Olivia Schwab, Chicago
Make-A-Wish Illinois announces Olivia Schwab of Chicago as the recipient of the 2021 Wish Volunteer Impact Award for a volunteer who has created a lasting impact throughout the entire wish journey for a wish granted last year.
A wish is not just a moment in time, it is a journey of joy, hope and resilience that can provide a lifelong impact. A wish-granting volunteer since 2017, Olivia truly understands the power of the full wish journey embraces the opportunities to bring smiles whenever she can with the children she is helping.
Last year, Olivia helped to grant Isabella’s wish to be an actress.
“Olivia has been all in with her support of our family and Make-A-Wish,” said Isabella’s mom Amy, adding that Olivia and her wish partner Tracy would stop by with fun things for Isabella and her brother. Olivia even attended one of Isabella’s theater performances to support her.
Isabella’s wish was perfect for her because Olivia was able to truly understand her and work with Make-A-Wish staff to craft a unique experience. Isabella’s family is not alone in thinking Olivia is a wish granting superstar. Other alumni families echo the sentiment and Make-A-Wish staff also see Olivia’s passion and sustained efforts through her other volunteer and fundraising efforts both as an individual and as a member of the Associate Board.
Olivia with wish child Clara in 2019
“Volunteering with Make-A-Wish has brought so much joy and many lifelong relationships into my life,” Olivia said. “I’m still in communication with tons of my wish families. It’s incredible being able to see them years after their wishes are granted.”
“She really is a hero and a model ambassador for Make-A-Wish,” Amy added.