Case Studies

Dave Horner

Event Management Volunteer

My wife and I have been involved with Make-A-Wish since 1989 when we were invited to undertake fundraising for the Charity through our local Motorcycle Club. Now, so many years on, and at the age of 64, we still get a great buzz helping the Charity to share the magic of wishes being granted to some very special children.

Over the years we have been involved in every aspect of the charity, having raised thousands of pounds through countless events which resulted in the granting of many very special and magical wishes.

One of my most vivid memories was while returning a wish family to Manchester Airport for their flight back home, I heard mum saying, "For seven days we were able to forget about illness". This for me really is the magic of Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Riain Vernon

My attraction to the work of Make-A-Wish was the very special nature of its work for some very special children. To ensure the success of every single wish we undertake to build a relationship of trust and friendship with all our wish children and their families. This can prove to be difficult dealing with so many different types of life-threatening illnesses. However, being accepted into the family and then being able to see the outcome when you grant a wish for that child is a priceless moment for any volunteer.

When I started as a volunteer with Make-A-Wish I was primarily involved with the organising of fundraising events. I then started university full time and had to cut my hours at the charity to focus on my studies. However, I continued my support with involvement in various administrative tasks using the internet and email with my regional office which I could undertake from my halls of residence.

I think my most memorable moment was when I helped grant my first ever wish. The self-satisfaction you receive from this is priceless. That particular wish was granted at a fund-raising event, so a lot of time and effort was involved but the smiles from both the child and her family was worth every minute of it.