Make-A-Wish^® Central and Northern Florida

Orlando, FL — May 11, 2024 —Make-A-Wish® Central and Northern Florida hosted its highly anticipated 30th Annual Fields BMW Wishmakers Ball on Saturday, May 11th, at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Orlando. This black-tie gala, the largest of the organization's fundraising efforts, exceeded all expectations by raising an astonishing $1.3 million. 

The Wishmakers Ball, a cherished tradition now celebrating three decades of wish granting for the chapter, brought together community leaders and supporters from across the region to grant life-changing wishes for children facing critical illnesses. 

Throughout the evening, 980 guests, including 50 members of the wish alumni community, immersed themselves in festivities. From luxury experiences to exclusive memorabilia, both the silent and live auctions were highlights of the night offering something for everyone. Each winning bid contributed to the fundraising total. 

"This year's Wishmakers Ball surpassed our wildest dreams, both in terms of the funds raised and the collective spirit of compassion that filled the room," expressed Anne Cuba, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. "We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who played a role in making this year's Wishmakers Ball an extraordinary success." 

The $1.3 million raised during the event will directly contribute to fulfilling the wishes of children battling critical illnesses throughout the region. These wishes serve as beacons of hope, providing strength, joy, and cherished memories for wish kids and their families during challenging times. 

The success of the 30th Annual Wishmakers Ball would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors, including Fields BMW, Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, and VoLo Foundation, as well as the dedication of donors, volunteers, and attendees who wholeheartedly embraced the mission of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. 

About Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida: 
Make-A-Wish® Central and Northern Florida creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We seek to bring every eligible child's wish to life because every child deserves a childhood. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight their illness. Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and more than 24,000 volunteers across the nation, Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida and 57 other chapters throughout the U.S. have granted more than 360,000 wishes nationwide. For more information about Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida, visit wish.org/cnfl.