Volunteer Spotlight: Kay L.

What ways are you involved as a volunteer?
I am a Wish Granter and have been involved with the Duluth Walk for Wishes and other activities in this area, and recently went through training for the Speaker's Bureau.

How did you first find Make-A-Wish?
I saw Make-A-Wish training advertised at my workplace (Essentia Health) and immediately wanted to learn more about this great organization.

How long have you been volunteering with Make-A-Wish Minnesota?
I have been involved with Make-A-Wish for about 12 years.

What has been the most rewarding experience of volunteering with Make-A-Wish?
I love hearing the stories of the impact a wish has made. I also enjoy the ability to be creative with enhancements. It's so much fun!

What advice would you give to new volunteers?
Team up with a different Wish Granter each time, if possible. You learn so much from others' experiences. There are a lot of resources and support from the Make-A-Wish office. And don't think the wish has to be big to be impactful. The most important thing is that it's special for that wish child.

What story would you share to inspire others to become a volunteer with Make-A-Wish?
Being a wish granter allows me to meet amazing families and bring joy during some tough times. One of my early wishes was working with a 16-year-old boy with cancer. Their family had an old Dodge Charger stored in the barn. His wish was to get it painted so he could drive it. I was so happy to see him and his family several years later at the Walk for Wishes, and to learn he was now in college in the automotive program.