It all began on a Sunday afternoon in 2013, by the harbor, when 10 women gathered with a simple yet powerful idea: to bring their friends together and raise enough money to grant a child’s wish. That day, 98 women came together, and by the end of the event, they had raised $12,000, enough to grant two life-changing wishes. From that beautiful beginning, the Women’s Circle of Wishes was born, and their signature annual fundraiser, It’s In The Bag, was launched.

What started as a small group of compassionate women quickly blossomed into a vibrant and impactful collective. Today, the Women’s Circle is made up of dynamic leaders from across the community, women who are visionaries, dreamers, and doers, whether in the workplace or on the playground. United by a shared passion for making a difference, they bring kindness, creativity, and leadership to everything they do.

Their mission is clear: to support Make-A-Wish® Orange County and the Inland Empire by raising awareness and critical funds to grant wishes for local children battling critical illnesses. And their impact has been nothing short of extraordinary, over $2.3 million raised and countless wishes granted.

The Women’s Circle of Wishes is more than just a support group, it's a movement of purpose-driven women transforming lives, one wish at a time.

In addition to granting wishes, members can meet and network with like-minded women with a passion for philanthropy and desire to create true impact in Orange County and the Inland Empire.

• Invitation to the following social events:
  •  Fall and Spring Socials
  • Holiday Dinner
  • It’s In The Bag Preview Party
• Opportunity to experience the joy of a wish, as they arise
• A welcome stewardship gift

• Be an active contributor to planning discussions and meetings for the following:
  • It’s In The Bag
  • Membership meetings
  • Social Gatherings
  • Sip and Shop Fundraisers
• Support It’s In The Bag in at least one of the following:
  • Donating a handbag
  • Contributing to the auction
  • Participating as a sponsor and/or solicitations for sponsorships

Click Here to download and complete your Membership Form

Women's Circle of Wishes Contact

Alexa Medrano
Development manager
Email: amedrano@ocie.wish.org
Phone: (714)-573-9474 ext. 216

Already a member?

Pay your membership dues today!

Lifetime Members

• Carie Jernquist-Ferry
• Cornelia Haag-Molkenteller
• Elisa Tarkeshian
• Harriet Lehman
• Karla Kjellin-Elder
• Shari Simmons

It's In The Bag

Enjoy a fabulous luncheon with your girlfriends, silent and live auctions with beautiful designer handbags! Proceeds from this event help grant wishes to children battling critical illnesses. 

May 2026 - Date to be announced!
11:30AM - 2:30PM

The Waterfront Beach Resort