During National Volunteer Week (April 21-27, 2024), Make-A-Wish Illinois is recognizing and celebrating the contributions of several outstanding volunteers across the state who create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Make-A-Wish Illinois thanks these dedicated WishMakers who share their time and talent to bring strength and hope to wish children and their families through their varied and critical contributions.

Wish Volunteer Impact Award
Amy Gorecki and Carolyn Blanchette

Local Partnership Award
Teri Crawford

Exceptional Creativity Award
Sandy Spearman and Vera Edwards

Individual Commitment to Community Award
Alison Correll

Group Commitment to Community Award
Tim and Mary Lou Shanahan

Agile Award
Sheldon and Abby Kail

Volunteer Fundraiser Awards

• Community Events Organizer: Central Illinois Truck Convoy (Becky Kinman and Ashley Huelsing)
• Wish Ball Committee Member: Simon Landon
• Associate Board Committee Member: Branka Milicev
• Walk Committee Member: Madison Miller
• Youth Fundraising Group Award: Stephanie Koneig and Tim Morkert; Patton Elementary School

DEIB Change Maker Award
Rachida Aroussbai

Healthcare Partner Leadership Award
Savannah Morris

Thank you to everyone who nominated a volunteer for an award. It is our honor to recognize these outstanding individuals and we are inspired by the honorees and all of the other volunteers who were nominated. 

Pictured above from left to right:
Top Row: Sheldon and Abby Kail, Allison Correll, Amy Gorecki, Becky Kinman
Middle Row: Carolyn Blancette, Madison Miller, Rachida Arous, Simon Landon
Bottom Row: Teri Crawford, Tim and Mary Lou Shanahan, Tim Morkert, Vera Edwards
Not Pictured: Sandy Spearman, Ashley Huelsing, Branka Milicev, Stephanie Koenig