Volunteer Spotlight: Mark & Kristi S.
How did you two meet?
We met in 1987 via a dating service, I think it was called Friends, it was not done by computer matching but by actual people putting the matches together. We always joke that it cost us each $500 to meet each other. Been together ever since (celebrating 35 years this year 2023).
What made you decide to volunteer with Make-A-Wish?
Our daughter Nicole (Nikki) had a wish in 2004, a Best Buy shopping spree. In early 2007 she was doing well and suggested we volunteer. We did and she and her sister Emile even accompanied us on a few until Nikki passed away later that year. Emile still helps out from time to time.
What roles do you two volunteer in? Are there any you always volunteer together in, or some you do separately?
We have been wish granting together since we started. We also volunteer for events. We enjoy talking to people about Make-A-Wish and sharing what a good thing it is. I (Kristi) did an event as part of the Speaker's Bureau one or two years ago where I spoke at a business for their corporate giving as well. It is a good experience and takes a passion to get corporations to donate.
How do your different strengths complement each other in your volunteer roles?
We both engage the families, but one focuses more on filling out the paperwork (Mark with favorites, Kristi with signatures etc.) so we can make sure to cover everything. Then we check each other’s work.
What is your favorite thing about volunteering together?
We both get the good “high” from volunteering and it's nice to get to share the experience, and be able to talk to one another about the family and to meet new people together. Many times they are having similar experiences to what we had with Nikki, so in turn we always get to share our memories with each other of Nikki. Keeps us grounded as well.
What has been the most rewarding experience of volunteering with Make-A-Wish?
Always the kids and the joy in their faces. We get to bring a time of joy to the kids and their families, for the most part, every time we see them. It is great when they come to the door with a huge smile when we show up.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about volunteering with their partner?
You will be doing a lot of work together so make sure you enjoy each others company (LOL) as well as be clear with each other who will be doing what in the process. If you set a routine with who is responsible for what, the easier and more enjoyable the process will be. Remember why you are volunteering and don’t look at it as something you need to do but something you are doing that will not only be good for the family, but for you as well. We never leave an event without being grateful we did it.