Where does the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan get its funding?
Funding comes from individual contributions, special events, corporate donations and sponsorships, foundation grants, workplace giving programs and planned gifts.

What is the average value of a wish?
The average value of granting a wish in the Michigan chapter is more than $7,500, with the cash expense averaging around $5,000. This varies, as the wishes themselves vary from a terrier puppy (with all necessary puppy supplies!), to a sight-seeing adventure in Hawaii. Once we know a child's most heartfelt wish, we do our best to make that wish come true.

How are wishes paid for?
Funding for wishes comes from individual contributions, special events, schools, corporate donations and sponsorships, foundation grants, workplace giving programs and planned gifts. Each chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is responsible for raising and managing the funds needed to grant the wishes of children within their area. Wish expenses are fully covered by the Make-A-Wish chapter granting the wish. This will often include travel expenses, lodging, meals, and even spending money. Our objective is to provide the child and family with memories of joy that are not clouded with the worries of expenses.

How much of my contribution benefits the wish kids?
More than 80% of each dollar spent directly supports our wish-granting program. The Foundation strives to be an excellent steward of our donors' dollars, creating efficient and effective practices in our mission to fulfill special wishes to Michigan children.

Does the Make-A-Wish Foundation telemarket?
The Make-A-Wish Foundation does not, under any circumstances, engage telemarketers to raise money, despite sometimes being confused with other organizations that do. In fact, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has a nationwide policy against telephone and door-to-door solicitation. There are a number of other sound-alike organizations - some also with "wish" in their names. The Make-A-Wish Foundation has no affiliation with any other wish-granting organization. If you receive a call from someone asking for a donation, ask the caller to send more information to you.

When fundraising for the Foundation, are there certain companies or groups that should not be approached?
Yes. The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan has developed key relationships with several Michigan companies, groups, and organizations that should only be contacted by a Make-A-Wish staff member. For a listing of these companies, please contact a Make-A-Wish representative at 888.857.9474.

Can my financial contribution be tax deductible?
Yes. The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. As such, financial contributions may be deductible for federal income tax purposes. Please consult with your financial advisor to determine the extent of tax deductibility.
For more information download our most recent Annual Report (PDF).