Rising Stars is an exciting, high-impact initiative that empowers local students to make a true difference in their communities. This scholarship program focuses on developing future leaders by inviting high school students to enhance their communication, marketing and project management skills through an eight-week fundraising competition.

From January 25 through March 18, student leaders from regional schools will challenge themselves and their community to raise funds for Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware & Susquehanna Valley. Through creative events and fundraising, these students will run their own campaign and rally around a local wish kid! At the end of the challenge, all teams are invited to our Rising Stars Celebration where special scholarships will be awarded, including a $7,500 Rising Stars Scholarship and a $2,500 Community Champion Scholarship. These and other awards will be given to the top student leaders in the Rising Stars 2027 program.

1. School agrees to participate and identifies a student leader within the grades 11^th-12^th to lead the team.
2. Student leader rallies classmates to form a team
3. During the eight weeks, teams will work to raise money towards a minimum fundraising goal of $1,000
4. At the end of the eight weeks, all the student leaders will gather together for a celebration where the top Rising Stars will be announced
5. The team leader that raises the most funds will receive a college scholarship of $7,500. Additionally, the team members from the top three fundraising teams will all receive a letter of recommendation from Jennifer Davis, CEO, in recognition of their volunteer and fundraising efforts.

Rising Stars is a unique opportunity for businesses to achieve dual impact: empowering local students while supporting the life-changing work of Make-A-Wish. This event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a movement aimed at shaping the next generation of changemakers.

As a sponsor, you will support a mission of hope and align your brand with purpose-driven students and school communities across the region. Our sponsors receive marketing benefits and are invited to a celebration on March 18th, where they can enjoy dinner and mingle with students, their families, teachers, wish families, and like-minded supporters.