Make-A-Wish Illinois

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Make-A-Wish Illinois Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
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What started as a search for connection became something so much more. Since becoming a Make-A-Wish volunteer, a little ...
10/19/2026

What started as a search for connection became something so much more.

Since becoming a Make-A-Wish volunteer, a little over a year ago, Valerie has helped grant 10 wishes and helped more than 100 children discover their heartfelt wishes. Along the way, she’s found community, formed meaningful connections with wish families and learned to appreciate the little things.

Her dedication was recently recognized with the Rising Star Award during National Volunteer Week! ⭐

Thank you, Valerie, for showing what it means to be a WishMaker.

10/18/2026

Together, we create life‑changing wishes for children with critical illnesses but becoming a WishMaker often changes your life, too!

A wish is more than a moment. It's a source of joy, hope, and memories that last long after the wish comes true. Thank y...
10/15/2026

A wish is more than a moment. It's a source of joy, hope, and memories that last long after the wish comes true. Thank you to everyone who helps create experiences wish kids carry with them forever.

10/15/2026

At age 10, Darcie and her family were introduced to Make-A-Wish during one of their hospital appointments. From there the magic began.

“I loved learning what Darcie wanted to do,” her mom Angela said about discovering Darcie’s wish. A longtime fan of Disney, Darcie loves learning about Disney history and the hidden jokes and messages in the Disney books, movies and games. Darcie’s wish to visit Aulani, A Disney® Resort & Spa would combine her love for all things Disney with an exciting island adventure.

From the gifts and cards from Make-A-Wish volunteers during the lead up to her wish, to the special attention from the airline crew and exploring all the treats and wonders of the resort, Darcie’s heart is now full of wish memories to help her through the hardest times.

When Pharoah imagined his wish, he didn't ask for a faraway adventure. He wished for something closer to home. After yea...
10/13/2026

When Pharoah imagined his wish, he didn't ask for a faraway adventure. He wished for something closer to home.

After years of hospital visits, surgeries and uncertainty, he wanted a place where he could play with his friends and family again.

Today, his custom backyard playground is filled with laughter, games and family memories. "Now we have a way to create these bonds and memories that don't involve anything medical."

As the seasons change, we're reminded that some of life's sweetest moments happen right in our own backyard.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mike Ditka, a Chicago legend whose impact reached far beyond the football field...
10/12/2026

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mike Ditka, a Chicago legend whose impact reached far beyond the football field. Known for his leadership, passion, and dedication to his community, Mike was also a WishMaker who helped bring hope and joy to children facing critical illnesses.

His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched both on and off the field. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Ditka family, friends, and all who admired him.

Thank you, Mike, for helping make wishes come true. 💙⭐

10/11/2026

We are just one month away from Trees of Joy! Join us and bring joy to wish children and their families this holiday season.

When you adopt a tree, you will be matched with a wish child to create a one of a kind tree that matches their interests and imagination. At the event, you will reveal the tree to your wish kid and their family, hear their story and enjoy some holiday cheer. After the event, the trees are delivered to each family's home, where they can enjoy it for years to come.

Learn more at wish.org/illinois-63

10/10/2026

For Corbett, the greatest challenge wasn't understanding others. It was helping others understand him.

Because Corbett is non-speaking, he struggled to communicate with friends and family and often felt misunderstood. When asked what he wished for most, his answer was simple: he wanted the people he loved to understand him.

To grant his wish, “Camp Corbett” was created to help family and friends learn how to communicate with him using assistive technology and his unique communication style.

"I felt loved because my friends and family learned to talk with me."

This World Mental Health Day, we're celebrating the power of connection, belonging and being truly seen and heard.

Today, people everywhere are increasing the impact of their Donor-Advised Funds by giving together. If you have a DAF, t...
10/08/2026

Today, people everywhere are increasing the impact of their Donor-Advised Funds by giving together. If you have a DAF, this is your chance to join a nationwide wave of generosity and support Make-A-Wish Illinois.

A donor advised fund can help create life-changing wishes today while supporting wish kids for years to come.

Learn how to give at plannedgiving.wish.org/donor-advised-funds

Durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, celebramos las historias, culturas y experiencias que hacen única a nuestra comun...
10/07/2026

Durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, celebramos las historias, culturas y experiencias que hacen única a nuestra comunidad. Para Natalia, su deseo dejó una huella llena de amor, felicidad y recuerdos que llevará consigo para siempre.

Cada deseo refleja la fuerza, la esperanza y la alegría de los niños y familias que tenemos el honor de acompañar.

Address

200 W Monroe Street, Suite 1801
Chicago, IL
60606

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