Wish Greeter

Our Mission

Make-A-Wish's mission is to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illness. Our chapter directly serves the children and families residing in San Diego and Imperial counties. Each year, we grant approximately 200 wishes for children experiencing critical illnesses in our community. We also welcome 200+ wish families to San Diego for their wish experience.

Role Overview

Every year, about 200 wish families to come San Diego for their wish to go to the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, or to meet the Padres. Wish Greeters meet and welcome wish families at the airport, at their hotel lobby, or even over the phone as they arrive in San Diego! The goal is to provide a memorable experience by getting the child excited for their time in San Diego -- we encourage you to bring a sign with the child's name on it and some balloons to add to the fun! When greeting families at the airport, Wish Greeters often assist arriving wish families with baggage and locate their rental car. This volunteer will help to ease any concerns the wish family has about navigating the airport and airline travel. The ultimate goal is to ensure the wish family is warmly welcomed, comfortable, and stress-free as they begin their wish experience.

Join the Volunteer Team

Volunteers must be a minimum of 18 years of age and willing to complete a background check. Volunteers must complete a role-specific training on Thursday, November 20th in order to become a Wish Greeter (in-person and virtual sessions will be offered).

If you have passion for helping children and a drive to give back to the community, this would be a great volunteer opportunity for you!

Check out our 5,00th wish video: Eric's Wish Day Video - 5,000th Wish