FAQS
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Who can receive a wish?
The mission of A Special Wish Foundation is to grant the Special Wish of a child/adolescent, birth through 20 years, who has been diagnosed by a physician as having a life-threatening disorder. The child must be referred to A Special Wish by a parent or legal guardian, treating physician, or healthcare professional.
Does the child's condition need to be considered terminally ill to receive a wish?
A Special Wish Foundation is an organization focusing on hope for a full recovery. A physician only needs to sign a form indicating that the child is diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition to receive a wish.
Will the wish be granted to a child who cannot communicate?
Yes. If a child is unable to communicate due to their condition, we focus on the family, relatives, and non-family members (social workers, teachers, etc.) who work with the family to verify the true wish of the child.
What are the most requested wishes?
Special Wishes can only be limited by the imagination of the wish child. Most special wishes are included in the following categories:
- Receiving A Special Gift:
Laptops, shopping sprees, bedroom makeovers, playground sets, televisions, and even a puppy are some gifts that children have wished for. - Visiting A Special Place:
Trips to Walt Disney World, locations all over the continental U.S., to see the beach for the first time, or see the Super Bowl, a Final Four, or All Star Game are some of the destinations Special Wish children have visited for their wish. - Meeting A Special Hero:
Sports figures, celebrities, movie and television stars, chefs, and political figures have all spent time with our Special Wish children.
When should I apply for a wish?
We strongly encourage a child be referred to A Special Wish to receive a wish soon after their diagnosis if possible to bring excitement and anticipation of having a wish fulfilled. We do not have restrictions as to the state of the child's condition to be scheduled for a wish, only that the child is diagnosed with having a life-threatening condition.
How much does a granting a wish cost?
The average cost to grant a wish is $4,000.00. The cost of a wish varies depending on the type of wish.
Are there any restrictions on a wish?
We are unable to grant wishes such as motorized vehicles, in-ground pools or hot tubs, or international travel due to liability. We also do not grant wishes such as medical equipment, home improvements, or cash.
Who is permitted to go on the special wish?
Every attempt is made to include the wish child's immediate family living in the same house with the child. If the wish child is an only child, they are permitted to have a companion also participate in the wish. We also permit a nurse to attend if the child is in need of professional medical assistance.
With a travel special wish, are there specific dates that the child must travel?
It is the wish child and family's choice as to the dates for a travel wish. Every attempt is made to work with the family's and child's desired schedule.
Does the family have to pay for any part of the wish?
No. All expenses including travel, accommodations, food and spending money are paid by the foundation through donations, fundraising efforts, and in-kind contributions.
Is the family's economic status a factor for their child to be eligible for a special wish?
No. There is absolutely no income qualification requirements that a wish family must meet in order for a child to be eligible for a special wish.
What are A Special Wish Foundation's sources of funding?
A Special Wish Foundation is strictly funded through donations. All of our wishes are granted through the generous support of corporations and individuals who wish to help grant a wish of a local child.
Can my company or family contribute?
Corporations often donate through corporate giving or company foundations. Individuals also give annually or chose to donate to honor a birthday, wedding, anniversary, or in memory of a loved one who has passed away. Corporations, organizations or individuals may also choose to give through sponsoring a special fundraising event.
Are contributions tax deductible?
Yes. A Special Wish Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and all gifts, including monetary and in-kind are fully tax-deductible as allowed by law. Tax receipts in the form of thank yous are provided by the foundation for all donations.
