Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada volunteer, Gwen Jacobson fondly recalls a childhood spent sketching houses in her backyard and imagining herself as an architect. Drawn to subjects considered unconventional for girls growing up in the 70s, Gwen favored courses such as woodworking, shop class, and mechanical design.

Perhaps it’s no surprise that when furniture needed to be assembled at The Wishing Place, it was Gwen who was operating the screwdriver.

“I just love to help,” Gwen admitted, flashing a humble smile. “Wherever the volunteer team needs me, I’ll be there. It just takes a phone call.”

That mindset has allowed Gwen to touch many components of the Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada ecosystem. She has done everything from designing wish posters and organizing supplies to delivering flowers to a mother mourning the loss of her son.

“I am pretty in tune to people’s emotions, and I’m not afraid of them,” Gwen said. “Many of my friends come to me for comfort, and I embrace that role.”

Gwen’s calm, caring temperament and curious nature have allowed her to embrace a variety of roles throughout her career, from the ten years she spent as a special education paraprofessional to working as a loan officer. Her love of service sprouted from her experience working at a children’s hospital in Minnesota.

Gwen smiles as she recalls a wish reveal that she was a part of last summer. “It was a shopping spree for a little girl who was battling a respiratory disorder,” she recalled. “We wrapped all her gifts and set them up at the end of her driveway. When she came out of the house, she was so surprised I thought that she was going to fall over with gratitude and joy. I literally felt the wish bringing her hope.  

“That’s the cool thing about kids; they are eternally hopeful. Even in the face of tragedy and suffering, they have a little spark waiting to come out. These wishes ignite that spark, and when you have a chance to witness it … it’s just pure joy.”

One year and nine months into her volunteer journey with Make-A-Wish, Gwen’s joy shows no signs of fading. She encourages others who are interested in volunteering to be open to the variety of opportunities available.

“I just love that this organization brings so many people together to rally around a child,” Gwen said with a smile. “The fact that I get to play a part in showing a child that they are not only loved by their immediate support system, but also by the whole community, is an honor. It brings hope to the child in a greater capacity.”

She straightened her glasses and took a second to collect her thoughts.

“I get choked up thinking about it. We all want to be famous for a day, to feel special. Seeing how many people come together to make one kid feel special, it’s just inspiring.”

If you are interested in joining Gwen as a volunteer with Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada, please sign-up for an upcoming volunteer orientation or view our current opportunities here.