Our Chapter

Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada finances endeavors through corporate sponsorships, special events, foundation grants and individual contributions. However, we do not solicit funds by telephone and receive no federal or state funding. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, all contributions are deductible to the extent permitted by law. Our financial statements are audited locally by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP. 

At Make-A-Wish, we take our responsibility for the monies donated to our cause very seriously and are pleased to confirm that according to the fiscal year 2019 audit results, Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada spent 79% of every dollar on wish granting and related program expenses. Only 7% of every dollar was spent on management and general costs and 14% was allocated to public outreach. For full financial details please review our most recent  financial documents. 

• FY19 Form 990
• FY19 Audited Financial Statements
• FY19 Annual Report

We are proud to be a BBB  Accredited Charity Seal Holder, having met all 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. 

At Make-A-Wish, we are more than a great place to work — our work is life-changing. We are an inclusive and diverse group of people who, through a mosaic of backgrounds, thought and experiences, are united in purposeful work. We are fueled and guided by our values — values that are represented in the inspired people we work with and the life-changing work we do, every day. 

We are always on the lookout for great talent who share in our passion. If you are interested in a career or internship with Make-A-Wish, check out our current open positions. 

Currently Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada doesn’t have any job or internship opportunities, but continue to check back for future positions!

Humble Beginnings

Make-A-Wish® is the legacy of Chris Greicius, a 7-year-old boy from Phoenix, Arizona. Diagnosed with leukemia, Chris dreamed of being a police officer. His mother, Linda Pauling, knew leukemia would take his life, so she and a small group worked together to see if they could turn Chris’ dream into a reality. 

The events that transpired on April 29 inspired a wish movement, as Chris received a uniform, badge and spent time in a patrol car and even a helicopter! Chris’ infectious smile and want to help people inspired the group of “wish granters” so much that they didn’t want the day to end. 

Four-days later, Chris passed. That summer, Make-A-Wish was born and Chris’ legacy just beginning.  

In spring-1981, the founders granted their first “official” wish, Frank “Bopsy” Salazar, a 7-year-old diagnosed with leukemia, just like Chris. 

His wish was to be a fireman was granted. 

Stories like these inspired the masses and in 1983, Make-A-Wish became incorporated with chapters opening up across the nation, including our chapter founded by local businessman Frank C. Ramos. 

Chapter History

Since 1983, more than 9,000 wishes have been granted to children within our communities thanks to generous donors, community supporters and dedicated volunteers. 

While we follow the policies and guidelines of Make-A-Wish America, we operate as a separate 501(c)(3) organization where all funds raised by our chapter are used to fulfill our mission in the 45 counties we serve. 

We have regional offices in Fresno, CA and Reno, NV with our headquarters located in Sacramento, CA. However, our headquarters is more than just an office building.  

The Wishing Place

Imagine a special place where children can escape the rigors of treatment, transplants and never-ending tests.  Imagine a place where fear is replaced by hope. Imagine a place where dreams can be discovered and wishes become reality.  Imagine “The Wishing Place.” 

In 2009, The Wishing Place became a reality in Sacramento and is one of only six Wishing Places in the world!!  

https://youtu.be/edmx8PmbtuE  

The Wishing Place was created especially for wish children. The magic begins the moment a child enters the front door.  A “Galaxy of Stars” shines above with colored stars each commemorating a special wish child.   

The child then proceeds to “The Wishing Room” where writing on the walls, is encouraged!  Once that one true wish has been discovered, a magical key that only appears to a wish child, opens the door to “The Wishing Tower” where the anticipation begins. 

Tours are available! Learn more by contacting us at [email protected] or call 916.437.0206 or take a virtual tour: 

https://youtu.be/is6QLpYO6Ns