges will shine bright in blue, creating a stunning visual display that resonates with the mission of Make-A-Wish. In addition to the bridges, essential locations like the Governor's Mansion and the Caesars Superdome will also join in the celebration, symbolizing statewide unity.

Shelly Millwee, CEO and President of Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, expressed her gratitude: "This extraordinary show of support brings our mission to life in a way that words alone cannot. Lighting these iconic landmarks sends a powerful message of hope, strength, and community to every child we serve. We are grateful to Kerry and Melinda Kirby for their show of support."

The announcement also includes the display of Make-A-Wish messaging at notable venues, such as the Smoothie King Center and along the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, amplifying the reach of this inspiring movement. The campaign aims to raise awareness and encourage the community's involvement in supporting wish children and their families across Louisiana.

Kerry W. Kirby, Founder of the Kerry & Melinda Kirby Foundation, shared the importance of this initiative: "When you see these landmarks illuminated, it's a reminder that even in the hardest moments, there is light, there is strength, and there is a community standing behind every child. We are honored to partner with Make-A-Wish to help bring this vision to life, creating a visible, statewide message that hope is not just an idea—it's something we can share, amplify, and deliver together."

The Kerry & Melinda Kirby Foundation is led by the philanthropic efforts of entrepreneurs Kerry W. Kirby and Melinda M. Kirby, who are dedicated to humanitarian initiatives, education, healthcare, and equality. They strive to make a meaningful impact on communities by supporting nonprofit organizations and amplifying the voices of those who often go unheard.

Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, part of a network of 58 chapters across the U.S., has been granting wishes since 1984. With over 12,200 wishes fulfilled locally and a record-breaking 650 wishes granted in 2025 alone, their mission to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses continues to thrive. The foundation aims to improve emotional and physical health for these children by providing them with unforgettable experiences.

In the spirit of World Wish Day, the lighting initiative serves as a reminder that every child deserves to dream, and the community stands ready to support them in realizing those dreams. These iconic Louisiana landmarks will not only light up the night sky but will also illuminate the path of hope and resilience that each wish inspires.

Together, the Kerry & Melinda Kirby Foundation and Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana invite everyone to participate in this celebration, fostering a culture of hope and support for the most vulnerable children in the communities they serve. As the lights shine bright on the bridges, so does the spirit of community and the unwavering belief in the power of a wish.

Join us in this celebration and help us spread hope across Louisiana.