Donation FAQ

Can I donate my airline mileage to the Make-A-Wish Foundation^®?
Yes. Your donation of airline mileage can help us grant thousands of travel wishes. To donate your miles, please click here. (Please note: you will be connected to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America web site where your gift will be designated for Central California based on your zip code).

Can my financial contribution be tax deductible?
Yes. The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central California is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. As such, financial contributions may be deductible for federal income tax purposes. Please consult with your financial advisor to determine the extent of tax deductibility.

How does the Make-A-Wish Foundation spend the money donated to the Foundation?
At this time, approximately 73% of our funds go directly to program services.

What are your sources of funding?
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central California finances its work through individual contributions, corporate donations, foundation grants, special events and community events held on our behalf by area businesses, associations, clubs and schools. The Foundation also relies on in-kind contributions to help defer the cost of wishes. The Foundation does not do telephone or door-to-door solicitation. The Foundation also relies on contributions of products or services to defray the costs of operations.

Have you ever denied a wish due to lack of funding?
NO! Due to the generosity of community members, businesses and charitable foundations, we are able to grant the wishes of all eligible children that are referred to us. Also, in-kind donations of goods and services allow us to make every dollar donated for wish-granting purposes go twice as far.

Can we pay for a particular wish?
Yes, through our Adopt-A-Wish^® program.

How much does an average wish cost?
A wish can be as simple as a birthday party and as elaborate as a trip to Hawaii or Walt Disney World^® Resort. The average cost of a wish for our chapter is approximately $5,000.

How can we help raise money?
There are many ways to help, from school and community programs, to individual and corporate gifts, to sponsoring special events. Call the office for details.

Is there a minimum donation?
There is no minimum donation — a gift of any size will help touch the lives of our wish children and their families, creating precious memories.

What kinds of donations do you accept?
We accept gifts of cash, stock, bonds, mutual funds, annuities, life insurance, real property, in-kind donations of goods and services, vehicle donations, and frequent flier miles. The Foundation accepts donations in accordance with the gift acceptance policies established by the Board of Directors.