Access news releases, background information and recent news about Make-A-Wish and connect with our Communications team. 

Discover the incredible stories of the WishMakers who fuel the Make-A-Wish mission. Tune in every month as we delve into the power of a wish, the unwavering dedication of volunteers, and the transformative experiences that shape lives forever. Beyond the Wish is available on our YouTube channel or wherever you subscribe to podcasts.

Since being founded locally in 1985, Make-A-Wish Illinois has granted more than 18,000 wishes and continues its mission to share the power of a wish^® with children in all 102 counties across the state. 

Life-changing wish journeys are made possible by dedicated staff and more than 1,000 caring volunteers who help each child discover, create, fulfill, and experience the lasting impact of their most heartfelt wish. 

Support for Make-A-Wish comes from generous individual, corporate and foundation donors.

At Make-A-Wish^® Illinois, our vision is to grant the wish of every eligible child. It is our mission to create life-changing wishes for every child with a critical illness, and create an impactful wish journey for them. 

Make-A-Wish Illinois finances endeavors through corporate sponsorships, special events, foundation grants and individual contributions. However, we do not solicit funds by telephone and receive no federal or state funding. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, all contributions are deductible to the extent permitted by law. Our financial statements are audited locally by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP.   

At Make-A-Wish, we take our responsibility for the monies donated to our cause very seriously and are pleased to confirm that according to the fiscal year 2024 (September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2024) audit results, the Make-A-Wish Illinois program service expense ratio was 73 percent. 

We are proud to be a BBB Illinois Accredited Charity Seal Holder, having met all 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. 

For full financial details please review the following: 

Current Financial Statements

Fiscal Year 2024 Make-A-Wish Illinois Annual Report (PDF)

Fiscal Year 2024 Make-A-Wish Illinois Audited Financial Report (PDF)

2023 Make-A-Wish Illinois Federal Form 990 (PDF)

At Make-A-Wish, we are more than a great place to work — our work is life-changing. We are an inclusive and diverse group of people who, through a mosaic of backgrounds, thought and experiences, are united in purposeful work. We are fueled and guided by our values — values that are represented in the inspired people we work with and the life-changing work we do, every day. 

We are always on the lookout for great talent who share in our passion. If you are interested in a career or internship with Make-A-Wish, check out our current open positions. 

Staff Positions

• Corporate Gift Officer (Full Time- Hybrid - Chicago): This role responsible for securing new corporate partners and managing a portfolio of existing local and national accounts to achieve a team revenue goal of $1.9M. The strategic focus of this role will be on employee engagement (WishMakers at Work), event sponsorships, and mission support in the Chicagoland area. Apply online.
• Development Services Manager (Full Time - Hybrid - Chicago):  This role manages the development support areas for efficient and effective operation. Development support areas include research, prospect management, gift processing, stewardship, reporting, and maintaining or developing operational practices and procedures for use by development team. Additionally, this role manages revenue tracking, budgeting, and forecasting for the development department. Apply online.
• Grants & Planned Giving Officer (Full Time- Hybrid - Chicago): The Grants and Planned Giving Officer identifies grant opportunities, writes compelling proposals, manages relationships with foundations and advisors, and ensures compliance with grant and estate administration requirements. This role reports to the Director of Individual Giving. Apply online.
• Wish Creation Manager (Full Time - Hybrid - Chicago):  The Wish Creation Manager leads a team of coordinators to design and fulfill meaningful wish experiences for children and their families. This role ensures each wish is uniquely tailored while upholding the operational policies and guidelines set by our chapter and Make-A-Wish® America. Working cross-functionally with chapter staff, volunteers, and partners, this role strategically leverages resources to create impactful, unforgettable experiences for every child. Apply online.

Internships

Please check back for summer internship postings in late March 2025.