_{The Prince & Izant Northeast Ohio Hope is Essential Virtual Gala brought to you by Dworken & Bernstein will be streamed on Friday, July 10}

(Northeast Ohio) June 18th, 2020 – To protect the health of wish kids, their families and our generous supporters during these uncertain times, Make-A-Wish® Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana has transitioned our upcoming Northeast Ohio BIG Wish® Gala to a virtual event. The Prince & Izant Northeast Ohio Hope is Essential Virtual Gala brought to you by Dworken & Bernstein is going virtual on Friday, July 10th,from 7:15 p.m.-8:15 p.m.

“We’re disappointed we won’t get to see our guests in person this year, but are looking forward to welcoming wish kids, their families, supporters, donors, and sponsors from the comfort of their homes for what is sure to be an inspiring night,” said Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana President & CEO Stephanie McCormick. “Right now, we’re reimagining the way we grant wishes, and we’re still busy making wishes come true that deliver hope to children in northeast Ohio communities. Children with critical illnesses need the hope and joy that wishes bring. Now more than ever, that Hope is Essential!”

The Hope is Essential Virtual Gala will be emceed by Cleveland Cavaliers in-arena host Ahmaad Crump and feature inspirational wish stories from local wish kids. Make-A-Wish co-founder Linda Pauling will share a message of hope, and viewers will have the opportunity to grant wishes right now for kids who are waiting. The event also features exciting auction packages including an exclusive Browns Game Day Experience!

WHAT: The Prince & Izant Northeast Ohio Hope is Essential Virtual Gala brought to you by Dworken & Bernstein

WHEN: Friday, July 10th 

• Virtual Cocktail Hour 7:15-7:30 p.m.
• Program 7:30-8:15 p.m.

HOW TO WATCH: Visit: okiwish.me/NEOHopeGala to learn more and register for the free event. Auction bidding opens on Wednesday, July 1st.

About Make-A-Wish® Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana Make-A-Wish® OKI creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Founded in 1983, we have granted more than 17,500 wishes, and in fiscal year 2019, granted the largest number of wishes in the country. Make-A-Wish is more than wish granting, it’s a global movement of transforming lives through hope, and wishes need YOU! Nearly 300 children in northeast Ohio are waiting right now. To learn more about how you can donate, volunteer and share our mission, visit: oki.wish.org and follow us on social media @makeawishohkyin