Wishes Matter - I wish to be famous Gabby, 8 leukemia - Make-A-Wish Colorado
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Wishes Matter
September 1, 2017- August 31, 2018
I wish to
be famous
Gabby, 8
leukemia
STAFF
Joan Mazak
President, Founder & CEO
Marilyn Tillery
Vice President of Operations BOARD OF
Lauren Beede
Director of Community DIRECTIORS
Development
Doug Askam
Patti Forsythe
EKS&H, LLLP
Director of Events &
Dennis Brown
Promotions
Wahlberg, Woodruff, Nimmo &
Jennifer Getsch
Sloan, LLP
Director of Wish Granting
Tomago Collins
Jeff Krebs
Director of Philanthropy
Shawn Bernal
Kroenke Sports & Entertainment
Eric Creed IN THIS
Sr. Systems Analyst
Jennifer Burton
Great Western Operating
Company, LLC ISSUE
Scott Esmond
Accountant Letter From Leadership
Effective, Inc.
Jamie Castle Gabby’s Wish For Fame
Kelly Maloney, M.D.
Wish Coordinator Where Are They Now?
Children’s Hospital Colorado
Michelle Chrusciel Volunteer Spotlights
William Myers
Database Manager Jayke’s Day With Dolphins
Investor & Business Advisor
Donovan Cordova Supporter Spotlights
Scott Reichenberg
Volunteer Manager Anahi’s Quinceañera
The Colorado Group, Inc.
Caitie Couch Making A Direct Impact
Brent Smith
Event Specialist Kids For Wish Kids
Nutrien
Claire Fundingsland Events & Fundraisers
Laura Srsich
Wish Referral & Outreach Wishes By The Numbers
Eide Bailly LLP
Coordinator Thank You!
Beau Stark
Sarah Grosh
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
Kids For Wish Kids® Manager
Constance Talmage
Madison Montgomery
Colorado Lawyers Committee
Wish Coordinator
Cory Tipton
Sarah Murphy
The Tipton Law Firm, PC
Communications Manager
Scott Van Ramshorst
Alis Ochoa Castejon
American Family Communities,
Wish Coordinator
LLC
Teresa Pusztai
Justin Vaughn
Prinicipal Gifts Officer
Lathrop Gage LLP
Linda Turner
Gift-Processing Manager
Stacie Winslow
Auction Coordinator &
Sponsorship Acquisition
Misti Wright
Wish Coordinator
WHY WISHES MATTER Welcome back! If we look a little different, it’s because we’ve gone through a brand refresh. Make-A-Wish has been around for 35 years and it was time for a little facelift. We’ve updated our logo, colors, fonts and some key parts of our brand identity, including our mission statement. Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. This statement perfectly encapsulates what we do as an organization. We need a vast amount of resources to provide each wish experience; the phrase “it takes a village,” applies quite literally to the business of granting wishes. When a wish is created, it’s more than just making a few phone calls or booking flights. We do everything we can to capture a child’s heartfelt wish and make it a reality. A child’s imagination is at the heart of everything we accomplish together. Imagination alone inspires, renews and entertains. When a wish comes true, it creates strength, hope and transformation. Make-A-Wish has the unique ability to transform a child and family’s life during some of their most difficult trials – as a wish creates an opportunity for hope and the ability to experience life beyond illness. In the fight against a critical illness, each wish serves as a catalyst for renewed strength and encouragement for every child and family on their journey. Wishes help kids look past their limitations, families overcome anxiety and entire communities experience joy. Most importantly, wishes can improve a child’s quality of life, giving them a better chance of recovering. Wishes are the driving force behind all we do because, put simply, wishes transform lives. We will continue creating these life-changing wishes together until we have granted the wish of every eligible child. Thank you for your commitment to our mission! Sincerely, Joan Mazak President, Founder & CEO Make-A-Wish Colorado BOARD OF DIRECTORS UPDATE Effective September 1, 2018 the Board Chair will be Doug Askam and the Vice Chair will be Justin Vaughn. We would also like to extend a sincere welcome to the newest members of the Board of Directors! Deron Brown, PCL Construction Enterprises Michael Broker, Trilogy Financial Bob Forbes, Forbes M&A Mike Harrell, NBCUniversal Media, LLC Leaving the Board this year are Scott Van Ramshorst and Tomago Collins after six years of service. Thank you for your time and dedication!
MAKE GABBY
On a snowy night in downtown Denver, groups of teenagers, parents and children huddled outside the Hard
Rock Café holding homemade posters and clutching their phones, waiting for something. For someone.
Excited chatter filled the air: “When is she coming?” “Is that her?” “I can’t wait to meet her!” Suddenly,
between snowflakes, the object of their anticipation appeared: a pink limousine slowly cruising down the
street toward the crowd. Chants filled the air as the limo door flung open: “Gabby!” “Gabby!” “Gabby!” Out
popped an 8-year-old girl dressed in a leather jacket and a cat ear headband.
The famous Gabby had arrived.
Gabby is an energetic, bubbly and confident young girl from Thornton, Colorado. A year and a half ago, she
was diagnosed with leukemia and will continue chemotherapy for another six months. Though her illness has
altered her life, it hasn’t dampened her indomitable spirit or one-of-a-kind fashion sense. “She gets dressed
up for chemo,” her mom explains. That fact sums up Gabby well. No matter the circumstances, she still shines
in her own unique way.
Gabby was referred to Make-A-Wish Colorado to have her one true wish granted. That wish? To be famous.
What did being famous mean to Gabby? She had some ideas. It meant signing autographs, taking pictures
with her fans, walking around with her entourage and having her own bodyguards. Beyond that, fame brought
something to Gabby that cancer had taken away. According to Gabby, being famous gave her and her family a
chance to “focus on the good stuff instead of the scary stuff.”
Gabby’s wish began with the help of Mountain Vista High School students through the Kids For Wish Kids
program that works with local students to raise money on behalf of Make-A-Wish Colorado. The students at
Mountain Vista treated Gabby as a VIP, from interviewing her on the student-run talk show to throwing a
massive dance party in the school gym that kicked off her weekend with a bang.
I wish to be
famous
Gabby, 8
leukemia
FAMOUS Throughout the weekend, Gabby’s star power only grew. The family stayed in the penthouse suite of The Four Seasons – Denver where they enjoyed panoramic views of the city and mountains, as well as room service and a monogrammed robe for Gabby. She rode around town in a pink limo, got a makeover and had a shopping spree with her very own personal shopper! She even hosted a meet-and-greet for her fans at The Hard Rock Café where she signed her headshots and posed for photos with all of her dedicated fans before retiring for the night. Being famous, apparently, is quite exhausting. Gabby’s wish culminated with the biggest idea yet: an “Epic Bash,” hosted in her honor to celebrate her fame with all her family and friends. “Dress to impress,” the invitations read, and those invited heeded Gabby’s instructions. Her guests arrived and enjoyed a specially curated menu of some of Gabby’s favorite foods: chicken fingers and french fries, along with a cotton candy machine and cake. Partygoers smiled in the photo booth and even had a chance to craft some cat ear headbands of their own to look just like Gabby. The party ended with Gabby handing out awards to the best dressed and best dancer at the event, which was another key aspect of fame in her mind. Although her wish experience is over, Gabby’s fame remains. She is known as the unforgettable little girl whose wish captured the imagination of an entire community; the rising star whose infectious giggle played out on major Denver radio stations; whose signature red lips and cat ears appeared on TV interviews with local news outlets; whose charismatic personality shone in front of large crowds; and whose hashtag on social media went viral as people cheered her on from around the world helping to do what they could to #MakeGabbyFamous.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
When Peter was 17 years old, he was diagnosed with cancer and given the opportunity
to have a wish granted by Make-A-Wish Colorado. Upon much thought and reflection,
he decided that his wish was to meet the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope
Benedict XVI. Peter’s wish came true in May 2012 when he flew to Rome with his
family. During his trip, he went to an audience with the Pope in Saint Peter’s Square
and received a personal blessing from the Pope himself. It was an incredible experience
that shaped the course of his life forever.
Now, six years later, Peter is continuing to grow in
his faith and build upon the experience he had on
his wish. Peter entered into the seminary where he is
studying to become a priest in the Catholic church. He is
currently on an assignment in Rome, attending the Pontifical North American
College right next door to Saint Peter’s, where his wish came true so many years
ago! He will be studying in Rome for five years with plans to be ordained a priest
in May 2021, after which he will return to Colorado to serve as a priest in the
Archdiocese of Denver.
Peter’s experience perfectly captures the lasting power of a life-changing wish!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHTS!
Wish granters, office volunteers, airport greeters and more- volunteers help fulfill our mission by providing
over 6,000 hours of service each year! Thank you to all of our incredible volunteers!
Holly is a wife and mother of two children, Marlee and Max. In 2011, Marlee
received a liver transplant in Seattle, WA, after many years of suffering with
a liver disorder. She was granted a wish to Disney World by Make-A-Wish
Holly Burkett
Washington. According to Holly, planning and talking about her wish helped
Marlee through many hard days during a difficult time and had a profound
effect on the entire family. It was this experience that inspired Holly to
volunteer with Make-A-Wish Colorado a little over a year ago.
“I enjoy volunteering because it gives me the opportunity for me to give back
to an organization that got my family through one of the the darkest times in
our lives. I enjoy being a small part of what Make-A-Wish does for thousands
of sick children.”
Kris Hayes
Kris Hayes is an all-around Make-A-Wish enthusiast. She has been volunteering her time for five
years as both a wish granter and office volunteer. Her role as a wish granter has allowed her to
meet many wish kids and be a part of the magic of their wishes, from conducting the initial wish
interview to planning send-off parties and even participating in some local wishes!
As an office volunteer, she helps out the staff in any way she can. Her favorite event to volunteer
at is the holiday Wish Store, which is a unique Make-A-Wish Colorado tradition where wish kids
shop for gifts for their families at a store set up in Children’s Hospital, free of charge.
“Meeting some of the wish kids and seeing their wishes come true is an amazing experience!
I can’t think of a better place to volunteer my time. Great cause, great people and so many
different and fun ways to help!”
JAYKE’S DAY OF DOLPHINS!
I wish to go on a
Disney Cruise Line®
Jayke, 7
disease of the nervous system
Jayke’s wish to go on a Disney Cruise Line was full of adventure, activities and lots of marine life.
Jayke’s voyage began in the cockpit of the plane flying him to Florida. The pilot gave Jayke a tour of the dials and
switches in the front of the plane while Jayke sat in the co-pilot’s seat, taking it all in, in wonder.
After landing in Florida, Jayke and his family boarded the boat that was home for the
week. An itinerary, chocolates and lots of towel origami awaited them in their room
aboard, hinting of the fun that was to come!
The following days were spent in a state of bliss. Jayke ate ice cream at most every
meal, goofed off with his brother, posed with Ana and Olaf from Frozen, and relished
all the theater entertainment the ship had to offer. The whole family was amazed and
delighted by the range of activities and plays every night- they hardly had time to sit
still!
The adventures continued during the excursions outside of the ship. Jayke loved interacting with marine life, from
feeding fish at Castaway Cay to petting porpoises at Atlantis in the Bahamas. The whole family enjoyed splashing
around with dolphins- and judging by the pictures, it looks like the dolphins enjoyed it too!
The rest of the trip was spent soaking up the sunshine and enjoying being together as a family.
“It gave Jayke a great experience to remember,” his mom reminisced happily.
SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT: ROBERT KAHN
Robert Kahn has been a dedicated Make-A-Wish supporter,
donor and volunteer since he helped start the New York
chapter nearly 37 years ago. He also helped at the Chicago
chapter before moving to Colorado and continuing his efforts
with Make-A-Wish Colorado.
Robert loves and supports the mission because Make-A-Wish
gives kids something that no one else can: a wish, which can be
a life-changing experience for that child.
“Doctors give medicine, hospitals provide treatment, parents
offer support, but only Make-A-Wish can grant the child’s
one true wish and make them the center of the universe.”
Robert is an invaluable member of the Make-A-Wish Colorado
community. In addition to monetary donations, he also donates
his time and talents to the Make-A-Wish mission. He attends
internal and external events, greets out-of-town wish families
at the airport and volunteers every chance he has!
Thank you, Robert, for your generosity and dedication to the
Make-A-Wish mission!
CORPORATE INVOLVEMENT SPOTLIGHT
HOSPITALITY
Skyport Hospitality began supporting Make-A-Wish Colorado in 2013 through an annual customer donation
program at their unique mix of restaurants, markets, coffee shops and lounges at Denver International Airport.
Since then, the company has raised over $86,000 to help grant 12 wishes for Colorado kids. This fall, Skyport
Hospitality employees will also engage in our Walk For Wishes® & 5K Run event by volunteering and fundraising
to grant additional wishes. “Skyport Hospitality is incredibly proud of its partnership with Make-A-Wish
Colorado. It feels great to be able to assist in the granting of wishes for so many children. We look forward to
being involved for many more years to come!” shares Samantha Harber, Director of Business Operations. Thank
you, Skyport Hospitality, for your commitment to supporting life-changing wishes!
ANAHI’S QUINCE!
Wishes are life-affirming and life-changing. They radiate joy, replace fear and create hope. For 15-year-old Anahi,
her wish to have a quinceañera gave her the chance to celebrate life and all of the challenges she has overcome
so far with her family and friends by her side.
In Latin American culture, the quinceañera is a special celebration
for girls turning 15 that symbolizes the transition from childhood to
womanhood. There are many traditions involved in a quinceañera.
The dress, the dance, the food, the gifts and more! Anahi wore
a beautifully decorated pink ball gown matched with a tiara and
bouquet of roses. The outfit was enhanced by a special necklace
donated by Henri’s Jeweler’s in Littleton, Colorado.
Anahi’s special day consisted of a ceremony, followed by live music,
dancing and delicious homemade Mexican food. Anahi’s guest list was
comprised of her parents, extended family members, and friends. In
typical quinceañera tradition, there was also a Court of Honor, which
was made up of Anahi’s closest friends: seven damas (girls) and four
chambelanes (boys). It was a beautiful evening of celebrating with
family and friends, many of whom claimed the highlight of the night
was watching Anahi and her father dance together in a beautifully
choreographed waltz.
I wish to have
a quinceañera According to a member of Anahi’s family, “Make-A-Wish not only
Anahi, 15 granted Anahi’s wish, but also helped the family come together as a
cancer
better and stronger unit.”
SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
We would like to extend a big thank you to Charles Schwab
employees for their annual summer fundraising efforts! In
the past four years, Charles Schwab has raised more than
$100,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado! From collecting cash
and online donations to hosting a bake sale and a pie toss,
employees look forward to the summer fundraisers each year.
Thank you for helping us make wishes come true!
Got Miles?
Help wish kids take flight.
Give your air miles now!
Visit colorado.wish.org/miles
MAKING A DIRECT IMPACT
Make-A-Wish Colorado is 100 percent privately funded. The organization does not receive any government funds,
nor is it a United Way charity. Instead, it is generous individuals, families, businesses, service organizations and
foundations who, through their contributions, large and small, make wishes come true for Colorado children with
critical illnesses.
The average cash cost of a wish in Colorado is $7,500. Gifts of any amount are welcomed and every contribution
makes a difference. Donations are accepted online at colorado.wish.org/donate, by mail at 7951 E. Maplewood
Ave, Suite 126, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, and by phone at 303.750.9474. Below are some of the different
ways you can support Make-A-Wish Colorado. For more information on any of these programs, please visit
colorado.wish.org.
Adopt-A-Wish®
The Adopt-A-Wish program provides donors a unique opportunity to make a difference in the
life of a child. Sponsorship of a wish is $7,500.
Monthly Giving
Enrolling in the monthly giving program provides Make-A-Wish Colorado a reliable source
of funding to grant wishes. Donors can benefit from monthly giving as it is an easy and
affordable way for individuals to make their support go further. It also offers the convenience
of automatically deducting a set amount from a checking account or credit card each month.
Matching-Gift Program
Corporate matching gifts are a great way for you to maximize your personal contributions
to Make-A-Wish Colorado and increase the impact of your gift. By taking advantage of a
company’s matching gift benefit, you may be able to double or even triple the amount of your
contribution. Each company has its own guidelines, so please contact your Human Resources
Department for information.
Corporate Sponsorships/Giving
Corporate sponsorships are a great way to partner with one of the most widely known
non-profit organizations in the world. Supporting Make-A-Wish Colorado can be tailored to
the wants and desires of each company. It is a unique opportunity to engage your employees/
customers and rally around an important cause.
Make-A-Wish Colorado also has several special events each year that provide opportunities
for corporate recognition with our supporters. Cause-related marketing campaigns also
provide a great way for corporations to get involved and align themselves with the powerful
Make-A-Wish brand.Wishes in Flight®
Help us make wishes take flight by donating your frequent flyer miles to send a child on a wish
of a lifetime. Please visit colorado.wish.org/miles for more info on how to donate. This is just
one simple way you can help grant a life-changing wish experience.
Wheels for Wishes®
Donate your car, truck, motorcycle, boat or RV and help make a Colorado child’s wish come
true. Wheels for Wishes is an easy way to donate your used vehicle, running or not, and
avoid the hassle of selling it yourself. Simply call 720.907.3825 or 877.431.9474 or visit
wheelsforwishes.org. They will arrange to pick up your vehicle, sell it and provide you with the
necessary tax information.
State Tax Return Donations
Make-A-Wish Colorado is fortunate to be part of Colorado’s “Checkoff Colorado” program, a
program that provides tax payers the opportunity to make a donation to select organizations
on state tax forms. When filing your 2018 taxes, simply select Make-A-Wish Colorado, enter
the amount you want to donate and 100 percent of your contribution will be directed to
Make-A-Wish Colorado.
Workplace Giving
If your company has a workplace giving program, consider making donations through
automatic payroll deductions. A small, regular amount can result in a substantial annual
donation. If Make-A-Wish Colorado is not listed on the workplace giving pledge form, simply
add “Make-A-Wish Colorado” in the donor option section or ask your giving-campaign
coordinator for a write-in agency form. If your company does not have a giving program, ask
that one be started.
LEGACY OF WISHESTM
You can find a meaningful way to give – a path to rekindle hope and create joy for generations to come – as a
member of the Make-A-Wish family. By designating the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Colorado as a beneficiary
of your estate, you can leave a legacy that will benefit children with critical illnesses.
Typical bequest language is:
“I give the sum of $ ________ (or percent of estate) to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Colorado, Inc.,
7951 E. Maplewood Avenue, Suite 126, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, to be used or disposed of as
its Board of Directors deems appropriate in its sole discretion.”
What will your gift mean? It will mean the world to wish kids and their families. By becoming part of the family of
givers known as the Legacy of Wishes Society, you will help change the lives of the children we serve. Thanks to
you, they’ll be able to create memories that celebrate all they’ve overcome – memories that can lift their spirits
during whatever obstacles lie ahead.
We invite you to learn more about how your estate plans can leave a legacy of hope, strength and joy. Please
visit colorado.wish.org/plannedgiving to join the society or for more information about the many planned giving
vehicles available.
Thank you for all you do to share the power of a wish®.Rock Canyon High School
This school year, thousands of students, schools and youth groups across Colorado became wish makers through
the Kids For Wish Kids and Wishmakers On Campus® programs. They learned the importance of teamwork and
community service, and raised funds to help grant wishes for children fighting critical illnesses. These students
had the opportunity to take the lead in brainstorming fundraising ideas, creating action plans and managing
everything from start to finish. Together, they raised over $1 MILLION for Make-A-Wish Colorado! That’s a
reason to celebrate! Please visit colorado.wish.org for a full list of schools and groups that participated.
KIDS FOR WISH KIDS
TOP 10 SCHOOLS
Mountain Vista High School
Chaparral High School
Legend High School
Rock Canyon High School
Fruita Monument High School Air Academy High School
Ponderosa High School
Cherokee Trail High School Chatfield High School Smoky Hill High School
Douglas County High School
Ralston Valley High School
Highlands Ranch High School
Grandview High SchoolWISHMAKERS ON CAMPUS TOP 5 STUDENT GROUPS Chi Omega - University of Denver Chi Omega - University of Colorado Boulder Chi Omega - Colorado State University Froggy Foundation University of Colorado Colorado Springs Greek Life Chi Omega- University of Denver YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL The Youth Leadership Council of Make-A-Wish Colorado had a strong second year! Together, the group of 25 high school students planned and executed the Second Annual Festival of Wishes and raised over $12,500 for Make-A-Wish Colorado. We would like to thank each student for their incredible contribution and dedication to Make-A-Wish and for helping create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. The Youth Leadership Council engages students in the Make-A-Wish mission while also providing participants with educational, networking, philanthropic and leadership opportunities. Applications for the 2019 term will be accepted until October 15, 2018. To learn more or obtain an application, please contact Sarah Grosh at sgrosh@colorado.wish.org
FUNDRAISING & EVENTS
Wish kid Kenna performs with The Fray at Wish Night!
The stars were certainly out at Wish Night 2018! We were thrilled to introduce a new
and exciting affair this year as our signature fundraising event. Wish Night was an
Night
incredible celebration of who our wish kids really are—not patients or children with
a critical illness, but stars in their own right. We wanted our generous donors to get
to know the passions that fuel our wish kids and so the audience was treated to some
serious talent! Wish kid Amber kicked things off the night with a stirring rendition of
Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song”. Wish kid Logan played the keyboard and did a duet with
his sister Lainey, “A Million Dreams” from the movie “The Greatest Showman.” There
wasn’t a dry eye in the house when wish kid Becca performed a moving lyrical dance to The Fray’s “You Found Me” and for
the grand finale, wish kid Kenna was joined on stage by Joe King and Isaac Slade of The Fray to perform their multi-platinum
hit “How To Save A Life.” Attendees were overwhelmed by the energy and dedication that our talented wish kids brought
to their craft—even The Fray’s Isaac Slade said, “Seeing Becca dance to one of my songs with a feeding tube attached was
something that will stay with me forever.” It was a deeply touching and personal experience for all the attendees. Please
consider joining us on February 22, 2019 for another special Wish Night!
Another lap around the track for Wheels & Wishes! This event featured
a car show with over 50 unique cars, ranging from classics to vintage to
muscle and everything in between- there was even a “Back To The Future”
style DeLorean! Wish kids, families and car enthusiasts alike had the chance
to win a ride around the speedway in the cars of their dreams. Ferarri’s, rat
rods, Lamborghini’s, firetrucks, police cruisers, drifters and more took it to the
track in this fast-paced, fun-filled afternoon. Thank you to our event sponsors:
Ferrari of Denver, Antero Automotive & Truck Services, Sil-TerHar Motors,
Mike Broker of Trilogy Financial, Rich and Sue Jones, 92.9 the Bear and our title Wish kid Lily!
sponsor, the Colorado National Speedway!
We put another new event on our calendar this year: the Trailblaze
Challenge! Designed as an endurance event, the Trailblaze Challenge
is a 23.7 mile hike along the Colorado Trail that takes place during one
life-changing day! The inagural hike was held in early August and it was a
tremendous success. Our hikers enjoyed the picturesque Buffalo Creek
mountains while challenging themselves physically and celebrating
raising much needed funds to grant the wishes of children in Colorado with
critical illnesses. These trailblazers raised over $215,000 collectively
through personal donations, peer-to-peer fundraising, special events and
Trailblaze participants on a training hike! corporate sponsorships. It was an amazing day filled with determination,
perseverance, and lots and lots of steps!EVENT HOSTS
We are fortunate to have organizations and individuals in the community who host events and promotions on
our behalf. They range in activities for the whole family, connecting people with similar hobbies, or bringing some
friendly competition, all to grant wishes. Thank you to everyone who has helped us share the power of a wish®.
108 with Cat and Renee Corey Rose Wishes and Heroes Concert Krause Family Skyport Hospitality
12 Bars of Charity Cuba Cuba Level 3 Fitness Sozo, LLC
4 Noses Brewing Company Darth Hair’s Locks of Love Challenge Lokai Speedco Inc.
Affordable American Insurance Dave & Buster’s Longmont Fire Fighters Sport Clips
Alex and Ani, Charity by Design Denver Insurance Collective Experience Love Your Melon Stockers Car Club
Allegretti Dry Dock Brewing Company LOW Country Kitchen Subaru of America
Alta Convenience Stores Enterprise Leasing Lucy Johnson Family Taco John’s
Amanda Merriman Fifth and Hudson Macy’s, Inc. Tattered Cover
America’s Charities Frank’s Ride For Children Maggianos Little Italy The Crazy Merchant
Antero Auto & Truck Services Inc Frontier Mechanical Marquis Spas The Melting Pot
Avis Rent a Car System, LLC Gamers Giving Merrick & Company The Walt Disney Company Foundation
Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza GameStop Monograms Travel Things Remembered, Inc.
BELLCO Credit Union Giving Back Group Movement Climbing + Fitness TIC
Big Thompson Brewery Glacier Homemade Ice Cream & Gelato National College Athletic Association Todd Walker Memorial Fund
BioTRUST Good Sam Nutrien Topgolf
Blue Bunny Greenwood Plaza Party City Transwestern
Bristol Myer-Squibbs Hard Rock Café Denver Patxi’s Pizza Trusted Choice
Brooks Brothers Highline Vision Plumlee Events United Healthcare Insurance Company
Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear Hugs Holiday Rambler RV Club Porsche Club of America Village Arts of Colorado Springs
Foundation Hot Chocolate Run Prolacta VillaSport Athletic Club
California Pizza Kitchen, Inc. Institute of Management Accountants R2-KT Sci-Fi Auction Watertree Health
Charles Schwab InVINtions, A Creative Winery Ride for the Stars Waterworks Car Wash
Chi Omega Chapters Isagenix Rolling Smoke BBQ World Travel Holdings
Chipotle Janet Morande Romero’s K9 Club & Tap House WrestleMania
Claire’s Jeff Colt Rory’s Stupid Cancer Fund Young Professionals Group (YPG)
Colorado Colfax Marathon Relay Jewelers For Children Russell Stover Youth Leadership Council (YLC)
Colorado Gymnastics Institute John Uhles Safelite AutoGlass Zurich American Insurance Company
Colorado Springs Toy and Comic Con KC Butler Sand Creek Lounge
Container Collective YOGA Kendra Scott Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores
Copper Kettle Brewing Company Kolton’s Crew Shutterfly
YPG Kickball
Frank’s Ride For Children
EVENT SPONSORS
Antero Automotive & Truck Services Double Bar 5 Michael and Kimberly Broker Team Select Home Care - Colorado
Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta Eide Bailly LLP N2 Fitness LLC Tek Systems
Ashley and Ed Brown EKS&H LLLP NAMIC The Trade Desk
Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza Eldorado Natural Spring Water Nelnet Foundation The Vaughn Law Offices PLLC
BELLCO Credit Union Ernie Jablonski NorthStar Securities, LLC TRC Marketing, Inc.
Bill and Dana Myers Fastsigns of Midtown Denver Park County Radio Club UCHealth
Blue Bunny HomeSmart Cherry Creek-Div. of PCL Construction Enterprises, Inc. University of Colorado Foundation
Brian and Sarah Grimm HSDEN, LLC PMG Colorado Wahlberg, Woodruff, Nimmo & Sloane,
Children’s Hospital Colorado InVINtions, A Creative Winery Pulte Mortgage LLC LLP
Constance C. Talmage J3K Strategies Security Central Inc. Walgreens
DaVita, Inc. KPMG LLP Security First Insurance
Dennis W. Brown Laura and Burton Esmond Sill-TerHar Motors
Denver Alumnae of Chi Omega Madona Delvino Wine Smithfield Foods
Digicomm International Matt Cullen Sue and Richard Jones
To learn how to host your own fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Colorado or to find out what events are
happening in your area, please contact Patti Forsythe at 303.750.9474 or visit colorado.wish.org.WISHES BY THE NUMBERS
Our Organization
Make-A-Wish Colorado is part of the largest wish-granting organization in the world, with 62 chapters in the
U.S. and its territories and 38 international affiliates serving nearly 50 countries.
The Colorado chapter has granted over 5,200 wishes since its inception in 1983. This past year, 270 wishes
were fulfilled for Colorado children and 35 assisted wishes were granted for children from other Make-A-Wish
chapters that involved a visit to Colorado.
Who We Serve
Make-A-Wish Colorado grants the wishes of every medically eligible child in the state who is referred to us, as
confirmed by their physician. The child must have reached 2½ and be younger than 18 at the time of referral
and must not have received a wish from another wish-granting organization.
The Cost of a Wish
The cost of each wish varies depending on the wish itself, number of family members to be included and the
activities and excursions the child selects. The average cash cost of a Colorado wish is $7,500, with no expense
to the family. Other than the medical condition and age, there are no other qualifications based on sex, race,
religion, socioeconomic status or any other demographic category.
OUR WISHES
Wishes typically fall into I wish to have
these five categories: a treehouse!
Cross, 5
cancer
I wish to go...
Travel throughout the
United States or
78% internationally
I wish to have...
Special gifts like
shopping sprees, room
15% makeovers or a puppy
I wish to meet...
A favorite celebrity,
athlete, musician
6% or band
I wish to be...
A princess, police officer,
firefighter, model or
1% even a superhero
I wish to give...
Toys to cancer patients
or instruments to a highSOURCES OF FUNDING
Make-A-Wish Colorado is 100 percent privately funded and
receives financial support from a number of sources. Contributions
come from individuals, corporations, and private and foundation
grants. Make-A-Wish relies on in-kind contributions as well which
help to lessen the cost of goods and services.
Events
31%
In-kind
29%
Major/
Planned
12%
Corporate
12% ALLOCATION
OF FUNDS
Make-A-Wish Colorado is proud of
the manner in which it manages the
Individuals
generous donations of its supporters. In
9% Fiscal Year 2018, more than 83 percent
of the funds raised by Make-A-Wish
Colorado were used to fulfill the mission.
Grants
4%
Workplace
2% Program Fundraising
10%
Other
1%
83%
Management/
Make-A-Wish Colorado is General
a Charity Navigator 3-star 7%
charity and a GuideStar
Exchange Silver participant.I wish to visit
New York City
Amy, 19 I wish to go to
lymphoma Walt Disney
World® Resorts
Benjamin, 13
brain tumor
I wish to have a
shopping spree
Juan, 18
brain tumor
I wish to go to the Disney I wish to see
Castle with my twin Ru Paul’s
Lily, 7 Drag Race
genetic disorder Lilian, 17
lymphoma
I wish to have
a camper
Ezekiel, 8
nervous system disorder
I wish to go
to London
Daniel, 18
cancer
I wish to meet
an astronaut
Aiden, 7
nervous system disorderI wish to play chess at
the Marshall Chess Club
Griffin, 13
nervous system disorder
I wish to have
a puppy
Jack, 6
leukemia I wish to have
a jungle gym
Oriah, 4
cancer
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!
Marilyn Tillery is retiring after 23 years on staff at Make-A-Wish Colorado.
Her journey with Make-A-Wish began with serving as Secretary on the first
Board of Directors of the Colorado chapter when it was formed in 1983. She
later came on as a staff member in 1995 and has worked here ever since. She
has served as Vice President of Operations and resident mom to all Make-A-
Wish Colorado staff members for the past two decades. In her retirement,
she plans to travel, spend time with her husband, and visit her daughter. We
will miss you, Marilyn! Thank you so much for your service to Make-A-Wish
Colorado!
Teresa Pusztai has worked at Make-A-Wish Colorado for five years and was
responsible for the acquisition of major and planned gift donors as the Director
of Philanthropy and Principal Gifts Officer. Teresa also worked as the Executive
Director of Make-A-Wish San Diego, as well as the Director of Planned Giving
at Make-A-Wish America. She is retiring after 17 years of service to the
organization and plans to enjoy her retirement by spending time quilting, taking
care of her chickens and puppies, and being with her family. Thank you for your
years of dedication to our mission, Teresa! You will be missed!
IN MEMORY OF...
We celebrate the lives of wish kids who are no longer with us and remember their bright spirits. We extend our
heartfelt sympathies to each child’s family and friends. You will always be a part of our Make-A-Wish family.
Derrick B. Lucy J. James S.
Samuel C. Trevor K. Kira S.
Layla D. Cole L. Jessica T.
Christian F. Angel R. Enrique V.
Yaakov G. Taelar R. Leonardo R.NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
DENVER, CO
PERMIT NO. 990
7951 East Maplewood Avenue, Suite 126
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
303.750.9474
colorado.wish.org
OUR MISSION
Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
CHECK WHAT MATTERS!
Participate in Checkoff Colorado this tax season!
This tax season, help fulfill the wishes of kids with critical illnesses by making a contribution to
the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Colorado on your state tax return.
TAX FORMS
S
DEDUCTION I wish to go
on a cruise
Caleb, 5
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