Make-A-Wish Illinois

05/12/2026

Jackson and his family learned about Make-A-Wish Illinois while he was in high school. Even facing the daily challenges of a respiratory disorder, Jackson didn't let that stop him from spending time being active and golfing, especially with his dad. He knew that he wanted his wish to involve his love of golf and decided that he wanted to golf in paradise. He and his family traveled to Honolulu, on the trip, Jackson spent his days golfing on world class courses, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, and sailing across crystal clear waters. His wish was a celebration of joy, family, and the game that shaped his childhood.

05/09/2026

When Grace was 5 years old, she was navigating the unpredictable physical and mental challenges of a nervous system disorder. During that time, her wish was to meet Rapunzel and touch her magical hair, hoping it might help heal her too. What began as a moment of wonder became something much deeper.

Her wish taught Grace that even when faced with setbacks, she could choose how she responded, with grit, grace, and gratitude. Through every challenge since, she’s carried that lesson with her, often picturing her five‑year‑old self touching Rapunzel’s hair and finding comfort in the belief that everything would be okay.

Now, Grace is about to graduate high school and head off to play college volleyball at Spring Hill College in Alabama. Living in remission, Grace is passionate about giving back, supporting kids facing illness through encouragement and conversation.

05/05/2026

Thank you to our Wish Ball Top Sponsors! 💙 Your generous support helps grant more wishes and create life-changing moments for children facing critical illnesses.

R1 RCM, CDW Corporation, Comer Children's Hospital at the University of Chicago, USG

05/04/2026

Now through May 17th, join Hamra Enterprises in making wishes come true! Buy a star for $1, $5, or more at any of the 35 participating Hamra Panera Bread locations across IL. Your support helps grant wishes and spread joy!

05/03/2026

Thank you to our Wish Ball Presenting Sponsor, GATX 💙 Your generous support helps grant more wishes and create life-changing moments for children facing critical illnesses.

05/02/2026

This May, dining out can help make wishes come true one bite at a time. 💙

Make-A-Wish Illinois is proud to partner with DineAmic Hospitality for a special month‑long campaign supporting Make‑A‑Wish Illinois. When you order a select dish at participating DineAmic locations throughout May, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to help grant life‑changing wishes for local wish kids.

05/01/2026

Heather’s wish didn’t just impact her, it changed the direction of her entire family. After visiting the Florida theme parks to meet a seal and dolphin, she and her sisters were inspired to create magical moments for other people. Her sisters went on to participate in the Disney College Program, met their partners, and started families of their own. Heather and her parents even relocated to Central Florida to be closer to Give Kids the World, where they now volunteer regularly.

"I often think about if I had decided on a different wish or if I was sent to another location to fulfill my wish if my life would have been the same"

Today, Heather continues to pay it forward by supporting organizations like Crops of Luv, helping create scrapbook embellishments for wish kids, and advocating for the power of a wish every chance she gets.

“Make‑A‑Wish helped change the path of my life and led me to where I belong. I never thought my one wish could have made such an impact on my family and has led to so many amazing opportunities"

04/30/2026

To celebrate World Wish Day, wish families hopped aboard the bus to explore iconic Chicago spots, many with a special connection to Make-A-Wish Illinois. Starting at the Make-A-Wish Illinois office, we saw the Willis Tower and our friends at GATX, saw Soldier Field, met Sparkle at the , had lunch at during their World Wish Day Fundraiser, a quick stop at Navy Pier as it prepares for Wish Ball in just a couple of weeks, all while enjouing plenty of Chicago trivia and cheers along the way. Thank you Big Bus Tours for an amazing afternoon!

04/29/2026

The Wish Home drawing has been extended! Get your tickets now.

🚨 BIG NEWS! 🚨

The Wish Home Raffle has been EXTENDED! 🎉

In celebration of World Wish Day, our incredible partners at the Home Builders Remodelers Association are giving you more time to make an impact and possibly change your life. 💙

🏡 One lucky winner will take home the 2026 Wish Home (valued at over $800,000!) OR choose a $300,000 cash prize!

The winner will be drawn LIVE on KTVI Fox 2 St. Louis on June 29, 2026.

Every $100 ticket helps grant life-changing wishes for children right here in our community! ✨

Don’t miss your chance to win BIG while giving back in an even bigger way. 🎟️ Secure your ticket today at https://www.hbrmea.org/wish-home-raffle/

Make-A-Wish Illinois

04/28/2026

04/26/2026

Bubbly and full of love, Avery has always adored turtles. After her nervous system disorder diagnosis, her bright personality dimmed, except when she talked about turtles. That spark inspired her wish: a turtle tour. In Honolulu, her excitement soared. Snorkeling in Hawaii’s clear waters, she spotted a sea turtle, dolphins and even a whale!

“She had always wanted to see a sea turtle," Avery's mom shares. "To be able to do that in Hawaii was something she’ll never forget.”