Who Founded Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish was founded in 1980 by Frank Shankwitz, along with a small group of volunteers and community supporters in Arizona. The organization began after they helped fulfill the wish of a young boy with a critical illness, aiming to bring hope and joy to children facing serious medical conditions.
How Make-A-Wish Grants Wishes
Make-A-Wish works with children diagnosed with critical illnesses and their families to identify a wish, such as meeting a role model, traveling, or experiencing a special event. Volunteer wish teams coordinate with medical professionals and community partners to plan and grant these wishes safely.
Impact and Global Reach
Since its founding, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 500,000 wishes in over 50 countries. The organization operates through local chapters and relies on donations from individuals, corporations, and fundraising events. Learn more about Make-A-Wish's mission and impact at wish.org.
