It all started with a wish...

Make-A-Wish Colorado was founded in 1983 in memory of seven-year-old Jennifer Mazak. Jennifer was waiting for a liver transplant and she dreamed of meeting a local radio mascot, the KIMN Chicken. One day, her mom, Joan, coordinated to have the chicken visit Jennifer at their home and the experience had a profound effect on Jennifer. Shortly after Jennifer passed away, Joan, founded the Colorado chapter of Make-A-Wish to bring that same hope and joy to other children in the state. 

We are reminded of Jennifer’s smiles each time we grant a wish. In 2023, Make-A-Wish Colorado celebrated its 40th Anniversary and since 1983, we have granted more than 7,000 wishes to children across the state.

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. 

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Make-A-Wish Colorado 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. 

Please see our Financial Statements here:

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

We are proud to have earned the GuideStar Gold Nonprofit Seal of Transparency, and a four-star rating on Charity Navigator.

Learn more in our 2025 Annual Newsletter!

Thank you to our donors for supporting us! Find a full list here.

Access news stories, background information and publications about Make-A-Wish and connect with our Communications team. 

Media Contact: Sarah Twomey stwomey@colorado.wish.org