The Brandenburg Family
Fiscal Year 2023 was a record year for wishes. This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our major gift and Constellation Society donors.
The Constellation Society is our most elite group of Make-A-Wish supporters. Prominent and respected leaders in their industries and communities make up this prestigious society. Members recognize their potential to impact local children and families profoundly and are committed to forever changing lives.
The Brandenburg Family, from Northeast Ohio, believes in giving back. Matt & Tram Brandenburg, their daughters Kailee and Tessa, Kim & Jane Brandenburg, Bo Brandenburg & Julie Brandenburg, and their sons, Henry and Oliver, and daughter, Cecilia, have supported wish granting for decades. They prioritize investing in causes and issues close to their hearts through their family-founded manufacturing company, Prince & Izant (recently sold), and family nonprofit, the Brandenburg Foundation. They became Constellation Society members in 2023 with a generous donation of $500,000 from the Brandenburg Foundation. They have also supported our Make-A-Wish Northern Ohio Gala through sponsorship since 2018, helping us raise millions of dollars.
In addition to their financial support, the family donates auction items for events, regularly hosts wish reveals and send-off parties, and volunteers on wishes.
Matt Brandenburg’s why:
“Your first wish as a volunteer is hard to forget in all the best ways. There is an inherent expectation and excitement in being a part of a moment of joy for this child going through it. My wish kid, Julius (who wished for a trip to Hawaii), showed me that what we’re giving is incredibly impactful for the wish families, but what we’re receiving in return – purpose, fulfillment, and perspective – changes both wish kids and wish granters for life. As much as this mission needs financial backing, an endless list of wish kids are waiting for their moment. I encourage everyone to get involved at the volunteer level, specifically as a wish granter, so you too can witness the power of a wish.”
When asked about the impact of a wish and his experience working with wish granters like Matt, Julius said, “Matt is a true hero. Not only did he go above and beyond in making my wish come true, but he has continued to influence my life for the better. To this day, we maintain contact. I was even given an opportunity to work under his wing for a summer."
Thank you to the Brandenburg Family for their continued support and for helping us grant dozens of wishes for local children.
More about the Constellation Society
A gift of $100,000 or more automatically grants membership in the Constellation Society for one year.
As a member, you will be invited to attend private social events and enjoy other benefits throughout the year that are exclusive, engaging, and fun. You can learn more about our organization and engage deeper with opportunities to experience the power of a wish up close. It’s our way of letting you know how much we appreciate your generosity, giving hope to so many children battling critical illnesses.
Thank you to our generous Constellation Society members:
Brenda Frecka (Co-Founder)
Kara Trott (Co-Founder)
The Brandenburg Foundation
Tim Craig
The McClure Family
The James Family Foundation
Dennis Koon
The Okel Family
Kelly Pollard
The Williams Family