Make A Wish Foundation

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Make-A-Wish
FormationApril 29, 1980 (1980-04-29)
Type501(c)(3) non-profit organization
PurposeFulfilling the wishes of children with critical illnesses
HeadquartersPhoenix, Arizona, U.S.
Region served
International
ServicesChildren 2.5-18 years old with serious illnesses
President & CEO
Leslie Motter[1]
Websitewish.org
President Barack Obama with Make-A-Wish recipient Nick Wetzel and his older brother Stephan on December 9, 2016

The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in the United States that helps fulfill the wishes of seriously ill children. The organization is headquartered in Phoenix[2] and operates through its 58 chapters located throughout the United States. Make-A-Wish also operates in about 50 other countries through 40 international affiliates.[3] Professional wrestler John Cena holds the title for the most wishes granted by a single individual, at over 650 wishes.[4][5]

The organization grants wishes to children between 2.5 and 18 years old with a condition that is progressive, degenerative, or malignant and who have not been granted a wish by another, similar, organization.[6]

Hunting and fishing

U.S. Marines involved in the Make-A-Wish activities for children

Make-A-Wish stopped granting wishes involving hunting-related activities or weapons in 1996 due to concerns over child safety and criticism from animal rights groups.[7] In response, three organizations to arrange hunting trips for terminally ill children were formed: Hunt of a Lifetime, Catch-a-Dream, and Life Hunts.[8][9]

References