Tyler Dickman, Chicago
Tyler Dickman first encountered Make-A-Wish Illinois through his employer, GATX, and the company’s long-standing support of the organization. He was able see the impact firsthand as wish kids visited GATX offices and the company sponsored many events where he could meet wish families. Those meetings became the catalyst to his involvement and volunteering with Make-A-Wish developed into something much more meaningful to him.
Tyler fundraised for Make-A-Wish Illinois as part of the Over the Edge event organized by the Associate Board.
“It started through work, but once you meet a wish child and hear their story, everything changes,” Tyler said. “You see what these families go through and how they keep going. It makes you want to do more.”
That desire to do more quickly grew into a deep commitment. In addition to being a wish volunteer, Tyler, who lives with his family in Chicago's Wrigleyville neighborhood, has been an active member and leader of the Associate Board of Make-A-Wish Illinois. The associate board is made up of young professionals whose focus is to fundraise in support of the wish granting efforts of Make-A-Wish Illinois.
“You think you’re giving something, but you end up receiving so much more,” he said. “The impact is real. It stays with you. It becomes something you need to keep doing because of how much it means to you.”
In recognition of his dedication, Tyler was recently honored with the 2025 Volunteer Leadership Award from Make-A-Wish Illinois. The award celebrates a volunteer who leads with compassion, consistency, and initiative, going above and beyond to make wishes possible.
Some of Tyler’s most powerful moments have come from simply being present. Hearing the stories, watching families come together during wish experiences, and witnessing the resilience of children has left a lasting impression on him.
Tyler (left) teamed up with Tom Barry to grant Goel's wish alongside local sponsor Autobarn Subaru of Countryside.
“There’s this shift that happens during a wish,” he said. “You see the stress lift off parents’ shoulders, even if it’s just for a day. The laughter, the smiles, it reminds you why it matters.”
When he heard about the award, Tyler was surprised and grateful. “It’s an honor. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of this. The people at Make-A-Wish work so hard to make these moments happen, and I’m just proud to be involved.”
Tyler’s approach as a volunteer reflects the values of Make-A-Wish.
“It makes you better,” he said. “A better father, a better colleague. It gives you a different perspective and a real sense of purpose.”
His advice to anyone thinking about volunteering is simple. “Just try it. Meet one wish family. Once you do, you’ll understand. You won’t want to stop. It’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.”
For Tyler, Make-A-Wish has become more than a cause. It’s a chance to bring hope to families, to create joy during difficult times, and to be part of something that makes a difference.