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 doctor to confirm that the child has a life-threatening medical condition and meets the medical criteria for a wish. The doctor 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 doctor, 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. Sometimes they use markers, crayons and paper to help the child draw their wish. Sometimes it takes a couple of visits before the child picks a wish. When the possibilities are nearly endless, sometimes kids have trouble making up their minds. |
 | 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 they plan the wish. With the help of donors, local retailers and vendors, the wish team dreams up surprises, seeks in-kind donations, organizes itineraries and sets 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… Last year, we granted 324 wishes to Disney World or Disney cruises, delivered 26 computers and installed 20 swimming pools.
John, 16, Pro Bowl Trip
