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12022 | Our Year in Wishes I wish to have a playsetCaroline, 5 genetic disorderPinehurst, NC page 6I wish to go to Gatlinburg, TNWaylon, 5cancerConnelly Springs, NC page 21Transform Lives, One Wish at a TimeOUR YEAR IN WISHES I wish to go to Boca RatonJaime, 12 rare diseaseMount Holly, NC page 13LOLLYSLENS PHOTOGRAPHY
2Our Year in Wishes | 2022 TYLER NOELCALEB ELIZAROSSELYNFRANCISTRENTTROYAUBREYJOSÉJACECHARLYCALLIREMIJOSEPHSAMIRMADISONMAXAIDENANNALOUKAS95% of wish alumni felt more hopeful for their future aer their wish.**2022 Wish Impact SurveyTogether, we granted 280 life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
32022 | Our Year in Wishes TYLER NOELCALEB ELIZAROSSELYNFRANCISTRENTTROYAUBREYJOSÉJACECHARLYCALLIREMIJOSEPHSAMIRMADISONMAXAIDENANNALOUKAS95% of wish alumni felt more hopeful for their future aer their wish.**2022 Wish Impact SurveyTogether, we granted 280 life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
4Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Kathy Jetton President and Chief Executive OfficerTogether, we createlife-changing wishes or children with critical illnesses.® MISSIONFROM OUR PRESIDENT & CEOLooking back on 2022, I can’t help but marvel at how far we’ve come. Coming out of two years spent tackling a global pandemic — and granting fewer wishes than normal due to stalled travel — our chapter roared back in 2022, granting nearly 300 wishes.While we never stopped creating hope for wish kids and their families, we did undergo two challenging years of uncertainty. However, 2022 was the year that we got the green light and officially declared that we were 100% back in business. We resumed full operations by granting all four acknowledge your pivotal role in our triumphant comeback. Without your overwhelming support, our work each day wouldn’t be possible, and we wouldn’t have been able to change the lives of nearly 300 local children with critical illnesses in 2022. That’s why hope begins with us — not just our chapter, but our volunteers, our wish granters, our donors, our supporters — ALL of us. While we come from all walks of life, we’re one giant team children with critical illnesses who need it most. wish granting. We are well on our way to achieving these goals, but we still need your help more than ever. For many reasons, the cost of an average wish has grown to approximately $7,500. While we are granting wishes at an exceptional level, it’s still an uphill climb as we continue to process the backlog of wishes that resulted from the pandemic. When children’s wishes are dreamed of, planned, and then granted, it provides them with the strength they need to fight their critical illness and all of the anxiety and pain that comes with it. They replace fear with confidence, sadness with joy, and anxiety with hope. With your help, we can give even more hope to our wish kids and their families at a time when they need it most. But we can’t do it without you. Because, after all, hope begins with all of us.Kathy
52022 | Our Year in Wishes Table of ContentsIMPACT OF A WISH“Oh-My-Goodness!” ................ 6-7Powerful Wishes ......................8-9Wish Inspires a Career in Cancer Research ............ 10-11INSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.Q&A with Dr. Douglas Scothorn .......12-13Our Year in Review ............. 14-15Financials ......................................172021-2022 Events ............... 18-21The Power of a Wish ................ 22Become a Volunteer .................23JOIN MAKE-A-WISHLooking Forward .........................242023 Calendar of Events ......... 25Donors.................................... 26-29Ways to Give .............................. 30At a Glance ...................................31I wish to go toSan FranciscoFrancis, 16congenital heart diseaseKannapolis, NCBoard of DirectorsWhile the world has endured many challenges over to exemplify undeniable passion and dedication for what we do best. We are incredibly proud to share that, during 2022, we resumed wish granting for all four wish types. Now, we are heading into 2023 full Terri Zandhuis Board Chair Chief People Officer Krispy KremeSteve Baruch Vice Chair Executive VP & Chief Marketing Officer MSC IndustrialGlenn Tynan Treasurer Retired VP & Chief Financial Officer Curtiss WrightWendy Barnes Secretary CEO RxBenefitsPeter Smul Governance Chair Chief Operating Officer Varda PartnersChristine M. Bolen, MD Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology St. Jude Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital Karl Doerre President Doerre ConstructionTrent Haston President and CEO The Roby Family of CompaniesVanessa Heiskell Children’s Service Line Timitra Hildebrand-Jones Matt Johnson Division Executive Private Wealth Management Executive Vice President SunTrust BankGeorge Jurch, III Will Manning Senior Vice President North Carolina Market Executive Private BankAbhishek (AJ) Ratani MentorCarolyn Roach Management Jeff Ross CFO BNI (Business Networking International)Leigha Smith Market President/Senior Vice President Encore BankAmanda Stophel CEO Service ProsWhitney Trout Director, Compensation & Benefits Harris Teeter, Inc.52022 | Our Year in Wishes From the Board ChairTerri ZandhuisBoard Chairspeed ahead, granting wishes at a ferocious pace.granting, and we will do everything we can to reach this impactful goal. This includes asking for your support. To continue to make wishes come true for local wish kids, that now cost an average $7,500 due to inflation, amazing things, but together our power is unmatched. Now, let’s work together to harness that power and prove that hope can endure for our wish kids, at a time when they need hope and resiliency most.
6Our Year in Wishes | 2022 I wish to have a playsetCaroline, 5genetic disorderPinehurst, NCIMPACT OF A WISHGoodness!”6Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Wish kid Caroline began having seizures when she was just six months old. Shortly after, Caroline was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called tuberous sclerosis, which causes tumors to shrink and grow inside of her brain. Caroline and her parents’ days now revolve around constant doctors’ appointments and MRIs, monitoring the progress of her condition. For someone with her diagnosis, Caroline gets along very well, with almost no motor function issues. She does, however, have trouble speaking, and until a year ago, she did not speak or understand many words at all. When Caroline’s mom realized her daughter might qualify for a wish, she jumped on the opportunity to create some joy for her daughter. who loves to play outside. She adores going to the playground and playing on the slides. Her favorite activity at the park is to swing as high as she can on the swing set. For her wish, Caroline wanted to have her own playset so that she could swing and play in her own backyard. Caroline was so happy after her wish was granted. She couldn’t stop giggling as she went down the slide and ran around her new playground.
72022 | Our Year in Wishes “Make-A-Wish truly did impact our family on Caroline’s Wish Day. We were so thrilled to see her happy. When you have a child with health problems and developmental delays you live for the good days, and we had the best day thanks to Make-A-Wish.”90%of wish kids say that their wish made them feel more joyful and confident99%of medical providers say that a wish improves a child’s 90%of wish parents say that a wish relieved their family of traumatic stress* 2022 Wish Impact StudyMedical Impact of a Wish*Caroline with her mom and dadGoodness!”Caroline’s wish would not have been possible without the support of donors like you. When asked what shared, “We will always have this wonderful, happy memory thanks to your donations. We could never thank you enough for giving our family this gift!” Said Caroline’s mom, “Seeing Caroline’s wish come true was such a sweet moment for our family. When we pulled up and she saw her play set, she was so excited and just was so thrilled as a mom to see my girl so happy, and she was loving all the attention on her!”Caroline’s wish provided her with a chance to be a child again and to was granted, her parents shared what the wish meant to them. our family on Caroline’s Wish Day. We were so thrilled to see her happy. When you have a child with health problems and developmental delays, you live for the good days, and we had the best day thanks to
8Our Year in Wishes | 2022 LincolntonGreensboroWebsterDallasMeet Wish Kid Cutter out his 2014 Toyota Tundra so that he can cruise Cutter could not believe his eyes when he saw his truck. It looked like a completely different vehicle with a new bumper, tires, and a lift kit. Cutter enjoyed meeting all of the mechanics who worked on his vehicle and couldn’t put into words what this experience meant to him. has granted more than 5,500 wishes since its inception in 1985. We seek to bring every eligible child’s wish to life because a wish is an integral changing experiences of Cutter, Hannah, and Johanna show us just how powerful a wish can be.WishesPOWERFUL95% of wish parents said their wish improved their family’s well-being.**2022 Wish Impact SurveyI wish to have my truck remodeledCutter, 17lymphomaWebster, NCIMPACT OF A WISH
92022 | Our Year in Wishes LincolntonGreensboroWebsterDallasMeet Wish Kid JohannaWish kid Johanna’s smile is contagious. It’s impossible to be sad around her friendly and kind personality. Johanna was diagnosed with epilepsy from a young age. Due to her disability, Johanna often misses out on the simple joys of childhood. For her wish, she wanted to spend time with family and explore someplace new. She wished to go to Sevierville, TN and stay in a cabin.Johanna loved the carefree time away with her family. Her whole family enjoyed visiting the waterpark, aquarium, and museum, and they especially enjoyed going on all of the rides together. Meet Wish Kid Hannahher family felt like their world had ended. Their days quickly started to revolve around constant doctors’ appointments and chemo treatments. While being treated at Brenner Children’s Hospital, Hannah and her family learned that Hannah qualified for a wish. loves to dance and perform. Her favorite musical is the smash hit Hamilton. Hannah decided that the perfect wish would be to go to New York to see Hamilton on Broadway and enjoy the city at experience was had by all! I wish to go to Sevierville, TNJohanna, 8nervous system disorderDallas, NCI wish to go see Hamilton on BroadwayHannah, 10leukemia
10Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Wish Inspires a Career in Cancer ResearchMeet wish kid Savanna, a recent college graduate and future doctor. Her wish to have a horse was granted in 2015. Now, she dreams of becoming a doctor to help design new cancer treatments that can help kids like herself. We were lucky enough to have the chance to interview Savanna about what her wish meant to her. Looking back on your wish, what did it mean to you to have your wish come true? experience that I looked forward to before it was granted, and looked back on when I credit my wish with my full recovery. My horse Ollie, was my shoulder to cry on, my the drive to keep pushing myself to get stronger. Tell us about why you wanted to personally give back and help kids with cancer. will allow me to design new treatments for cancer and other chronic illnesses.Why do you think it is important to support Make-A-Wish?It isn’t just about the wish. It’s about making kids feel like there is something them. They’re an incredible force of good in the world. What would you say to someone who currently supports Make-A-Wish? children’s lives. Q&A WITH WISH ALUMNI SAVANNA I wish to have a horseSavanna, 15 cancerSummerfield, NCIMPACT OF A WISH
112022 | Our Year in Wishes 95% of wish alumni felt more hopeful for their future after their wish.**2022 Wish Impact Survey112022 | Our Year in Wishes
12Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Dr. Douglas Scothorn, MD, PhDChairman of National Make-A-Wish® Medical Advisory Council, Mission Health, Asheville, NCINSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.Q&A with Dr. Douglas ScothornHow long have you been involved with Make-A-Wish? Can you share serving one term on the Board. I was only peripherally involved (primarily emergence from COVID. One of the most important things that I have learned as a physician taking is not enough to make life better for them. While medical treatments are important in treating their illnesses, the hope and joy created through that the mind, body and spirit all must work together for healing and, in my experience, there is nothing better at healing the mind and spirit than a wish. How are chapters and Make-A-Wish America making changes to reach wish kids in underserved areas?children in underserved areas is one that I face on a daily basis. This challenge has been exacerbated tremendously by the COVID pandemic: both with and community events due to public health concerns. approaches. One approach, which has been very successfully used in this “One of the most important things that I have learned as a physician taking care of children with life-threatening and critical illnesses is that medicine is not enough to make life better for them.”
132022 | Our Year in Wishes MEET WISH KID JAIME12-year-old Jaime wished to go to Boca Raton, FL. She loves marine life and going to the beach. On her wish trip, Jaime and her family were able to spend lots of time relaxing at the beach, snorkeling, and exploring the Palm Beach Zoo. She even got to pet a sea turtle! When wish kids are granted a wish, they gain more than just a great experience for a day, two days, or a week. They create memories and moments of joy that they can look back on when things get tough.chapter, has been to coordinate wish visits with medical visits, to both place concerns with the families regarding “strangers” in their homes. of the children whom we serve, with respect to issues including language, diversity and inclusiveness is not just talk; it is an intrinsic and vital piece of our mission. insight into the challenges which our wish kids face, that cannot be easily understood by those of us who have been fortunate enough not to have Talk to us about travel reemergence and what that means for our chapter/has certainly been dramatically affected by it. From the beginning of the wish kids and their families. Now that effective vaccinations and medical based approach to emergence from the travel limitations and restrictions, which were put in place during the early days of the pandemic. So far, our emergence plan has been successful, but we recognize that ongoing vigilance will be required to ensure the we can continue to provide the best and safest wishes to all of our kids. 93% of medical providers said the wish experience strengthens their relationship with their patients.* *2022 Wish Impact Survey132022 | Our Year in Wishes I wish to go to Boca RatonJaime, 12 rare diseaseMount Holly, NC
14Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Our Year in Review Cancer Nervous System Disorder Other* Congenital Heart Disease Endocrine Disorder Blood Disorder Neuromuscular Disorder*All other medical conditions with less than 2%MEDICALCONDITION49%17%9%5%5%8%7% Brenner Children’s Hospital Levine Children’s Hospital Atrium Health Novant/St Judes Others UNC Children’s Hospital Duke Children’s Hospital Mission Children’s HospitalREFERRALS BY HOSPITAL23%23%16%12%10%6%5%5% To G o To Ha v e To Meet To B eWISH TYPE48%48%3%1%The Fiscal Year 2022 Report represents all the progress and strategicinitiatives that we have worked on this past year to positively impact lives.We worked tirelessly every day to create opportunities for children and theirfamilies to experience the impossible. 13Electronics Most Popular Wishes Based on data from August 31, 202272 Travel66Disney50Shopping Sprees22Trailers/Campers INSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.14Our Year in Wishes | 2022
152022 | Our Year in Wishes ............ 3 ............ 0 ..................... 1Caswell ................ 2Davidson ...........12Davie .................... 3Forsyth ..............24 .............23Hoke ..................... 1Moore .................. 3Randolph ............. 8Richmond ............ 1Rockingham ........ 1Scotland .............. 2Stokes .................. 2Surry ..................... 1Wilkes .................. 5Yadkin .................. 0 Western Region40Wishes Granted County Based on data from August 31, 2022Wishes Granted by Region Based on data from August 31, 2022Charlotte Region148Triad Region92Triad Region .................... 0Buncombe ........15 Burke .................... 2Caldwell............... 3Cherokee ............. 0Clay ...................... 0 ................ 1Haywood ............ 0Henderson .......... 5Jackson ................ 1Macon .................. 2Madison .............. 1McDowell ........... 6Mitchell ............... 0 Polk ...................... 1Rutherford .......... 1Swain ................... 1Transylvania ........ 1Yancey ................. 0Watauga .............. 0Western Region............ 3 ................... 1Cabarrus ............10Catawba .............. 3Cleveland ............ 5 ...............18Iredell ................. 12Lincoln ................. 4Mecklenburg .... 64Montgomery ...... 2Rowan ................ 11Stanly ................... 3 .................11Charlotte Region* Nash 1100% of medical providers said the wish experience emotional well-being.* *2022 Wish Impact SurveyWith your help, last year we created 280 life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.152022 | Our Year in Wishes
16Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Each wish requires an incredible amount of cost of a wish rises, we have a tremendous need for resources to help us close the gap between the number of wishes we are currently able to grant and the number of wishes we need to grant to achieve our mission to grant the wish of every qualified child in our territory.Children with critical illnesses need your help today.The average cost of a wish has increased from $6,000 to $7,500$7,500 FY 2022$6,000 FY 2021INSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.95% of wish alumni said their wish improved their overall quality of life.**2022 Wish Impact Survey16Our Year in Wishes | 2022
172022 | Our Year in Wishes Total Revenue Year ended August 31, 2022 (Unaudited Financials)FinancialsCash & Investment Revenue $4,549,070 Cash Expenses $4,075,322 Total Revenue $5,742,704 Total Expenses $4,979,43649%21%17%17% Events $2,474,549Cash Revenue Breakdown Wishes Waiting by RegionWestern Region77Charlotte Region301Triad Region148We need to do more.We will do more.But we need your help.172022 | Our Year in Wishes
192022 | Our Year in Wishes 18Our Year in Wishes | 2022 INSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.Working with local sponsors on events is a wonderful opportunity for strong brands to come together to impact local communities. Together, we can engage with the public and highlight how corporate support transforms lives. The Wish Ball is our annual signature ‘blue tie’ gala. The event brings donors, volunteers, and wish families together for an awe-inspiring evening of making wishes come true for children with critical illnesses in Central & Western North Carolina. Wish Ball guests can expect a memorable night with silent and live auctions, raffles, Fund-A-Wish opportunities, and dinner, drinks, and dancing. Of course, the evening wouldn’t be complete without a few special wishes being shared, too. For the first time since 2019, we were able to welcome our guests back in-person and shared the magic with those at home via a live stream of our program. This year, we made chapter history by raising $1.4 million for local wish families. The impact generated by our generous supporters guarantees that 187 children will experience the healing power that a wish experience provides. We look forward to the 2023 event, where we will celebrate our 20th anniversary of the Wish Ball! Learn more at ncwishball.org. Events2021-2022WISH BALL$1,400,000 raised. 187 wishes granted.Over the course of two hike weekends, we had 166 hikers complete 28.3 miles in ONE life changing day — raising $464,732 for our Make-A-Wish chapter! These funds will assist in granting 62 wishes for local children with critical illnesses. The challenge in Trailblaze Challenge is two-fold: physical and philanthropic. While hikers train to take on the full 28.3 miles, they are also tasked with raising vital funds to help us create life changing experiences for children in Central and Western North Carolina.At the 2022 event, we had the pleasure of hosting our Title Sponsor, DLP Capital, for their first Trailblaze Challenge experience, and we look forward to working with them in the future! Are you ready to take on the Challenge? Visit trailblazechallenge.org for more informaon. The Kentucky Derby Classic is a memorable and inspiring afternoon that encompasses all things Derby, while raising funds to make life-changing wishes possible! The event includes a live and silent auction, Sports Book style bidding on your favorite horse, inspiring stories from local wish families, wine & spirits pull, best hat and attire prizes, and watching the Kentucky Derby live-streamed during the event. This year, we raised $358,000 at Derby! That means 48 wish kids who are currently waiting will be able to experience the power of a wish in the upcoming year. The highlight of the afternoon was watching 3-year-old wish kid Luca’s wish come true — he was granted the wish of a mini goldendoodle puppy: his new best friend, Bear! Learn more about the 2023 event at kentuckyderbyclassic.org. TRAILBLAZE CHALLENGE$462,732 raised. 62 wishes granted. KENTUCKY DERBY CLASSIC$358,000 raised. 48 wishes granted.
192022 | Our Year in Wishes 18Our Year in Wishes | 2022 INSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.Working with local sponsors on events is a wonderful opportunity for strong brands to come together to impact local communities. Together, we can engage with the public and highlight how corporate support transforms lives. The Wish Ball is our annual signature ‘blue tie’ gala. The event brings donors, volunteers, and wish families together for an awe-inspiring evening of making wishes come true for children with critical illnesses in Central & Western North Carolina. Wish Ball guests can expect a memorable night with silent and live auctions, raffles, Fund-A-Wish opportunities, and dinner, drinks, and dancing. Of course, the evening wouldn’t be complete without a few special wishes being shared, too. For the first time since 2019, we were able to welcome our guests back in-person and shared the magic with those at home via a live stream of our program. This year, we made chapter history by raising $1.4 million for local wish families. The impact generated by our generous supporters guarantees that 187 children will experience the healing power that a wish experience provides. We look forward to the 2023 event, where we will celebrate our 20th anniversary of the Wish Ball! Learn more at ncwishball.org. Events2021-2022WISH BALL$1,400,000 raised. 187 wishes granted.Over the course of two hike weekends, we had 166 hikers complete 28.3 miles in ONE life changing day — raising $464,732 for our Make-A-Wish chapter! These funds will assist in granting 62 wishes for local children with critical illnesses. The challenge in Trailblaze Challenge is two-fold: physical and philanthropic. While hikers train to take on the full 28.3 miles, they are also tasked with raising vital funds to help us create life changing experiences for children in Central and Western North Carolina.At the 2022 event, we had the pleasure of hosting our Title Sponsor, DLP Capital, for their first Trailblaze Challenge experience, and we look forward to working with them in the future! Are you ready to take on the Challenge? Visit trailblazechallenge.org for more informaon. The Kentucky Derby Classic is a memorable and inspiring afternoon that encompasses all things Derby, while raising funds to make life-changing wishes possible! The event includes a live and silent auction, Sports Book style bidding on your favorite horse, inspiring stories from local wish families, wine & spirits pull, best hat and attire prizes, and watching the Kentucky Derby live-streamed during the event. This year, we raised $358,000 at Derby! That means 48 wish kids who are currently waiting will be able to experience the power of a wish in the upcoming year. The highlight of the afternoon was watching 3-year-old wish kid Luca’s wish come true — he was granted the wish of a mini goldendoodle puppy: his new best friend, Bear! Learn more about the 2023 event at kentuckyderbyclassic.org. TRAILBLAZE CHALLENGE$462,732 raised. 62 wishes granted. KENTUCKY DERBY CLASSIC$358,000 raised. 48 wishes granted.
20Our Year in Wishes | 2022 CAROWINDS BLUE MILKSHAKE of World Wish Day this year. The shake was Carowinds and raised over $5,000 dollars. the wish that inspired the creation of celebrated in a big way, with an Blue Milkshakes & Doughnuts, and a $20,000 match from a generous longtime donor. INSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.EventsWORLD WISH DAY CELEBRATION AT CAROWINDSThank you to all the wish families and volunteers wonderful performance.
212022 | Our Year in Wishes NEW KRISPY KREME PARTNERSHIP IN THE NEWSThank you to all of the amazing media partners who helped us promote World Wish Day. In partnership with to secure media spots with Queen City News, WCCB, and MEET WISH KID WAYLON5-year-old Waylon from Connelly Springs, NC loves the outdoors. During his cancer treatments, Waylon and his family would often go on outdoor adventures when things got hard. For his wish, Waylon wished to go to Gatlinburg, TN to enjoy the mountains and visit Dollywood. His family loved mining for gold, relaxing in the outdoors, and spending time together away from doctors’ appointments and treatments. When wish kids are granted a wish, they gain more than just a great experience for a day, two days, or a week. Waylon’s wish will bring him and his family joy for years to come. I wish to go to Gatlinburg, TNWaylon, 5cancerConnelly Springs, NC212022 | Our Year in Wishes
22Our Year in Wishes | 2022 In 2011, some of the staff from Shamrock Environmental, the founded in 1994, met with a team restaurant in Clarksburg, WV. That was the meeting that really sealed “Once you hear one story or see the impact a wish makes on one child, how can somebody not want to help?” meaningful wish that was revealed poodle and played with her the entire day. The young girl’s wish was to go princesses to the farm to reveal that her wish was being granted.company party at her farm, and the highlight would be a surprise wish reveal for a local child. Wish kids would come to the farm and and enjoy the festivities of the day alongside Shamrock employees.company’s culture. Employees would often ask, ‘When are we going to donate a wish this year? What will it be?’ In response, she would tell them, “We’re able to do this because of you.”four healthy children, and I am aware “I just can’t imagine how anyone could see a sick child and not want to help them. I can’t imagine.”and wish child so happy, it makes brainer to bring this level of joy to a child, family, community and my workplace.”They’ve been business partners since 2004 and recently got married two years ago. . The average cost of a wish is $7,500, and it is estimated that Gail has granted hundreds of wishes through her donations and time spent fundraising on the Kentucky Derby Classic committee. However, what Gail has given Make-A-Wish and local wish kids goes beyond that: The impact from the amount of hope and joy she has created is truly immeasurable.Sometimes, giving back transforms our lives in ways joy can not only impact a wish child and their family — but a whole community.The Power of a WishGail Buchanan KiserINSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.
232022 | Our Year in Wishes 22Our Year in Wishes | 2022 VolunteerBECOME AWISH GRANTERWish Granters partner with a Make-A-Wish staff member to meet with the family and determine a child’s wish. WISH BOOSTERWish Boosters help increase the anticipation and excitement of the wish by creating meaningful experiences such as countdown calenders, a car parades, special gifts, signs, etc. SPANISH-SPEAKING VOLUNTEERBilingual volunteers help us ensure that we are reaching all qualifying families within our region and that we are able to grant as many wishes as possible. SPECIAL EVENTS VOLUNTEERSpecial Events Volunteers help with our signature events throughout the year. Event volunteers help day-of, help solicit auction items and help increase event participation. SKILL-BASED VOLUNTEERSkill-Based Volunteers use their professional skills to help grant wishes. Skills like photography, videography, landscaping, interior design, and more. FUNDRAISING VOLUNTEERFundraising Volunteers help Make-A-Wish make connections with companies, individuals, foundations, and the community. Your time and talents are critical to bringing strength and hope to wish kids.Make-A-Wish volunteers consider their work impactful and meaningful. By helping us get closer to granting the wish of every eligible child, our volunteers are at the heart of every wish experience. Volunteers even have the freedom to choose when and how they would like to transform lives in their communities.In 2011, some of the staff from Shamrock Environmental, the company that Gail Buchanan Kiser founded in 1994, met with a team member from Make-A-Wish at a restaurant in Clarksburg, WV. That was the meeting that really sealed the deal for Gail, jump starting her relationship with Make-A-Wish. “Once you hear one story or see the impact a wish makes on one child, how can somebody not want to help?” Gail remembers one particularly meaningful wish that was revealed at her farm. The wish kid loved Gail’s poodle and played with her the entire day. The young girl’s wish was to go to Disney World, and Gail and the Make-A-Wish team invited Disney princesses to the farm to reveal that her wish was being granted.For years, Gail would host a company party at her farm, and the highlight would be a surprise wish reveal for a local child. Wish kids would come to the farm and ride in Gail’s Gator, pet the animals, and enjoy the festivities of the day alongside Shamrock employees.Over the years, Gail worked to make Make-A-Wish a part of the company’s culture. Employees would often ask, ‘When are we going to donate a wish this year? What will it be?’ In response, she would tell them, “We’re able to do this because of you.”Gail has four daughters: Christine, Jennifer, Brittany, and Ashley. “I have four healthy children, and I am aware and blessed by that,” says Gail. “I just can’t imagine how anyone could see a sick child and not want to help them. I can’t imagine.”Gail continues, “To see the parents and wish child so happy, it makes it all worthwhile. It’s really a no-brainer to bring this level of joy to a child, family, community and my workplace.”Gail says Make-A-Wish is just as important to her husband, Greg. They’ve been business partners since 2004 and recently got married two years ago. “Make-A-Wish is my favorite non-profit”, says Gail. The average cost of a wish is $7,500, and it is estimated that Gail has granted hundreds of wishes through her donations and time spent fundraising on the Kentucky Derby Classic committee. However, what Gail has given Make-A-Wish and local wish kids goes beyond that: The impact from the amount of hope and joy she has created is truly immeasurable.Sometimes, giving back transforms our lives in ways we never imagined. Long-time donor and volunteer Gail Buchanan Kiser shares her story of how hope and joy can not only impact a wish child and their family — but a whole community.The Power of a WishGail Buchanan KiserScan to learn more about volunteering for Make-A-Wish Central and Western North Carolina.INSPIRE HOPE. TRANSFORM LIVES.www.wish.org/nc/volunteer
24Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Going forward in 2023, one of our chapter's main goals is to education on the referral process as part of our efforts to reach every eligible child, regardless of geography, socioeconomic status, race, or illness. While our referrals for wishes generally decreased during the pandemic, our goal remains to find every eligible child, especially those who might have been missed during COVID. We hope to further our reach outside the hospital settings and expand to educate medical providers in clinics and more remote medical offices, so that we can connect with every child a Medical Outreach and Intake Manager, whose role is to educate the medical community throughout our territory on current national eligibility criteria. This position will also oversee the referral intake process in an effort to help solidify relationships with local medical providers, ultimately increasing and diversifying our referral sources. Our ultimate goal in 2023 is to ensure equitability in wish granting in its entirety, from the initial referral to the completion of the wish. We remain focused and dedicated to our mission to grant a wish to EVERY eligible child within our community. MEET WISH KID LANGLEYBefore Langley’s cancer diagnosis, her family was supposed to go to visit her aunt and uncle in Cincinnati. This trip was postponed thanks to chemo treatments, the pandemic, and Langley’s compromised immune system. When Langley found out she was being granted a wish, all she wanted to do was to travel and visit her aunt and uncle again. Langley loves being outside and animals, so while in Cincinnati, her family explored the Cincinnati Zoo, as well as the aquarium. Langley loved seeing all of the animals and the interactive exhibits.Langley’s favorite part? Hugging and kissing her aunt and uncle again. I wish to go to Cincinnati to see familyLangley, 4leukemiaWeaverville, NCForwardLOOKINGOur ultimate goal in 2023 is to ensure equitability in wish granting in its entirety, from the initial referral to the completion of the wish.
252022 | Our Year in Wishes 24Our Year in Wishes | 2022 JOIN MAKE-A-WISHMark Your Calendar!WISH BALLFebruary 24, 2023The Westin601 S College St, CharlotteThe Wish Ball is Make-A-Wish Central & Western North Carolina’s signature blue-tie gala, where we celebrate the life-changing impact of a wish. This year, Make-A-Wish supporters will have the ability to support the Wish Ball in-person at The Westin in Charlotte by purchasing a sponsorship or choosing the opportunity to participate from home. The night will include:• Silent and live auctions• Raffle and Wine Pull• Inspiring stories from our local wish families• Seated dinner and dancing at The Westin• Opportunities to make life-changing wishes possibleSave the date for our 2023 event on February 24 at 7:30 PM, and visit ncwishball.org or contact events@nc.wish.org to learn more. CHOOSE JOY! GOLF TOURNAMENTAPRIL 13, 2023The Valley Golf Course1005 Indian Valley Dr., BurlingtonWe invite you to be a partner in our mission by becoming a Choose Joy! Golf Tournament sponsor. Please look through our sponsorship benefits to learn more about how you can align your business with one of the nation’s top charitable brands and make an impact on children right here in the community.Email jlawson@nc.wish.org or visit https://bit.ly/choosejoygolf for more information about becoming a sponsor of this event. KENTUCKY DERBY CLASSICMay 6, 2023Summerfield Farms3203 Pleasant Ridge Road, SummerfieldOur chapter’s signature fundraising event in the Triad, the Kentucky Derby Classic, traditionally brings together over 400 guests from across Greensboro and surrounding communities to celebrate the Power of a Wish®. A memorable and inspiring afternoon, the event encompasses all things Kentucky Derby, complete with live and silent auctions, “betting” at the Sportsbook, delicious tasting stations and a bourbon bar featuring classic mint juleps by GIA: Drink. Eat. Listen., a riveting hat contest, live stream of the Run for the Roses, and unique wish surprises! More information about our 2023 event to come! Please contact jlawson@nc.wish.org if you’re interested in getting involved.TRAILBLAZE CHALLENGEMAY 19 - JUNE 11, 2023The Trailblaze Challenge is an endurance event where participants tackle 28.3 miles of the Foothills Trail in one life-changing day! This is a hike, not a race, and it caters to all levels, from novice to advanced outdoor enthusiasts.Along with being an extraordinary physical test, the true challenge is to raise much needed funds to grant the wishes of children in Central & Western North Carolina with critical illnesses. The 2023 Spring Hikes will take place May 19-21 & June 9-11. The Fall Hike is October 13-15.Each Trailblazer will be asked to raise funds to cover their expenses and to help Make-A-Wish continue its mission of granting wishes of children who are diagnosed with critical illnesses. Make-A-Wish staff will be there every step of the way to help with fundraising. If you are interested in an upcoming hike, contact Emily Gibson at events@nc.wish.org or call 704.469.4663.2023 EVENTSVisit nc.wish.org for more information on these events and to learn how you can get involved! Going forward in 2023, one of our chapter's main goals is to find new and non-traditional referral sources and to continue providing education on the referral process as part of our efforts to reach every eligible child, regardless of geography, socioeconomic status, race, or illness. While our referrals for wishes generally decreased during the pandemic, our goal remains to find every eligible child, especially those who might have been missed during COVID. We hope to further our reach outside the hospital settings and expand to educate medical providers in clinics and more remote medical offices, so that we can connect with every child who has a critical or life-threatening illness. We have added to our team a Medical Outreach and Intake Manager, whose role is to educate the medical community throughout our territory on current national eligibility criteria. This position will also oversee the referral intake process in an effort to help solidify relationships with local medical providers, ultimately increasing and diversifying our referral sources. Our ultimate goal in 2023 is to ensure equitability in wish granting in its entirety, from the initial referral to the completion of the wish. We remain focused and dedicated to our mission to grant a wish to EVERY eligible child within our community. MEET WISH KID LANGLEYBefore Langley’s cancer diagnosis, her family was supposed to go to visit her aunt and uncle in Cincinnati. This trip was postponed thanks to chemo treatments, the pandemic, and Langley’s compromised immune system. When Langley found out she was being granted a wish, all she wanted to do was to travel and visit her aunt and uncle again. Langley loves being outside and animals, so while in Cincinnati, her family explored the Cincinnati Zoo, as well as the aquarium. Langley loved seeing all of the animals and the interactive exhibits.Langley’s favorite part? Hugging and kissing her aunt and uncle again. I wish to go to Cincinnati to see familyLangley, 4leukemiaWeaverville, NCForwardLOOKINGOur ultimate goal in 2023 is to ensure equitability in wish granting in its entirety, from the initial referral to the completion of the wish.
26Our Year in Wishes | 2022 INDIVIDUAL & CORPORATEThank You, Donors Carol Lindsey and Jason BakerRobin and Quint BarefootTammie and Robert BeattyNancy and Charles BeemerLisa and Jay BiehlJennifer and Nate Boozer Shannon and Ron BradfordSharon BrittTracy and Jason BrittMichelle and Bob BruggeworthJennifer and Richard BruningChristina and Billy BuchananLauren BuchananLynn and Randy BuchananCory BoytePaul BuehlerBronwyn BurlesonChristopher CadyTed CampbellMike and Rita CarletSherlon CoinerTony Collins Scott CottrillSharon CoyLesley and Ken CrabbVani and Tim CravenRose and Bill CummingsJon DalyRachel DalyCatherine DaubekTammy and Matt DeBoerCourtney DeckerBruce DickBen DobsonKathryn and Richard DunnTerri EngleJohn EvansLinda FoglemanSusan FranklinJennifer and Mike FrenoKellie and Richard HagamanElizabeth and Bram HallMeredith and Jay HarrisTerri HarrisSusan and Jeff HartmanRagan and Trent HastonDavid HauflerKim HendersonBrad HicksChelsea HockadayJulie HoganKristina and Tom HoopsKelly HughesMichelle and Duane InskeepSteven IsraelDean JacksonKathy JettonMary JohnsonMelissa and Matthew JohnsonCasey and Trenton JohnstonMichelle KeenanBruce KibbeyKevin KiernanNelson Kincaid Dave LingafeltVickie and Ron LivingstonJoshua LyerlyBuddy LyonsLeslie and Joseph MarusEmily MasseyNancy and Brad MatthewsJoe MausKelly and Mark McDonaldSusan and Earl McFerrinMichael McVickerMike ModlinDavid MorganLori and Christopher NelsonKathy NivenBrookelyn NormanJr and Summer NunnJohn OlmsteadLane OstrowMeredith and Robert ParfetReena and Chirag PatelLynn PatsolicJosh PattPaula Payne Haynes PeeryBelinda PikeKathleen PikeringPatty PotterJimmy PowellSean QuinnJennifer ReichertRobert RhinehartMary RiceDonna RichardsonMason RobertsRick and Britt RubyDanielle and Chris RussoRobin and Jack SalzmanBetsy and Henry SantosErin SantosCaroline and Jerry SchroederJay SelleLawrence ShaheenCynthia and Jeff ShockRon SimonKristen and Mick SlatteryCraig and Holly SmithJustin SmithDebra and Peter SmulEdward SullivanDon Swaim Chris SwangerMarcia and Joe TakacsMichael TerryDwight ThomasMichelle Titus William Van MeterBrad WahlShasta and Craig WebberSybil WestINDIVIDUAL DONORS *donations of $2,500 or more as of August 31, 2021
272022 | Our Year in Wishes FOUNDATIONSBrian and Janie Mahoney FundBaruch Family Charitable FundBeatty Charitable FundBroyhill Family Foundation, Inc.Carroll Family Foundation, Inc.David and Nicole Tepper Charitable FoundationDekelboum Family FoundationFoundation for the CarolinasHall Foundation, Inc.Highway 55 Charitable Foundation, IncHunter Hometown FoundationLee Chou Family FoundationLongleaf FundLowrance Family FoundationMansfield Family FundFamily Foundation, IncNational Christian Foundation PiedmontOlivia Strong FoundationSheetz Family CharitiesTempleman EstateThe Blanche and Julian Robertson Family FoundationThe Chidsey Family Charitable FundThe Dale Jr. FoundationThe David E. Maguire Foundation Inc.The Estate of Ronald MeltonThe Isabella Santos FoundationThe Jack Runnion FoundationThe Jay and Maxann Collins FundThe Kevin Lipton Family FoundationThe Leon Levine FoundationThe Lyon Foundation, Inc.The Mary E. Carnrick FoundationThe Peninsula Community FoundationThe Tynan Family Charitable FundTrue Homes FoundationTara and Mark WheelihanSayfonh WhitfieldSandra and Barry WinslowDanielle and Jeff WitherspoonCarly WrennDarcy WrightBrion YarnellJanine YassINDIVIDUAL DONORS, continuedLake Norman Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram was the Presenting Sponsor of the 2022 Not only did owners Jack Salzman and Robin Smith-Salzman sit on the Wish Ball Committee, but they also pledged and added $50,000 to fund more local wishes. Through contacts and vendors of their own, they helped raise an additional $120,000 for the event, impacting the lives of over 200 wish kids and their families.
28Our Year in Wishes | 2022 The Quility team always puts clients and community first. Following up on a historic online fundraising campaign in 2021, the With nearly 1,200 virtual attendees, Quility pushed the limits of their online platform in route to raising over $200,000 for our chapter, granting over 26 local wishes in the process!CORPORATE DONORSBarefoot and CompanyBB&T Now TruistBeacon InsuranceBlackhawk HardwareCapital One Services, LLCCarolina ConcreteCarolina PanthersCarowindsCentral Carolina ConcreteCharlotte FCCity Electric Supply Co.Cone Health FoundationContinental TireCopper Innovations, Inc.Corning IncorporatedCypress NetworksDarnall Sikes Wealth Partners, LLCDave and Buster’sDavis Site WorksDelicato VineyardsDenard Enterprises, Inc.DoTerraDrypro Basement SystemsDuke Energy Business Services, LLCEdwards, Church & Muse, Inc.Envision MillworkExpress ScriptsFirst Citizens Bank and Trust CompanyFirst HorizonFoothills Marine, Inc.Fox RothchildHappytail PuppiesHarkey Tile & Stone, LLCHarrah’s CherokeeHarris Teeter Inc.Highways & Skyways of NC, IncHome Technology SolutionsICON EV, LLC North CarolinaITC Millwork, LLCJersey Mikes SubsJohnson Brothers Liquor CompanyKingdom DemolitionKrispy KremeLake Norman Chrysler Dodge Jeep RamLake Norman Transportation Services, Inc.LeoTerra DevelopmentLift Waste ManagementLPL Financial FoundationMacy’sMatthews Specialty VehiclesMcIntosh Law FrimMerrill LynchMichael Waltrip Racing
292022 | Our Year in Wishes restaurants for their loved ones to enjoy. They might not have realized that their purchase also helped grant wishes for local children with critical illnesses. Local Chick-fil-A Operators presented a check for $128,104.25 to Make-A-Wish of Central and Western Carolina, helping the organization grant over 16 wishes to local children. her family and spoke about the impact of a wish.Midrex Technologies, Inc.Mint Hill Cabinet ShoppeMorgan StanleyMSC Industrial SupplyNFPNovant HealthParty City PepsicoPhillip’s CollectionPinnacle Plumbing Solutions, IncPinnacle RoofingPoyner Spruill, LLPPublixPure BarreQueen City Lumber & Supply Co.QuilityRalph Lauren Corporation the CarolinasRice ToyotaSchiffman JewelersSmokey Joe’s CafeSouthern ValleySpectrum BuildersSteele’s MechanicalSubaruSwing KingThe Trust Company of the SouthThe Core TrainingThermo King Central CarolinasTito’s Handmade VodkaTruist Vann’s Welding & Ornamental Works, IncVerigentVolvo Finanical ServicesWheels for WishesWilliams Holding CorpWolfe HomesWomble Bond DickinsonWXLY, LLC“We are so grateful to Make-A-Wish for giving Lucia and so many other kids that hope, confidence, and sense of possibility when it is needed most!”I wish to go to Disney WorldLucia, 8cancer
312022 | Our Year in Wishes 30Our Year in Wishes | 2022 DONATE When you donate, you’re giving children a renewed strength to fight their illnesses. We accept gifts: online, by check, by credit card, and through donor-advised funds. You can also make a stock gift.wish.org/nc/giveCORPORATE ENGAGEMENT Your company can grant wishes through innovative campaigns, cause marketing programs, customized sponsorship opportunities, generous financial contributions, and in-kind support. corporategiving@nc.wish.org GIFT CARD DRIVE We are always in need of gift cards to boost the wish experience and help offset wish costs.corporategiving@nc.wish.orgMONTHLY GIVINGBy enrolling in monthly giving, you can become a Wishmaker and provide hope and joy for wish kids every month of the year. You can conveniently enroll online or by mail. wish.org/nc/monthly W.I.S.H. SOCIETYJoin an elite group transforming the lives of local kids battling critical illnesses. As a W.I.S.H. Society Member, you can donate, volunteer, and network with others who are passionate about our mission year-round. ncwishsociety.orgPLANNED GIVING Planned giving ensures your legacy lives on through wishes. By including a gift to Make-A-Wish in your estate plan, you help bring hope, strength, and joy to future generations of children with criticial illnesses. giving@nc.wish.org WISH YOUR WAY Each year, Make-A-Wish supporters raise thousands of dollars through fundraisers that match their passions. We provide the website and tools to help you succeed.site.wish.org/yourway047THERE ARE SO MANYWays to GiveScan and donate to help us give more children the confidence, strength and hope that comes with a wish.MAKE-A-WISH CENTRAL & WESTERN NCAt a Glance5,600Wishes Granted$2,474,549We were awarded $2,474,549 in Grants to help fund wishes for children in our community with critical illnesses.OFFICE LOCATIONSCHAPTER HQ217 E. Tremont Ave.Charlotte, NC 28203TRIAD OFFICE6522 Airport Center Dr.Greensboro, NC 27409We serve 51 counties in North Carolina and are 100% local.Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.MAKE-A-WISH® MISSIONWish kids waing to receive their wish.VOLUNTEERS150Want to know more? Scan QR code above.@makeawish_cwnc@ncwish@makeawish_cwncinfo@ncwishLet’s Connect!JOIN MAKE-A-WISHDONATE STOCK A gift of appreciated stock can benefit you in two ways: you receive a charitable income tax deduction for the full fair market value, and at the same time, avoid capital gains taxes.wish.org/nc/donate-stockwww.wish.org/nc/givewww.nc.wish.org
312022 | Our Year in Wishes 30Our Year in Wishes | 2022 DONATE When you donate, you’re giving children a renewed strength to fight their illnesses. We accept gifts: online, by check, by credit card, and through donor-advised funds. You can also make a stock gift.wish.org/nc/giveCORPORATE ENGAGEMENT Your company can grant wishes through innovative campaigns, cause marketing programs, customized sponsorship opportunities, generous financial contributions, and in-kind support. corporategiving@nc.wish.org GIFT CARD DRIVE We are always in need of gift cards to boost the wish experience and help offset wish costs.corporategiving@nc.wish.orgMONTHLY GIVINGBy enrolling in monthly giving, you can become a Wishmaker and provide hope and joy for wish kids every month of the year. You can conveniently enroll online or by mail. wish.org/nc/monthly W.I.S.H. SOCIETYJoin an elite group transforming the lives of local kids battling critical illnesses. As a W.I.S.H. Society Member, you can donate, volunteer, and network with others who are passionate about our mission year-round. ncwishsociety.orgPLANNED GIVING Planned giving ensures your legacy lives on through wishes. By including a gift to Make-A-Wish in your estate plan, you help bring hope, strength, and joy to future generations of children with criticial illnesses. giving@nc.wish.org WISH YOUR WAY Each year, Make-A-Wish supporters raise thousands of dollars through fundraisers that match their passions. We provide the website and tools to help you succeed.site.wish.org/yourway047THERE ARE SO MANYWays to GiveScan and donate to help us give more children the confidence, strength and hope that comes with a wish.MAKE-A-WISH CENTRAL & WESTERN NCAt a Glance5,600Wishes Granted$2,474,549We were awarded $2,474,549 in Grants to help fund wishes for children in our community with critical illnesses.OFFICE LOCATIONSCHAPTER HQ217 E. Tremont Ave.Charlotte, NC 28203TRIAD OFFICE6522 Airport Center Dr.Greensboro, NC 27409We serve 51 counties in North Carolina and are 100% local.Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.MAKE-A-WISH® MISSIONWish kids waing to receive their wish.VOLUNTEERS150Want to know more? Scan QR code above.@makeawish_cwnc@ncwish@makeawish_cwncinfo@ncwishLet’s Connect!JOIN MAKE-A-WISHDONATE STOCK A gift of appreciated stock can benefit you in two ways: you receive a charitable income tax deduction for the full fair market value, and at the same time, avoid capital gains taxes.wish.org/nc/donate-stockwww.wish.org/nc/givewww.nc.wish.org
32Our Year in Wishes | 2022 Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.MAKE-A-WISH MISSIONwww.nc.wish.org