Make-A-Wish OCIE: Transforming Lives through Hope and Generosity

Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire (OCIE) recently hosted its annual Wish Gala, an extravagant event that raised nearly $700,000 to grant wishes for children battling critical illnesses. Held at the stunning Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach on October 18, the gala gathered 250 attendees for an evening filled with emotional stories, spirited auctions, and heartfelt appreciation for the community’s commitment to supporting these children. The event highlights the power of a united community in helping young individuals reclaim joy and hope amidst their health struggles.

A Night of Inspiration and Hope

The evening was masterfully emceed by Glen Walker, a KTLA news anchor, who skillfully guided the audience through a program rich with moments of gratitude and inspiration. Attendees were particularly moved by stories shared by wish kids, including Tristan, who fulfilled his dream to swim with sharks; Alivia, who danced with the BYU Cougarettes; and Sebastian, who had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of meeting his hero, Tom Cruise. These heartfelt narratives underscored the importance of the wishes granted and the significant impact they have on the lives of children and their families.

Honoring Generosity and Community Spirit

Co-chaired by Dolores Salman of Netflix and Dr. George Salman of Kaiser Permanente, the event shined a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of donors, volunteers, and corporate sponsors, who play a pivotal role in making these wishes come to life. This year, the gala honored Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation for their remarkable generosity, which has significantly bolstered the funding for Make-A-Wish OCIE. With a commitment to community investment, Yuhaaviatam’s recent $450,000 grant is set to fulfill almost 80 wishes, showcasing how extensive philanthropic efforts can effect meaningful change.

Bridging the Gap for Local Children

Currently, nearly 400 local children are awaiting their wishes, reflecting the ongoing need for community support. On average, a wish costs about $10,000, and the organization’s ambitious goal is to grant 300 wishes in the current year. With approximately 40 referrals coming in monthly and a statistic indicating that for every wish granted, two more children are on the waiting list, the necessity of fundraising events like the Wish Gala cannot be overstated. Every dollar raised helps shorten this waiting list and brings hope to many families.

Auctions and Special Experiences

The live auction at The Wish Gala was an exciting highlight, featuring exclusive offerings that drew considerable interest from attendees. Notable auction items included a gourmet dinner and overnight stay at Disneyland Park’s 21 Royal, a VIP Chef’s Experience at Ocean 48, and a luxury Lakers Suite at the Crypto.com Arena for an exciting game. Additionally, attendees had the chance to enter a drawing for a stunning 9.38-carat diamond tennis bracelet valued at $25,000, generously donated by Lugano of Newport Beach. Such auctions not only raise significant funds but also create memorable experiences for participants.

Continuing the Mission of Wish Granting

The proceeds from the gala are vital for the ongoing efforts of Make-A-Wish OCIE to grant wishes to children in Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties. With a fundraising goal of $800,000 for this year, the organization relies on the support of the community to continue its mission. For those wishing to contribute, more information can be found by visiting wish.org/ocie or the gala’s dedicated webpage at wishgala.org.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Make-A-Wish OCIE’s annual Wish Gala showcased not only the power of dreams but also the profound impact community support can have on the lives of children facing medical challenges. As stories of hope and resilience are shared and celebrated, it becomes clear that every contribution—be it time, resources, or financial support—plays a crucial role in transforming lives. Join the movement to create joy and strength in the lives of children by supporting Make-A-Wish OCIE and ensuring that the power of a wish continues to transform lives in our community.