Volunteer’s Passion for Helping Kids Brings Self-Fulfillment
Over the last 15 years, Eric Hungate has been a compassionate and dedicated supporter of multiple Make-A-Wish chapters, joining the Central & Western North Carolina chapter in 2014. He was initially inspired to become involved with Make-A-Wish when his brother launched a cause-marketing campaign for the organization. After hearing about all of the wishes being granted, he thought it sounded like fun and began the training process to become a volunteer wish granter.
Amazed by the difference he was making in every child's life through Make-A-Wish, Hungate continued his volunteer work each time he moved, from Raleigh to Philadelphia and then to Greensboro where he currently resides - And he did it while diligently increasing his volunteer responsibilities each time.
Hungate says that having children of his own makes his work with Make-A-Wish doubly impactful, as it allows him to empathize with the wish families he serves. "I haven't gone through what they've gone through, but if I can make a small difference in their lives, just to help them get through another day, another treatment, grant their wishes - That's the most important thing to me." It is Hungate's genuine, passionate, and dedicated personality that has touched many lives through his work with Make-A-Wish.
Reflecting on his time as a supporter, Hungate says that his most memorable moment with Make-A-Wish Central & Western North Carolina occurred at the 2018 Kentucky Derby Classic when a child's wish to go to a Ferrari Plant was revealed, much to the family's delight. "To see a child's wish granted in front of all those people ... That's pretty unforgettable."
However, Hungate’s support doesn’t stop at wish granting or attending and participating in events - He is also a dedicated donor. When Make-A-Wish was impacted by COVID-19, Hungate jumped in to lend his support. He shared an incredible 'Message of Hope' video, where he encouraged viewers to donate, and he even issued a donation match to inspire others to sign up for monthly donations.
When asked what Hungate would tell others about Make-A-Wish, Hungate replied that his desire is for everyone to know and support what Make-A-Wish is about. "We don't just take kids on trips; we make a difference.”