A single wish can create a ripple effect that lasts for years. For Alex Becker, that ripple started long before she became a Make-A-Wish Arizona volunteer. 

Alex first experienced the impact of a wish through her cousin, whose wish to visit the beach gave their family unforgettable moments together. While she didn’t fully understand the power behind that experience when she was younger, the mission stayed with her. 

Years later, when Alex discovered she could become a volunteer and help create those same moments for other families, the answer was simple.

Since becoming a wish granter, Alex has helped grant 16 wishes, serves on the Arizona Wishmakers Council and continues to find ways to share the wish mission with everyone around her — including her family, coworkers and community. 

For Alex, wish granting begins with something simple: listening. 

Each wish kid has their own story, personality and reason behind their wish. Whether it’s learning about a favorite color, a special interest or the little details that make them smile, Alex believes those conversations are what help create a meaningful wish experience. 

“If I can make them feel like the things they shared were heard and valued, that is rewarding to me,” Alex said. “What a small thing I can do — use my ability to listen and make them feel special and loved.” 

The experience showed Alex that the impact of a wish starts long before the wish itself comes true. 

Beyond wish granting, Alex has continued creating opportunities for others to experience the mission. Through the Wishmakers Council and her family company, she helps encourage others to give back — whether through volunteering, fundraising or finding their own way to support wish kids. 

For Alex, once someone experiences the heart behind a wish, they become connected to the mission. 

“If I can get someone to volunteer with Make-A-Wish, even if it’s just for one wish, I’m tapping into their heart,” Alex said. “I feel like you have a lifelong supporter once they see the impact.” 

Through every wish, Alex is reminded that the impact reaches further than one moment or one child. 

“It leaves a footprint well beyond the one individual,” Alex said. 

And while Alex dedicates her time to bringing hope and joy to wish families, she says volunteering has given just as much back to her. 

“You walk away from participating with Make-A-Wish and feel like you’re a better person — your life is more enriched because of what you share,” Alex said. “I truly feel so privileged to volunteer.”