For volunteer and Wish Mom, Charlene, experiencing the power of a wish firsthand was a life-changing experience. At 12-years-old, Charlene's daughter received a wish to have a never-ending book shopping spree from Make-A-Wish Iowa. The experience touched Charlene so much that she knew she wanted to volunteer for the organization one day.

After raising four children, retiring as a CPA, and moving across the country to California, Charlene and her husband rented an Airbnb in Las Vegas to see if the city could be home to their next adventure. The beauty of the desert captivated the couple and they moved to Las Vegas in 2021. As luck would have it, they ended up just down the road from The Wishing Place.

Since officially coming on board as a volunteer, Charlene has assisted with a photoshoot, written numerous wish stories, helped at our Walk For Wishes event, and organized our copy room. She has also been a friendly face greeting our Wish Families and guests at The Wishing Place's reception desk and the pleasant voice callers hear on the phone.

"Seeing the energy in the office as all of the Wish Families came in for the photoshoot was incredible. I can't imagine a better day to start as a volunteer ... it was just really wonderful."

We are looking forward to many more wonderful days to come with you, Charlene! Welcome aboard!

Are you interested in joining Charlene and many other Southern Nevada residents who volunteer for our chapter? Please visit snv.wish.org/volunteer to see the available opportunities!