Make-A-Wish Illinois announces Conor O’Brien of Chicago as the recipient of the 2021 Volunteer Fundraiser Award for the Associate Board for unique contributions brought to a fundraising campaign.

Though he’s been a member of the Associate Board for just over two years, Conor has been connected to Make-A-Wish for much longer. In 1994 while he was being treated for leukemia, Conor’s wish to visit his favorite characters at the theme parks in Florida was granted. 

“I’ve been given a second chance with this life,” Conor said. “Make-A-Wish was the first thing that popped into my mind when I knew I wanted to give back.”

He began with a payroll deduction donation at his first real job, then went on to become a wish granting volunteer where he could really dig in an impact the lives of children like him.

“When I had my wish granted it gave me some of my first memories,” Conor said. “I’ve learned how amazing it makes me feel to be able to give kids an great experience like I had as a kid.”

As 2020 unfolded, it became clear that fundraising events would not be able to go on as planned for the Associate Board. Conor and some of his fellow committee members decided to try hosting their own fundraisers. Conor reached out to family and friends and ended up raising more than $10,000 on his own that, when combined with a double matching gift from his company, resulted in a $30,000 donation to Make-A-Wish Illinois.

“Volunteering helps keep me optimistic,” Conor added. “To see all my peers pushing through and find ways to creatively fundraise and see how creative everyone was getting in continuing to grant wishes through it all gives me hope and optimism.”

“Conor is someone that is well respected and trusted by the whole Associate Board,” said Kara Pietrowski, signature event specialist and staff liaison to the Associate Board. “He is always willing to help and step in when needed.”