The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a non-profit organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Most people have heard about this organization, but the Madison Rotary Club recently got an in depth report on its many good works when Marisa Pedro, Make-A-Wish regional manager for Southern West Virginia, was a guest of the club. She explained that wishes usually fall into four categories: Travel wishes, celebrity meetings, gift wishes, and occupational wishes, and benefit children between the ages of 2 ½ years to 18 years. Make-A-Wish of Southern West Virginia serves 23 counties, and last year granted over 80 wishes, including nine in Boone County, Pedro said. The foundation is funded through donations. The learn more, call 304-342-WISH. Pedro was introduced by Rotary President Nick Smith.
Make-A-Wish® is looking for kindhearted individuals to step forward and volunteer their time and friendship in order to assist with wish fulfillment. To become a wish volunteer, individuals must be at least 21 years of age, pass a criminal background check, complete an orientation and attend a training session.
As members of “wish teams,” volunteers are an important component of fulfilling wishes. Working together, the “wish team” meets with the wish child’s family, acts as a liaison between Make-A-Wish® staff and the family, and aids in determining the most suitable wish for the child.
Volunteers also help at special events such as golf tournaments and walks. They have the opportunity to help implement fundraising programs at schools and in work places with the guidance of the Make-A-Wish staff.
Attendance at one four-hour training session is mandatory for all interested individuals. This training will familiarize the prospective volunteer with his or her duties to Make-A-Wish and our families. If interested, please call the Make-A-Wish office at 304.342.9474.
Make-A-Wish® Southern West Virginia is a non-profit organization that grants wishes to children, aged 2 ½ to 18, with life-threatening medical conditions. For more information, please call Make-A-Wish at (304) 342.WISH or visit its Web site at www.wishsouthwv.org
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