Types of Volunteers
Over 1,400 specially trained volunteers generously give their time and energy to Share the Power of a Wish®. Our volunteers become involved in the mission through a variety of capacities.
General Volunteer
General Volunteers are volunteers who lend their time to help with Make-A-Wish events—whether it be a community event at a local school or business, or an internal event such as Wish Ball, general volunteers roll up their sleeves to do a variety of event support that helps raise funds and creates awareness about Make-A-Wish.
Requirements include: a general volunteer application, including a background and reference check and submission of online quiz.
Wish Granting Volunteer
Wish granters work with our wish children to help them determine their most heartfelt wish. Wish granters then work with the staff to help make these wishes come true. Time commitment varies, but is approximately 10 hours per month based on granting three wishes per year. This includes traveling to wish family homes, wish planning and implementation. Wish Granters must have strong communication skills, and be able to respond to wish families and staff within 48 hours.
Requirements include: a general volunteer application, including a background and reference check, submission of online orientation quiz, online Wish Granter Training (2-3 hours) and in-person Wish Granter Training (2 hours).
Speaker’s Bureau Volunteer
Speaker’s Bureau Volunteers are volunteers who are trained to publicly speak on behalf of the Foundation at various events to promote awareness of our mission, raise funds and/or recruit volunteers.
Requirements include: a general volunteer application, including a background and reference check, submission of online quiz, volunteering for at least one event and/or attending a new volunteer orientation session and attend a one hour specialized training and continuing education.
Office Volunteer
Volunteers who assist with day to day office tasks including mailings, data entry, answering phones, etc.
Requirements include: a general volunteer application including a background and reference check, submission of online quiz, volunteering for at least one event and/or attending a new volunteer orientation session, and an interview by supervising staff member.
Meet & Greet Volunteers
Meet & Greet Volunteers assist wish families at the airport by helping the family check-in and answering any last minute questions they may have about their wish!
Requirements include: a general volunteer application, including a background and reference check, submission of online quiz, volunteering for at least one event and/or attending a new volunteer orientation session, and an interview by supervising staff member.
Committee Member Volunteers
The Foundation offers a variety of leadership roles throughout Illinois. Requirements for each committee vary, please contact the Volunteer Manager to discuss criteria and opportunities available and to learn about the application process.
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