Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York announced today that The Wesson Group has awarded $20,000 to fund a medical outreach initiative to help ensure that every child facing critical illnesses is offered the opportunity of a life-changing wish. The sooner a child knows a wish is possible, the sooner hope, strength, and joy become part of their healing journey. 

This grant marks $80,000 in support from The Wesson Group over the past three years, reflecting the company's commitment to families in the communities they serve throughout Vermont and Northeast New York. Through their TWG Cares program, The Wesson Group prioritizes supporting local initiatives that make a meaningful difference, and this investment will impact families across a 20,000-square-mile region. 

"The power of a wish doesn't come from getting something. It comes from being part of something - knowing you aren't alone," said Jamie Hathaway, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York. "The Wesson Group's partnership is helping us reach more families sooner, ensuring hope, strength, and joy become part of their healing journey when they need it most." 

"We believe in supporting initiatives that strengthen our communities," said Scott Lewis, Chief Operating Officer of The Wesson Group. "By supporting Make-A-Wish's outreach efforts across this region, we're helping ensure that local families facing challenging circumstances know that hope and healing are within reach." 

The funding supports newly hired Medical Outreach and Intake Manager Maureen Sharkey, a certified child life specialist with a decade of experience working with families experiencing difficult medical journeys. Sharkey will work directly with the medical community to ensure healthcare providers know how to connect eligible children with Make-A-Wish services. 

Children between ages 2½ and 18 with critical illnesses may be eligible for wishes. Medical professionals, families, and community members can refer a child by visiting wish.org/refer. Research shows that 95% of children gain the strength they need to continue fighting their illness after their wish is granted.