Becki Smith enjoyed working in the anti-domestic-violence community and helping homeless youth, but after 13 years she was looking for a change.

The opportunity to become a program manager at Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area seemed like the perfect fit to her, and to her former colleagues as well.

“It was so validating to hear my coworkers and clients say they were sad to see me go but couldn’t think of a more perfect place for me to work,” she says.

Becki's colleagues had it right, as in her almost 2 years with our chapter, she has discovered that she loves wish planning and being part of an amazing wish community.

“I couldn’t have found a better fit than being a wish planner,” Smith says. “I love being able to connect with families and bring them joy. It can’t get any better than that!"

It wasn’t too long into Becki's time with Make-A-Wish that the COVID-19 pandemic hit, adding many twists and turns to the wish planning process. “It’s been the year of flexibility and above all, CREATIVITY!” says Becki.

Two wishes that called for both flexibility and creativity were five-year-old Valeria’s wish to sing on stage and 13-year-old Sofia’s wish to be a pop star—both wishes that Becki was responsible for planning. Valeria’s wish required special approval from the Concord Pavilion and the city, well as building a volunteer AV crew from scratch. For Sofia’s wish, Becki had to set up Zoom calls to take the place of in-person vocal coaching and songwriting, and coordinate a mobile studio for safe recording right outside of Sofia’s home.

“I am in awe that these two wishes were granted at such a challenging time in the world, and I am so grateful for all the folks who stepped up to volunteer their time and expertise to make these wishes a reality,” Becki says. “Valeria and her family immediately won over my heart. Her wish day was a long day but one of my best days! And Sofia’s smile and energy are infectious, and her family is a delight to spend time with. We became fast friends.”

For Becki, the best part of wish planning is the special connection she makes with each family. “I really appreciate the vulnerable moments I can have with parents and their kids, even when we hardly know each other,” she says. “They put their trust in me to create a unique and exciting experience for them and to see all their smiles and hear about their experiences is truly the best!”