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Make-a-Wish America
Work Here?
Grants life-changing wishes for sick children
Make-a-Wish America
Work Here?
Grants life-changing wishes for sick children
Overview
Make-A-Wish America grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses through a nationwide network of volunteers, donors, and staff. When a child is eligible, a local chapter assesses interests and designs a wish, then a team coordinates planning, approvals, and execution with family and supporters, funded by donations. The organization uses travel, events, and experiences made possible by volunteers and partners, focusing on resilience and hope. Its goal is to grant a wish for every eligible child.
About Make-a-Wish America
Industries
Social Impact
Healthcare
Company Size
501-1,000
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Phoenix, Arizona
Founded
1980
Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Oak View Group commits $250,000 minimum via Round Up campaigns through August 2026.
- United Airlines matches 1 million miles donations through April 30, 2026.
- Ravenwood High raises $237,000 total since 2009 for local Disney wishes.
What critics are saying
- OVG round-ups at volatile venues like CFG Bank Arena slash funds on cancellations.
- United's flight simulators erode OVG venue wish novelty by September 2026.
- Starlight Foundation captures corporate donors with streamlined wish processes.
What makes Make-a-Wish America unique
- Grants wishes every 33 minutes via 302 weekly wishes for critically ill children.
- Secures global venue access through Oak View Group at 70+ arenas nationwide.
- Delivers aviation thrills via United Airlines' seven-hub Make More Wishes events.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
Vision Insurance
Dental Insurance
Wellness Program
Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Account
Health Reimbursement Account
Short Term Disability
Long Term Disability
Life Insurance
Accident
Critical Illness
Hospital Indemnity
Pet Insurance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
401(k) Company Match
Remote Work Options
Hybrid Work Options
Unlimited Paid Time Off
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Sabbatical Leave
Parental Leave
Volunteer Days
Employee Discounts
Laptop provided
Mentorship Program
Professional Development Budget
Conference Attendance Budget
Training Programs
Tuition Reimbursement
Professional Certification Support
Family Planning Benefits
Fertility Treatment Support
Adoption Assistance
Childcare Support
Elder Care Support
Employee Referral Bonus
Relocation Assistance
Meal Benefits
Phone/Internet Stipend
Home Office Stipend
Gym Membership
Wellness Program
Mental Health Support
Commuter Benefits
Stock Options
Company Equity
Performance Bonus
Profit Sharing
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Legal Services
Discounts and special offers for theme parks, events, hotels, concerts, and movie tickets
Caregiver Support
Volunteer Time Off
Company News
Make-A-Wish grants Gulfport woman's dream. April 6, 2026 by Trei Johnson Your support helps Thegabber tell Gulfport's stories. Now, more than ever, Thegabber need your help to keep The Gabber Newspaper alive. Its survival depends on readers like you. A Gulfport dock became the setting for something bigger than a boat ride on March 24. Instead, it became a moment of freedom. At Gulfport Mariner's Cove, a surprise celebration unfolded as the Make-A-Wish Foundation partnered with Freedom Boat Club to grant 20-year-old Stephanie Evers a one-year boating membership. As a result, she and her family can now spend more time on the water without the cost of ownership. A love for the water. For Stephanie, the wish was simple. She wanted to be on the water. "She's all about the treasure," her mother, Katerina Evers, said. "That's her thing - we're always looking." However, that sense of adventure follows a difficult beginning. Stephanie, who is adopted, faced significant medical and developmental challenges early in life. "When she came to us, she could hardly talk," Katerina said. "But she flourished." Now, Stephanie has graduated high school and is eager to explore new experiences. Most importantly, she wants to spend time outside, on the water, discovering something new. A family built on resilience. At the center of Stephanie's journey is her family. Katerina and Brad Evers have built a household of 14 children - 12 adopted and two biological. Together, they have created a home focused on care, patience, and opportunity. "She's had a tough start, but she's doing so well now," Brad said. "She's thriving and wants to try new things." Meanwhile, the family already spends time near Treasure Island, taking trips to nearby islands. In the future, they hope to try scalloping - something none of them has done before. More than a membership. Through the partnership, Freedom Boat Club provided a 12-month membership. Consequently, the family now has access to more than 400 locations worldwide, including 32 across Tampa Bay. For the company, the decision reflects more than business goals. "It's the right thing to do," General Manager Les Ares said. "When you hear a story like this and realize her wish is simply to be on the water, you want to make that happen." Even so, the emotional impact surprised many involved. "When you see their faces, it's amazing," Ares said. "There wasn't a dry eye on the dock." What this wish really means. Ultimately, the membership offers more than access to boats. It creates opportunities - for family outings, new experiences, and lasting memories. "She isn't picky about the boat," Brad said. "As long as she's in it." Now, the wish doesn't end at the dock. It begins every time she steps onto the water, chasing the treasures she's always dreamed of finding. The Gabber Newspaper? Yeah, Thegabber go there. Did you know: In 1968, its founder, George Brann, started The Gabber Newspaper, then called the Gulfport Gabber, to hold Gulfport City Council accountable. Read more of its city council coverage, and learn about its policies on reporting, fact-checking, and funding. Get all your Gulfport and Tampa Bay beaches news and things to do at thegabber.com. The Gabber needs your help to keep serving its community.
Ravenwood High students grant 6-year-old's Disney wish. * By Kelly Mayo - Staff Reporter * Apr 6, 2026 Updated Apr 6, 2026 * 0 * 2 min to read Ravenwood High School students granted a 6-year-old girl's wish in royal fashion during the school's annual Make-A-Wish event on Thursday, April 2. Blayne Nash and her family attended an assembly in the school gym, during which they found out they were going to Disney World. Students raised $25,000 throughout the school year to pay for the trip. After performances by the Mr. RHS Dancers and the student duo Emily and Sam, students dressed as Disney princesses, princes and other characters greeted Blayne and her family, flanked by members of the JROTC with swords drawn. The students then hosted a tea party for the family in the school library. Blayne has mucopolysaccharidosis type 1, also known as MPS-1 or Hurler Syndrome. It is a rare hereditary genetic disorder in which the body does not have enough enzymes to break down sugar molecules, which can cause skeletal abnormalities and cognitive development issues, among other symptoms. Blayne, her parents Michael and Courtney, her younger brother Hank and her grandparents all wore shirts to the assembly that advocated for a cure for MPS-1. The event marked the 17th year of RHS' partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which started when a freshman named Charlton Cratz was diagnosed with leukemia. Cratz's classmates raised money for him and his family to go to New York City to see the Dave Matthews Band in 2009. He died a few weeks after the trip, and the school started granting wishes to local Make-A-Wish kids in his memory. Student-planned efforts like the Mr. RHS pageant and the Christmas Wish event raise money for the annual Make-A-Wish goal. Stephanie Dykes, a math teacher who serves as advisor for Make-A-Wish-related events, described the impact a granted wish has on families. "[Cratz's] parents told me later that the trip, for them, meant the world because they could just pause," she said. "They didn't have to worry about doctor's appointments or what the future may hold, and they could just be together." Beth Torres, president and chief executive officer of Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee, said RHS has raised $237,000 to grant wishes since the partnership began. Assistant Principal Reggie Mason said this year's Make-A-Wish event was a "full-circle moment" for Michael Nash, who graduated from RHS in 2009. "This started because the community came together for a child who was going through a tough time," Mason said. "Now we get to support him, support his family and support his daughter." Nash agreed with Mason's statement. "Honestly, it's so surreal being invited back here after so many years," he said. "It's definitely full-circle." As for their plans for Disney World, Courtney Nash said, "I'm sure Blayne will have it all planned when we get there." RHS student Lilly Smith, who dressed as Merida from the Disney movie "Brave," said participating in the senior privilege of dressing up for the Make-A-Wish event meant a lot to her. "I have a lot of younger siblings," she said. "It's really sweet to help someone out, especially when we have the resources to do it." Seniors Lauren Anderson and Jenna Hammoud, who dressed as Princess Aurora from "Sleeping Beauty" and Princess Jasmine from "Aladdin," respectively, said the event was meaningful to them, too. "It's empowering and exciting to be able to give her what she wants, and that she be able to get a break from everything," Hammoud said. Anderson added that in addition to helping the Nashes, the event reminded her of her own love for the Disney princesses as a child. "It shows her that she's loved and seen by people," she said.
United Airlines creates holiday magic with fantasy flights. It's 4/4, time to Make a wish: United & Make-A-Wish to host 'Make More Wishes' events across nation, giving wish kids behind-the-scenes access to aviation. April 4, 2026Corporate Social Responsibility Airline plans 2026 events on May 5 (5.5), June 6 (6.6), July 7 (7.7), August 8, (8.8), September 9 (9.9), October 10 (10.10), and November 11 (11.11) United honors 40 years of supporting Make-A-Wish as the airline celebrates its 100th anniversary with immersive experiences across hub airports CHICAGO, April 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - United Airlines and Make-A-Wish today announced the launch of "Make More Wishes," seven immersive events across the U.S. giving children fighting critical illnesses and their families behind-the-scenes access to all aspects of aviation. The immersive experiences at each of United's hubs may include opportunities to spend time in flight simulators, experience inflight training for United's Flight Attendants, visit the ramp and Station Operation Centers, meet with pilots and more. When a month and day share a number, it's often considered a good time to make wishes or set an intention. Make More Wishes events will take place at each of United's seven hubs, culminating in United's hometown, Chicago, on 11/11, a day widely considered a symbolic moment to make a wish. * May 5, 2026 - Houston George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) Airport * June 6, 2026 - Washington Dulles International (IAD) Airport * July 7, 2026 - Denver International (DEN) Airport * August 8, 2026 - Newark Liberty International (EWR) Airport * September 9, 2026 - Los Angeles International (LAX) Airport * October 10, 2026 - San Francisco International (SFO) Airport * November 11, 2026 - Chicago O'Hare International (ORD) Airport "For 40 years, United has helped make thousands of wishes possible, building a legacy rooted in compassion, connection and impact," said Kate Gebo, United's Executive Vice President of Human Resources and Labor Relations and Make-A-Wish America national board member. "As we celebrate 100 years at United, we're expanding and deepening our commitment to these Make-A-Wish families by providing access to experiences and passions in addition to fulfilling wishes." "When a child with a critical illness travels for their wish, it can be a powerful moment for the entire family, often the first time they've felt hope in months," said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. "For 40 years, United's pilots, flight crews, employees, and customers have helped make those moments possible. Through travel and the Miles on a Mission(SM) program, United helps bring comfort, ease stress, and support the emotional well-being of children and families during an incredibly difficult time, helping more kids reach the place where their wish comes true." A Legacy of Impact Over more than four decades, United Airlines has partnered with Make-A-Wish to help grant life-changing travel wishes for children with critical illnesses. More than 75 percent of wishes involve travel, and United plays a critical role in making them possible with hundreds of wish families flown annually across its global network. Beyond flights, United employees volunteer their time to support families throughout the travel journey, as well as at wish events, fundraisers, and local chapter activities. From assisting families during travel to creating personalized send-offs and assembling Kynd Kits filled with comfort items and gifts, employees deliver support at every step of the journey. Its Customers' Impact United customers can join in supporting Make-A-Wish by donating miles or money through United's Miles on a Mission. MileagePlus(R) members can donate unused miles directly to Make-A-Wish, while customers can also make monetary donations. More than 10 million miles are donated each year through the Miles on a Mission platform. April is World Wish Month - the time of year when Make-A-Wish invites the world to join its mission. Wishes wouldn't be possible without the dedication and generosity of WishMakers of all kinds who take action for wish kids and make life-changing wishes come true. United will match customer donations up to 1 million miles through April 30, 2026, doubling the impact and helping grant even more life-changing wishes. Customers can become a MileagePlus member for free to begin earning and donating miles immediately. About United At United, Good Leads The Way. With U.S. hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., United operates the most comprehensive global route network among North American carriers and is now the largest airline in the world as measured by available seat miles. For more about how to join the United team, please visit www.united.com/careers and more information about the company is at www.united.com. United Airlines Holdings, Inc., the parent company of United Airlines, Inc., is traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol "UAL". SOURCE United Airlines Media package. Related releases.
Stingray Boats partners with Make-A-Wish South Carolina. Boat manufacturer debuts as Blue Carpet Sponsor of record-breaking Wish Night Gala, grants a life-changing boat wish, and leads an unforgettable on-water experience for guests Stingray Boats is proud to partner with Make-A-Wish South Carolina, a relationship rooted in the belief that when families come together to do what they love, it has the power to inspire, heal, and create lasting joy. The partnership made its public debut on March 14 at Wild Dunes Resort, where Stingray Boats served as Blue Carpet Sponsor of Wish Night 2026: A World of Pure Imagination. At the event, they helped grant the wish of 16-year-old Rutlee, a fishing enthusiast from Lake City, S.C. who received a camo 15-foot G3 Gator Tough Jon Boat in a surprise reveal that brought the entire gala ballroom to its feet. "We were honored to be a part of this fantastic event and look forward to a lasting partnership with Make-A-Wish," Chad Helms, President of Stingray Boats, said. "To come together as a community and with other S.C. organizations and be able to make a difference, there's nothing better. We're committed to sharing the joy of life on the water with kids and their families fighting critical illness." The partnership weekend unfolded across two days. On Saturday morning, Stingray brought two boats to Charleston and took Wish Kids, their families, and Wish Night guests out on the water. This experience reflected what Stingray does best: creating moments of joy and freedom out on the water for people of all ages and backgrounds. That evening, as Blue Carpet Sponsor, Stingray helped welcome hundreds of supporters to a historic night that raised $1,239,628. This record-breaking total will fund 165 wishes for children facing critical illnesses across South Carolina. The night's most powerful moment belonged to Rutlee, who lives with a liver disorder. A lover of fishing and the outdoors, Rutlee's wish was simple - a boat of his own. After sharing his story onstage with the ballroom full of guests, he was escorted outside, where his wish was waiting. The Make-A-Wish team revealed a camo 15-foot Gator Tough Jon Boat, made possible by Stingray Boats in partnership with Marshall's Marine, G3 Boats, Yamaha Outboards, Berkeley Outdoors, EZ Loader Boat Trailers, and Isle of Palms Marina. Guests inside watched via live video feed as Rutlee saw the boat for the first time. When he walked back into the ballroom, the crowd rose and declared together, "Rutlee, your wish is granted." More than 324 medically qualified children in South Carolina are currently waiting for their wishes to be granted, including 57 in the Lowcountry. Stingray Boats is committed to helping Make-A-Wish shrink that number. "Wish Night is where generosity becomes hope, courage becomes visible, and imagination becomes healing," said Shannon Rice, Regional Development Director for Make-A-Wish South Carolina. "We are grateful to Stingray Boats for bringing their passion for the water and their incredible network of partners to this mission. Together, we gave Rutlee something he'll remember for a lifetime." Stingray Boats and Make-A-Wish South Carolina look forward to growing this partnership in the years ahead. About Stingray Boats Founded in 1979, Stingray Boats is a leading manufacturer of fiberglass recreational boats, recognized for innovation, craftsmanship, and performance. With a legacy built on technology like the patented Z-Plane hull, Stingray continues to set benchmarks in efficiency, speed, and style. The company remains committed to advancing marine design while supporting a strong dealer network worldwide. For more information, visit www.stingrayboats.com. About Make-A-Wish South Carolina Make-A-Wish South Carolina creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Since its founding in 1984, the chapter has granted more than 4,700 wishes, bringing joy, hope, and strength to families across the state. More information is available at wish.org/sc. Media Contact: Hannah Bain PR Manager, Scribe CHS [email protected] (859) 544-5646
Make-A-Wish named a 2026 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner for employee engagement. Up next. Published on 19 March 2026 Recognizing Make-A-Wish for outstanding employee engagement and workplace culture. * Make-A-Wish celebrates employee engagement recognition. * The organization ranked among top workplaces worldwide. * This award showcases commitment to workplace culture. Make-A-Wish has been recognized with the 2026 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award, highlighting its commitment to employee engagement. This prestigious award is given to organizations that demonstrate a strong workplace culture and dedication to their employees. The recognition underlines how Make-A-Wish fosters an environment where its staff feels valued and motivated. The Gallup award is based on employee feedback and workplace metrics, showcasing the best organizations globally. Make-A-Wish stands out in the nonprofit sector for its ability to engage employees and maintain a supportive culture. Such recognition not only reflects the internal environment but also enhances the overall mission of granting wishes for children with critical illnesses. Winning the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award affirms Make-A-Wish's efforts to create a thriving workplace. This achievement is significant as it highlights the organization's ongoing commitment to improving employee satisfaction and engagement, which ultimately contributes to its nonprofit goals. You may also like. BD helps scientists advance immunology and cancer research with ai-powered insights and automation. Innovative automation enhances cancer research and immunological studies. AI-powered tools improve research... Pharmacelera raises $6M to expand in US and enhance drug discovery platform. Funding will support growth and technological advancements in drug discovery. Pharmacelera has... * February 18, 2026 Services PMI at 53.8 in January 2026, according to ISM report. January sees strong growth in services sector as PMI remains robust. Services... * February 4, 2026 NUNM receives $1.5 million gift to support campus expansion and future integrative medicine center. Major donation aims to enhance educational opportunities at NUNM. NUNM receives a... * February 28, 2026
Make-a-Wish America is Hiring for 7 Jobs on Simplify!
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About Make-a-Wish America
Industries
Social Impact
Healthcare
Company Size
501-1,000
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Phoenix, Arizona
Founded
1980
Make-a-Wish America is Hiring for 7 Jobs on Simplify!
Find jobs on Simplify and start your career today