What is your position, and how long have you been working at Make-A-Wish Minnesota?
I started in late September 2021 as the Volunteer Services Coordinator. In September 2023 I began transitioning to a Wish Coordinator role. 

What is the most rewarding aspect of working at Make-A-Wish?
As a wish mom, I experienced what it is like to be on the receiving end of a wish and saw firsthand the amazing impact it had on my son and my family. Now, being on the giving side of wishes is incredibly rewarding knowing that another family may experience what mine did.

What is one of your favorite wish experiences?
There hasn’t been one particular favorite wish experience because I think the best part of the wish process is the surprise wish reveals! Watching a wish child’s face go from confused to recognition to realization to pure happiness - Best. Thing. Ever.

Are there any personal, fun facts you'd like to share?
I have two golden retrievers who are both registered therapy dogs and we volunteer with the University of Minnesota’s PAWS (Pet Away Worry and Stress) program once a week.

What advice (if any) would you give to new volunteers?
When my son was sick, some days we were so wrapped up in just getting through the day, that we’d forget to have fun or that it was even okay to have fun. My advice to new volunteers is to be the fun for wish kids and their families. Send a postcard, an email with a funny joke, a small wish boost. It may not seem like much, but it means the world to the wish child and family.