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

Since being founded locally in 1985, Make-A-Wish Illinois has granted more than 17,000 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 2023 Make-A-Wish Illinois Annual Report (PDF)

Fiscal Year 2023 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

Senior Accountant

The senior accountant executes general accounting functions, including but not limited to timely, complete and accurate processing of bank deposits, accounts payables, accounts receivable, wish in-kind gift entry, payroll, and monthly ledger account analysis and reconciliation. Supporting financial reporting and analyses, the role additionally supports all financial compliance functions, including but not limited to, external and internal audits and corporate tax filings. This role collaborates closely with the accounting manager and senior director of finance to support day-to-day accounting operations and contribute to the organization’s financial stability and transparency. Apply online.

Internships

Please check back for internship postings in 2025.