Staff Spotlight

Staff Spotlight: Carleen Melin

Staff Spotlight: Carleen Melin

Carleen

What is your position, and how long have you been working at Make-A-Wish Minnesota?
I started at Make-A-Wish as an intern in the fall of 2010 after graduating from college and have been in the role of Senior Director of Mission Delivery since July 2023.  Before that I was Program Director, Program Manager, Wish Coordinator and Program Assistant. 

What is the most rewarding aspect of working at Make-A-Wish?
Leading the dedicated mission team at Make-A-Wish Minnesota – the team has so much passion for the work we do and the wish kids, families and volunteers we serve.

What is one of your favorite wish experiences?
Some of my favorite wishes I have the privilege to be a part of are wishes to meet the Minnesota Vikings.  The team absolutely loves and are honored to grant wishes and they go out of their way to make each wish experience unique to each wish kid.  We granted 10 wishes with the team this season!

Are there any personal, fun facts you'd like to share?
My husband and I have been to 14 National Parks together and will likely add another 5 to that list this year.  We’ve also visited 51 Minnesota state parks so far.  I also love to read, for the last 5 years I’ve read over 100 books annually.

What advice (if any) would you give to new volunteers?
Patience is truly a virtue in all aspects of the wish journey.  Patience with our wish families who are dealing with so much.  Patience with your staff Wish Coordinator who is juggling so much.  Patience with your wish granting volunteer teammates as we’re all giving our free time.  Patience with wishes moving forward as there are so many factors that go into making it all happen.