Make-A-Wish Launches Nationwide 'WishMakers Wanted' Campaign This April

April marks World Wish Month, and this year, Make-A-Wish America is rallying communities across the nation under its call to action, 'WishMakers Wanted.' The nonprofit aims to inspire individuals, communities, and corporate partners to help bridge the gap for children with critical illnesses waiting for their wishes. In the U.S., a child is diagnosed with a critical illness every 20 minutes, yet for every child whose wish is granted, two remain in anticipation of their own. Amidst this urgent situation, Make-A-Wish endeavors to harness the power of collective goodwill.

Over the past two years, 'WishMakers Wanted' has evolved from a mere slogan into a significant movement. This initiative demonstrates the crucial role that over 50 WishMakers play beyond granting wishes; they contribute their time, talent, and resources. Children like 4-year-old Andrew, who dreams of becoming a zookeeper, and 11-year-old Sophiya, who aspires to be a nurse, are the faces of this year's campaign. Their stories underscore the emotional and physical benefits that a wish can confer on young patients undergoing treatment.

Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, emphasizes the profound impact of wishes on a child's health journey. “Wishes give hope and joy that inspire kids to fight their illnesses,” she states. Through 'WishMakers Wanted,' Make-A-Wish invites everyone to join in this mission and help deliver hope to countless deserving children globally.

The message will gain traction through a comprehensive media outreach campaign involving personal stories from wish alumni and support from celebrities. Events across various major cities, including Phoenix, Miami, Chicago, and Los Angeles, will unite the community towards this noble cause. Noteworthy will be an auction featuring exclusive items from the popular game show 'Wheel of Fortune' and an engaging digital mosaic symbolizing the collective efforts of WishMakers.

Corporate partners are also set to fuel the campaign, launching fundraising initiatives both in-store and online. Sponsors include a diverse mix of brands—from Avis and Royal Caribbean to The Walt Disney Company and WWE—who will collaborate with Make-A-Wish to make a tangible difference during World Wish Month.

At the end of the month, Disney will spearhead the 'Disney Week of Wishes,' bringing happiness to wish kids through various events, including a unique Avengers-themed day at Disneyland Resort. This celebration not only highlights Disney's ongoing commitment to the organization but also represents a significant milestone as they honor former CEO Bob Iger with the first-ever WishMaker Lifetime Achievement Award. His leadership has significantly advanced Make-A-Wish's efforts, contributing to over 110,000 granted wishes during his time.

The genesis of World Wish Month can be traced back to World Wish Day, celebrated on April 29, which marks the anniversary of then-7-year-old Chris granting a wish to become a police officer in 1980. Inspired by that experience, several original WishMakers came together to create Make-A-Wish, igniting a powerful movement that has since granted over 650,000 wishes worldwide.

Interested participants can learn more and become WishMakers themselves by visiting wishmaker.org. Together, the community's collective efforts can make a real difference in the lives of children facing critical illnesses.

Make-A-Wish has continually made waves in nonprofits, emerging as the most trusted organization in the U.S., with the support of nearly 20,000 volunteers and giving partners. The nonprofit's ambition remains clear: to turn the dreams of every deserving child into reality, demonstrating enduring hope and joy amidst their brave battles with illness.