For Dave Upchurch, volunteering with Make-A-Wish Arizona started with a simple willingness to try something new while giving back. What he found instead was something that would stay with him for years. 

“I was probably the least likely person to have volunteered for Make-A-Wish,” Dave said. 

Without children of his own and little experience around serious illness, Dave wasn’t sure what to expect. The idea of working closely with children facing critical health challenges felt unfamiliar, even outside his comfort zone, yet he showed up anyway. 

The conversations, the visits and the time spent getting to know a child and their family over the course of a journey that continued to evolve – that's what stayed with him. 

Since then, Dave has volunteered on dozens of wishes, from discovery conversations to airport send-offs. Each one offers something different, but the impact remains the same. 

Over time, Dave has come to understand that being a volunteer is not about having the perfect response or knowing exactly what to say. It is about being present, listening and showing up consistently. 

“It gives just a really, really great feeling that you’ve been able to do something pretty special,” he said. “To help one child at a time.” 

He is quick to point out that the work is shared. 

“My part is just a small part,” he said. “But all the people here at Make-A-Wish are the ones who make it all happen. We just get to deliver the good news.” 

And still, the experience has left a lasting impact on him. 

“I think I get more out of it, or as much as the wish kids do,” he said. 

What once felt unfamiliar has become a place where he continues to return, not out of obligation, but because of what it gives back. 

“It’s just a fun, fun place to be,” he said.  

For those considering volunteering, Dave keeps his advice simple: