With a growing number of families feeling more comfortable speaking in Spanish about things like their child's health journey or wish possibilities, it is more important than ever before to have a staff that models the make-up of our state.

We asked our staff to share with us why their Hispanic heritage means so much and how they use their background and values to support more and more wish kids in Arizona – regardless of background or language.

“I am proud of all the amazing contributions Hispanics have made to our community,” said Julieta Montejano, the Wish Referral Specialist for Make-A-Wish Arizona. “It’s because of all the hard work and sacrifices of those who came before me that I am where I am today.”

Carlos Inostroza, Senior Wish Manager, agrees.

"That creates a stronger bond and lets them know we care about where they come from and where they are going," Inostroza continued. 

There are two other Hispanic staff members who act as bilingual Wish Managers – Juliana Rengifo and Eduardo de Los Santos. And the Vice President of Wish Delivery (and the Wish Managers’ boss), Jennifer Gonzales, is also bilingual.

“Knowing the language, culture and Hispanic tendencies has allowed me to engage and build rapport that has proven crucial when granting the child’s one true wish,” said de Los Santos. “Families feel comfortable when you as a person can relate to their stories and culture.”

“Within Latin communities, people discover things through word of mouth and want to know about direct experiences,” continues Rengifo. “The more people who are aware of the possibilities and outcomes we provide by granting wishes, the more families and kids we can serve.”

"This common perception can keep away families and kids who could benefit from the impact a wish can have when a child is dealing with a traumatic medical experience," Gonzales continued. 

In the end, everyone on the team can agree on one thing – offering bilingual services has been a benefit for both Hispanic wish families and staff.

“The relief I hear in a parent or guardian’s voice when they can comfortably speak with someone in their native language is indescribable,” said Daniela Rios, Manager of Wish Referrals. “We want families to know that Make-A-Wish is a safe place and is inclusive of all people so that we can continue to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illness in every community in Arizona.”