1. In what ways are you involved as a volunteer? 

I have volunteered as a wish granter, airport greeter, wish booster and at several fairs. Chaska Art Fair and at the Clues Fiesta Latina in St. Paul. 

2. How did you first find Make-a-Wish?  

I first came across the volunteer opportunities on social media back in 2019. I had just recently lost my husband due to cancer. My life changed completely and I knew I wanted to use my time volunteering somewhere I could make a difference.  I was not ready emotionally to join until this year.

3. How long have you volunteered at Make-A-Wish?

I went through the training for wish granter in December 2023 and signed up for my first wish in January 2024. 

4. What has been the most rewarding experience of volunteering with Make-A-Wish?

The most rewarding experience is just meeting the wish child and their families. Seeing their smiles when we come to visit. It is fun how kids warm up and start engaging with us weather they are verbal or nonverbal. 

5. What advice would you give to new volunteers?

My advice for new volunteers is to be yourself when meeting your wish child and their families. Communicate with your partner and it is okay to just ask the questions that are in our forms but having conversations to get to know the child and family helps tremendously in preparing wish boosts. It makes the whole experience unique towards each child. 

6. What story can you share to inspire others to become a Make-A-Wish Volunteer?

I saw first-hand the impact a wish can bring to someone who is battling with some kind of illness. My husband was diagnosed with cancer. Constant medical appointments and treatments that were necessary to manage his symptoms was exhausting for him and the whole family. When we made the decision to get his dream car, the last few months before his passing, he forgot what he was going through. Seeing his smile and even burst of energy was all worth it.