Volunteer FAQs

Why volunteer with Make-A-Wish Arizona?

By volunteering with Make-A-Wish, you’ll help transform lives for Arizona wish kids who are facing critical illnesses. A wish can mark a turning point in a child's treatment and, as a volunteer, you can provide that source of hope and joy for a kid and their family. There are many ways to get involved – whether it's promoting Make-A-Wish in your local community, helping a child discover their wish, or sending them off at the airport. Volunteers are an invaluable part of the Make-A-Wish community, and we always aim to give you the best experience possible when you volunteer with us.

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

The minimum age for volunteering in most of our roles, including Wish Granting, Airport Greeter, Special Events, and Office support, is 18. If you are interested in youth volunteering opportunities, please click here for more information about our Kids For Wish Kids program and Youth Leadership Council.

What is required to become a volunteer?

Due to the nature of our work, select volunteer positions require the successful completion of a criminal background check every three years and a yearly conflict of interest and confidentiality agreement. Make-A-Wish Arizona does not employ or utilize as a volunteer any individual who has been convicted of a crime that (a) victimizes children, (b) is sexual in nature, or (c) involves violence, fraud, or significant theft.

Please contact us at volunteer@arizona.wish.org with any questions related to past convictions and/or our background screening process.

How do I apply or get started?

STEP 1: Submit a Volunteer Application
Begin your journey by submitting a volunteer application here. After your application is
reviewed, approved applicants will be invited to continue with the onboarding
process.

STEP 2: Create an Account in Our Online Volunteer Portal
After approval, you’ll receive instructions to create an account in the Wish & Volunteer
Center, our exclusive online hub for volunteers.

STEP 3: Register for a 1-Hour Volunteer Orientation
Log in to the portal and choose an orientation session that fits your schedule. This
virtual training introduces you to our mission, history, and volunteer opportunities.

STEP 4: Complete a Volunteer Interview
Following orientation, a 30-minute virtual interview will be scheduled with a member of
our team to learn about your interests and ask questions that help prepare you for the
volunteer roles you're interested in.

STEP 5: Complete Your Volunteer Profile
Once your role is determined, you’ll gain access to your volunteer account to complete
your profile and finalize onboarding details.

STEP 6: Complete a Background Check
Many volunteer roles require a criminal background check and an annual conflict of
interest and confidentiality agreement. Click here to learn more about our volunteer roles and requirements.

STEP 7: Attend Role-Specific Training
Training dates and times will be shared after your background check is processed.
These sessions prepare you for the responsibilities of your volunteer roles.

Are there virtual and in-person opportunities?

We work with kids and families across the state of Arizona but volunteers have the opportunity to meet with families virtually or in-person.

What is the time commitment required?

The level of commitment depends on the type of volunteer role and how much time you would like to dedicate. Click here to learn more about our volunteer types and current opportunities.

Do you offer group volunteer opportunities for companies/employees?

Yes! If you are interested in getting involved with your organization or company, please email us at info@arizona.wish.org.

How many wishes does Make-A-Wish Arizona grant each year?

Last fiscal year, we granted a record-breaking 450 wishes for Arizona children with critical illnesses. This year, our goal is to grant 475 wishes!

How many wish kids are currently waiting?

Right now, more than 600 children in Arizona are waiting for their wish.

Are there bilingual/multilingual volunteer opportunities?

Yes! Please be sure to specify any additional language(s) during your onboarding process.

Are there high-need areas of the state for volunteers?

Yes! Make-A-Wish Arizona grants wishes statewide. We have a high concentration of need for volunteers in Southern and Northern Arizona.

Are you interested in becoming a Make-A-Wish Arizona volunteer? Complete our Volunteer Interest Form below!

Helpful Resources

Volunteer

Current Volunteer Opportunities

Alumni festival volunteers

Upcoming Orientations & Trainings

Playhouse wish - bernie asea

How to Get Started