Make-A-Wish Illinois announces Amber Nolan as the recipient of the 2022 Commitment to Community, Individual Award for creating connection and inclusion in the community by building awareness and support for wishes.

When her cousin Meg was granted a wish many years ago, it left a lasting impact on Amber and her entire extended family. Seeing how the experience uplifted Meg at the time, the wish holds warm memories for the family as it brought joy, strength and smiles when Meg needed them most. Sadly, Meg did not survive her condition, but the impact of her life and wish live on as Amber volunteers to bring life-changing wish experiences to children just beginning their wish journeys.

Involved with Make-A-Wish Illinois for more than 18 years, she was once an intern and even a staff member before stepping away for a brief time to spend time with her family. As a wish granting volunteer, Amber and her wish partner meet with families to guide them through the wish experience. A natural connector, Amber never misses a chance to invite those around her to get involved in supporting this cause she believes in.

“It’s something that’s so important to me and it is a part of me since I’ve done it for so long,” Nolan said.

Along with her extended family, Amber, her husband and their two daughters support Make-A-Wish through Team Meg at the annual Walk for Wishes. Through her connections in the community, she’s been able to make several local wishes very special from involving everyone from her children’s preschool to the local business community in creating unique wish experiences and boosts. She’s eager to connect those who want to help or need support from Make-A-Wish to the organization in a very positive and competent way.

“Amber will stop at nothing to make sure that wish families receive the support and joy their so desperately deserve,” said Amber’s longtime wish partner Jeannie Hendrie. “Amber's focus is always on the child, but she is also so supportive of the entire family.”

On continuing to volunteer for Make-A-Wish after all of these years, Amber says: “It’s a great example to my girls to show them that you can enjoy live and give back to others.”