Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire

Wishes granted by Make-A-Wish OCIE have been shown to provide physical and emotional benefits to children with critical illnesses. Funding would allow us to fulfill more wishes, which can lead to improved medical outcomes and a positive impact on the overall well-being of these children and their families. A 2022 nationwide Wish Impact Survey of wish alumni, parents and medical providers showed that a large majority of them overwhelmingly agree that the wish experience contributes substantially to physical, mental, and emotional health. The study also revealed some key findings, including:

98% of medical providers said that they have observed that the wish experience helps relieve families from traumatic stress related to their child's critical illness.
95% of parents said they saw their child's emotional well-being improve through the wish experience.
90% of medical advisors said a wish increases a child's compliance with treatment.
87% of wish alumni said their wish gave them strength to fight their critical illness.
92% of wish alumni said the wish experience brought their family closer together.
94% of wish alumni said that their wish made them feel more joyful, confident, and hopeful for the future.

In summary, our program addresses the critical unmet need for emotional and psychological support in children facing severe medical conditions, offering them hope and joy during incredibly challenging times.