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    Make-A-Wish Foundation
    Non-profit

    Make-A-Wish Foundation

    United States flagUnited States

    "The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with critical illnesses."

    Founded 1980 Phoenix, Arizona
    Community

    About

    The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to granting the wishes of children battling critical illnesses. Since its founding in 1980, the organization has aimed to create life-changing wishes that provide hope and strength to these children and their families. Operating out of Phoenix, Arizona, Make-A-Wish coordinates its efforts through a network of 58 chapters across the United States. Internationally, Make-A-Wish International works with affiliates in nearly 50 countries, extending its mission globally.

    The foundation's impact is amplified by a vast community of supporters, including dedicated staff, countless volunteers, and generous donors. While the organization reports a small number of employees, its reach and effectiveness are a testament to the power of collective effort. Revenue figures indicate its substantial operational capacity. The foundation's work transforms challenging circumstances for children into moments of joy, courage, and lasting memories, offering a vital source of optimism during difficult times.

    Mission

    The mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. These wishes are intended to provide children and their families with hope, strength, and joy during incredibly challenging times. By fulfilling these dreams, the organization aims to offer a vital respite from medical treatments and anxieties, fostering resilience and positive experiences that can have a lasting impact on a child's well-being.

    History

    The Make-A-Wish Foundation began its journey in 1980, sparked by a simple yet profound idea to help a young boy named Frank 'Bopsy' Solomon, who was battling leukemia. A group of caring individuals, including U.S. Customs Service agent Bob Cooper, Arizona Department of Public Safety pilot Bob Smith, and numerous volunteers, rallied to fulfill Bopsy's dream of becoming a police officer. This initial wish, born out of compassion and a desire to bring joy into a child's difficult life, laid the foundation for what would become a global organization.

    From these humble beginnings, Make-A-Wish grew steadily, establishing chapters across the United States and eventually expanding its reach internationally. The organization's evolution has been marked by a continuous commitment to its core mission, adapting and growing to meet the needs of more children facing critical illnesses. Over the decades, Make-A-Wish has partnered with countless individuals, corporations, and community groups, each contributing to its ability to grant an ever-increasing number of wishes. The legacy of Bopsy's wish continues to inspire the organization's efforts to bring hope and happiness to children worldwide.

    Notable People

    John Cena

    Wish Granter

    Has granted over 650 wishes, the most by any single individual.

    Milestones

    1980

    Make-A-Wish Foundation founded.

    Make-A-Wish International established, extending the mission to children in nearly 50 countries.

    Sources

    Organization Info

    Founded
    1980
    Headquarters
    Phoenix, Arizona
    Country
    United States
    Type
    Non-profit
    Revenue
    $0.1 billion
    US Chapters
    58
    International Affiliates
    Nearly 50 countries

    Financials

    Revenue
    $0.1 billion
    Employees
    9

    Official Website

    wish.org/

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