During National Volunteer Week (April 19-25, 2026), Make-A-Wish Illinois recognized the contributions of several outstanding volunteers across the state who create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. These dedicated WishMakers share their time and talent to bring strength and hope to wish children and their families through their varied and critical contributions.

Belonging Champion Award

Honors a volunteer who fosters a sense of belonging within the Make-A-Wish Illinois community, helping volunteers, wish families, or staff members feel welcomed, included, valued, and respected.

Ruth Ziolkowski

Healthcare Partner Leadership Award

Presented to a healthcare partner who has gone above and beyond in volunteering their time and energy to extend our reach to their patients, who has championed the Make-A-Wish mission within their department and agency, and who has had a significant impact on the Make-A-Wish mission.

Angela Boomsma

Heart of the Wish Award

Presented to a volunteer who excelled in guiding and empowering their wish children to discover their most heartfelt wish, enabling us to deliver the most hope and joy for that child.

Lexi Dickerman

Power of the Wish Award

Presented to a volunteer who delivered a meaningful experience for their wish children and increasing the impact of their wish journey.

Rebecca Rijk

Rising Star Award

Presented to a volunteer with under two years in a given volunteer role who demonstrates a high level of engagement, dedication, and impact.

Kim Bradshaw & Valerie Villarreal

Volunteer Fundraiser Award

Recognizes a volunteer who committed a unique contribution through a fundraising campaign in the 2025 calendar year. This volunteer shows excellence in volunteerism by supporting the Make-A-Wish mission through raising critical resources.

Connor Sarver

Volunteer Leadership Award

Celebrates volunteers who take on leadership roles and inspire their other volunteers.

Michelle Whited

Volunteer of the Year Award

Honors a volunteer who embodies the spirit of volunteerism and has served as a source of inspiration for fellow volunteers, wish families, and/or Make-A-Wish Illinois staff. This volunteer has promoted a sense of community while serving as an ambassador and going above and beyond for the mission.

Todd Mueller

WishMaker Impact Award

Recognizing a volunteer whose extraordinary generosity of time, leadership, and philanthropy helps bring life-changing wishes to children and families.

Mike Warmuth

Youth Fundraising Group Award

Presented to a group of youth volunteers who contributed great efforts to a fundraising campaign in their community during the 2025 calendar year. This group shows excellence in volunteerism by supporting the Make-A-Wish mission through raising critical resources.

Oak Lawn Hometown Middle School - Teresa Loch & Sofia Georgelos