Celebrating 40 Years of Life-Changing Wishes

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To commemorate Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area's 40th Birthday, we talked to many of the founding volunteers and staff members who helped shape the organization into what it is today. Watch our legacy video and take a tour from 1984, when our chapter was founded, through the 90s, 00s, 10s, and all the way up to today.

A Message from CEO Betsy Biern

Dear friends,

For the last 40 years, we’ve changed lives together. We've rallied communities, we’ve trained volunteers to give their time and hearts, we’ve asked and welcomed donors to grant wishes, bringing hope and joy to children and families when they need it most. Each wish we’ve granted is a testament to the unwavering power of community and a reminder that no obstacle is too great when we roll up our sleeves and bring every child’s imagination to life.

Since our chapter was founded on January 30, 1984, we’ve granted the wishes of 9,500 children and counting! That's 9,500 unforgettable experiences, cherished memories, and transformative moments for not only our wish kids and their families, but our volunteers, donors, and entire communities throughout our 17-county territory in Northern California. 

As we reflect on 40 years of wishes, we also look towards the future—the wishes waiting to be wished. The road ahead is paved with countless opportunities to reach more children and families across the Greater Bay Area who need the healing power of a wish-come-true.

So, as we celebrate Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area’s 40th birthday, I ask you, how do you want to make a difference? How do you want to give? How do you want to be part of the life-changing power of granting wishes? We need your skills, your time, and your gifts.   

Birthdays are for making wishes. Here is our wish—to grant more wishes, to reach every corner of our territory, to build unbreakable bonds with wish families, and invite and welcome all who want to change lives to be part of the phenomenal power of a wish. Help us reach more wish kids, help us dream bigger, help us continue to be there for our families when they need it most. 

Join us in sparking a lasting joy that brightens our community.  

Warm wishes,
Betsy Biern
CEO, Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area

Celebrate our 40th with us!

Read the stories from our 40 years of wish granting

Be a part of our 40th Birthday campaign

Join as at one of our birthday parties!

Be a part of our 40th Birthday Summer Miles Drive and help wishes take flight!

I wish to meet the stars of Knight Rider

J.D., wish granted in 1984

neuromuscular disorder

J.D. on his wish in 1984

I wish to have a quinceañera

Lupita

16

leukemia

Birthdays are for Making Wishes | 40

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