Our Chapter

Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada finances endeavors through corporate sponsorships, special events, foundation grants and individual contributions. However, we do not solicit funds by telephone and receive no federal or state funding. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, all contributions are deductible to the extent permitted by law. Our financial statements are audited locally by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP. 

At Make-A-Wish, we take our responsibility for the monies donated to our cause very seriously and are pleased to confirm that according to the fiscal year 2020 audit results, Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada spent 79% of every dollar on wish granting and related program expenses. For full financial details please review our most recent  financial documents. 

• Make-A-Wish Chapter 990 FY20
• MAWCANV Financial Statements 2021.pdf

We are proud to be a BBB  Accredited Charity Seal Holder, having met all 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. 

At Make-A-Wish, we are more than a great place to work — our work is life-changing. We are an inclusive and diverse group of people who, through a mosaic of backgrounds, thought and experiences, are united in purposeful work. We are fueled and guided by our values — values that are represented in the inspired people we work with and the life-changing work we do, every day. 

We are always on the lookout for great talent who share in our passion. If you are interested in a career or internship with Make-A-Wish, check out our current open positions.  

Children from across our chapter who fight critical illness' need our help. Constant visits to the hospital, the feeling of isolation and the fear of the unknown is what many of these children face on a day-to-day basis.

However, the promise of a wish granted and journey these children take from wish discovery to a wish granted changes all of that. Hope, joy and anticipation fill their minds and hearts, often helping them continue or renew their fighting spirit.

Research shows, and physicians agree, wishes can help improve a child's quality of life and produce better health outcomes. Members of the Make-A-Wish Medical Advisory Council share the life-changing impact wishes have — beyond just medicine — on their patients and their families.

Learn about the impact our chapter has had on children in our community by reading our annually updated Impact Report.

Read the 2020 Impact Report by clicking here ->

Humble Beginnings

Make-A-Wish® is the legacy of Chris Greicius, a 7-year-old boy from Phoenix, Arizona. Diagnosed with leukemia, Chris dreamed of being a police officer. His mother, Linda Pauling, knew leukemia would take his life, so she and a small group worked together to see if they could turn Chris’ dream into a reality. 

The events that transpired on April 29 inspired a wish movement, as Chris received a uniform, badge and spent time in a patrol car and even a helicopter! Chris’ infectious smile and want to help people inspired the group of “wish granters” so much that they didn’t want the day to end. 

Four-days later, Chris passed. That summer, Make-A-Wish was born and Chris’ legacy just beginning.  

In spring-1981, the founders granted their first “official” wish, Frank “Bopsy” Salazar, a 7-year-old diagnosed with leukemia, just like Chris. 

His wish was to be a fireman was granted. 

Stories like these inspired the masses and in 1983, Make-A-Wish became incorporated with chapters opening up across the nation, including our chapter founded by local businessman Frank C. Ramos. 

Chapter History

Since 1983, more than 9,000 wishes have been granted to children within our communities thanks to generous donors, community supporters and dedicated volunteers. 

While we follow the policies and guidelines of Make-A-Wish America, we operate as a separate 501(c)(3) organization where all funds raised by our chapter are used to fulfill our mission in the 45 counties we serve. 

We have regional offices in Bakersfield, CA, Fresno, CA and Reno, NV with our headquarters located in Sacramento, CA. However, our headquarters is more than just an office building.  

The Wishing Place

Imagine a special place where children can escape the rigors of treatment, transplants and never-ending tests.  Imagine a place where fear is replaced by hope. Imagine a place where dreams can be discovered and wishes become reality.  Imagine “The Wishing Place.” 

In 2009, The Wishing Place became a reality in Sacramento and is one of only six Wishing Places in the world!!  

The Wishing Place was created especially for wish children. The magic begins the moment a child enters the front door.  A “Galaxy of Stars” shines above with colored stars each commemorating a special wish child.   

The child then proceeds to “The Wishing Room” where writing on the walls, is encouraged!  Once that one true wish has been discovered, a magical key that only appears to a wish child, opens the door to “The Wishing Tower” where the anticipation begins. 

Tours are available! Learn more by contacting us at [email protected] or call 916.437.0206.