When Gina Cordes reached out to her friend about a connection with their local police department, a simple phone call turned into so much more. Gina was hoping to arrange a special lunch treat for a wish child who wanted to be a police officer through her friend Lisa’s husband, a law enforcement professional.

“It spoke right to my heart,” said Lisa, and that was what motivated her to get involved as a volunteer herself.

Granting wishes across Kankakee county, Lisa and Gina have worked on an incredible 38 wishes together since 2016, including at least five over the last year working within the constraints of the pandemic. They create unique and meaningful experiences for each child. 

Their success in part comes from their understanding of how impactful the journey from discovery to actual wish and beyond can be. 

“We want them to see their experience with an optimistic lens,” Lisa said. “We really want to bring them optimism and hope.”

Gina recalled inviting one of their wish children to a princess character brunch a few years ago to help her get excited for her upcoming wish to visit Florida theme parks.

“She got a little overwhelmed by all the people and activity, so we moved her to a quieter corner and the princesses all came over to see her individually. I was so touched by everyone’s willingness to come together for our wish child that morning.”

In addition to creating life-changing wishes, Gina and Lisa realized the community collaboration they have found through their volunteer work to be very gratifying.

“I learned that together we can make great connections for our wish kids, Lisa shared. “We’re lucky to have supportive family and friends and a supportive community. They are the reason we able to do what we do.”

As Make-A-Wish Illinois’ 2020 Volunteers of the Year, Lisa and Gina always ensure that the essence of the child's wish is the guiding principle. They have seen time and time again how wishes provide hope and empowerment their wish children.

A pandemic has not slowed the team down. With ten wishes in various stages of planning, including some travel-related wishes on hold, they are busier than ever staying connected to each family. While visits may be virtual, they are no less heartfelt. The situation has even opened up new avenues of collaboration with fellow volunteers where the pair eagerly engage in the exchange of creative ideas for wishes that can be granted now, safe wish reveals and ideas on how to keep kids spirits up by letting them know their Make-A-Wish family cares. 

“These kids inspire me with their strength and tenacity,” Lisa shared.

“We love them and their families,” Gina wholeheartedly agreed.