About Us
Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® has given hope, strength and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions. From our humble beginnings with one boy’s wish to be a police officer, we’ve evolved into an organization that grants a child’s wish in the United States and its territories every 40 minutes.
Our Chapter
The Central California Chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation was founded in 1986. Since that time, the Chapter has granted more than 1,150 wishes. While the Foundation follows the policies and guidelines of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America, it operates as a separate 501(c)(3) organization. All funds raised by the Foundation are used to fulfill our mission in the eight counties we serve.
The First Wish
The Make-A-Wish Foundation traces its beginning to one boy’s wish. In 1980, 7-year-old Christopher James Greicius was being treated for leukemia. Every day, he dreamed of becoming a police officer.
Thanks to the generosity of some caring individuals, Chris was sworn in as the first honorary DPS patrolman in state history. Thus, the Chris Greicius Make-A-Wish® Memorial – which later became known as the Make-A-Wish Foundation – was born.
Fast Facts
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central California was founded in 1986.
In our chapter, we currently have approximately 100 volunteers and gladly welcome other interested individuals.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central California has granted more than 1,200 wishes. Nationally, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted nearly 165,000 wishes since 1980.
Wish referrals are coming in faster than the funds needed to support them.
S.H.A.R.E.S. Card. Here's one of the easiest ways you can support our chapter and help grant wishes - just by doing your grocery shopping! This card is part of a new partnership and the best part of this promotion is that you don’t have to do a thing, but show the card when you shop at Savemart Supermarkets or FoodMaxx.
