After retiring from a 40-year career, Linda finally had time to pursue something she had always wanted to do: volunteer. Eager to make a meaningful, hands-on impact, she became a Wish Granter with Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas in 2009.

“I took the Wish Granter training and started by interviewing kids with a seasoned volunteer. That is the day my life changed. I saw strength, determination and most important, unfailing love. When their wishes were granted at a reveal party or departure party, I saw the end result. The smiles on their faces and the excitement in their eyes meant everything to me.”

From that moment on, Linda was hooked. Through each wish experience, she witnessed not only the challenges families face but also the extraordinary resilience and joy that defines them. Seeing a wish come full circle from the first conversation to the final celebration continues to be one of the most meaningful parts of her volunteer journey.

Over the years, Linda has helped grant many memorable wishes. She fondly recalls helping bring joy to wish kid David by building a wheelchair swing, assembling a bowling ramp, and creating space for him to play and laugh with others. For wish kid Eliana, Linda helped transform her room with bright, cheerful colors, turning a simple project into a day filled with laughter, connection, and joy.

Linda’s passion for wish granting has also inspired others in her life to get involved. A friend in Austin, a childhood neighbor, and even her partner have all become volunteers after seeing firsthand the power of a wish. What began as a personal calling has grown into a shared commitment within her community.

For our volunteers, such as Linda, every wish represents a chance to create a meaningful impact not only in the lives of wish kids and their families but also their entire community.