Jessica Liburdi, a wish alum and wish granter, has been named the new manager of volunteer engagement for Make-A-Wish^® Northeast New York.

Liburdi is the first wish child to be later hired by Make-A-Wish Northeast New York since its formation in 1987, according to chapter records. Her wish came nearly three decades ago.

“As a wish child, volunteer and now staff member, Jessica embodies and embraces Make-A-Wish,” chapter CEO William C. Trigg, III, said. “Not only is she steeped in our culture and mission, but she has the relevant professional experience that will allow her to excel in her new role.”

Liburdi arrives after serving the past three and a half years as care coordinator supervisor at Tri-County Care, where she coordinated a variety of services for adults and children with developmental disabilities. Liburdi, who has other prior experience in the nonprofit world, holds a bachelor’s degree from The College of Saint Rose and a Master of Social Work degree from Boston University.

“The Make-A-Wish mission has always been close to my heart,” Liburdi said. “I look forward to working with our team of dedicated volunteers to help create joy for local wish kids and their families.”

Born with a birth defect that required multiple surgeries, Liburdi’s wish to go Walt Disney World^® Resort nearly 29 years ago still resonates with her as an adult.

“Spending a week with my family, my sister, without medical treatments — and at Disney? I could not imagine,” Liburdi wrote in a story that appeared in the Spring/Summer 2021 issue of the chapter’s magazine, Wishmaker.

“I do not hold many distinct memories of age 6. But that wish will never be forgotten. … It remains one of my limited childhood memories not clouded by the bright lights and harsh sounds of a hospital.”

Liburdi replaces Ray Gawlak, who left for a position outside of Make-A-Wish.