Step-by-Step Wish Process
Many people ask us, "How does a wish happen?"
To find out, follow our step-by-step wish process.
 | A child is referred to us. Referring a child is easy. Visit the Refer A Child section to learn more about the referral process. |
 | We contact the child's health care specialist (doctor, nurse practitioner or physician's assistant) to confirm that the child has a life-threatening medical condition and meets the medical criteria for a wish. The specialist also helps us decide if the child's wish is safe and appropriate for the child's medical condition. |
 | Once we receive a signed medical authorization form from the specialist, a volunteer wish team is assigned. Teams are made up of two or three volunteers who have completed our wish granting training. To learn more about volunteer training, visit Volunteering. |
 | The wish team arranges a visit to the family. The Make-A-Wish Foundation sends the wish team toys, gifts and T-shirts to give to the wish child and his or her family. |
 | During the visit to the family, the wish team's primary responsibility is to help the child identify his or her heartfelt wish. The wish team brings markers, crayons and paper so the child can have fun drawing and visualizing his or her wish. When the possibilities are nearly endless, sometimes kids may have a hard time deciding on the perfect wish, and it may take a couple of visits before the child makes up his or her mind. |
 | Once the wish is determined, the magic begins. Depending on the type of wish, airlines are called, limos are booked, purchases are made and parties are planned. The wish team stays in touch with the family as our staff plans the wish. With the help of donors, local retailers and vendors, the wish team and staff dream up surprises, seek in-kind donations, organize itineraries and set dates. No detail is too small. But for the wish child, the details don't matter. We make sure they see only the magic. |
 | The wish date arrives. It's time for fun, magic and memories. |
Spot Says… Friends and family are our biggest referral source. Do you know a child who might qualify?
Elizabeth, 10, Cook with Emeril
