1. What ways are you involved as a volunteer?

Wish granter and wish booster

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

After retiring from teaching preschool for 20 years I was looking for a way to still work with kids. My sister, Heidi Stueber, has been a wish granter for several years. She asked if I would be interested in joining Make-A-Wish and help her as a wish granter. This opportunity came at a great time...as we were told that my granddaughter would need heart surgery after birth. I got to see firsthand what some of these wish families go through. My sister has been a huge help working with Make-A-Wish...we make a good team. But I also have a friend, Stacy Lindhart, who is another source to bounce ideas off of.

3. How long have you been volunteering with Make-A-Wish MN?

I have been a wish granter for a little over a year.

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

What I find most rewarding is seeing the amount of joy these kids have and all the hugs they want to share.

5. What advice would you give to new volunteers?

Advice I would have is even though your heart wants to sign up for ALL of these kiddos really look at each child individually and pick ones that really speak to you. Don’t stretch yourself too thin and definitely make use of the toy closet and free things that Make-A-Wish has to use for wish boosts.

6. What story would you share to inspire others to become a volunteer with Make-A-Wish?

I have been a wish booster for several kids, but I had an amazing experience with my pal, Chay. His wish to go to Disney was put on hold due to COVID. Chay had no idea his wish was being granted so his reveal party at Buffalo Wild Wings in Mankato was amazing! It was so fun being part of his journey!