FY23 Annual Report

I wish to have acting lessons Jayden, 10 blood disorder

SEPTEMBER 2022 - AUGUST 2023

A Message from Scott Rosenzweig

Welcome to our Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada annual report for fiscal year 2023. Our fiscal year runs from September 1 to August 31 each year. We tirelessly strive to be the prescription for hope for wish kids and their families facing the unimaginable. Unfortunately, though we eagerly await the day when children no longer suffer from life-threatening illnesses, that day has yet to come.

This fiscal year, thanks to the incredible support of our community, we’ve surpassed all previous records set for Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada. With a budget initially set for granting 130 wishes and an adjusted goal of 150 wishes, our dedicated team went above and beyond by granting an astonishing 174 wishes! This marks the highest number of wishes granted in a single year since the inception of our chapter, and it appears we’re on track for another recordbreaking year in 2024!

In addition to the financial successes detailed in this report, you’ll also discover the faces of some of the kids behind these numbers – a crucial aspect of our mission. Without the courage of these families in allowing us to create these life-changing experiences for kids with life-threatening illnesses, your support wouldn’t be as vital. Thank you.

Kids like Jayden (front cover), who wished for acting lessons, experienced an even more incredible journey with the support of our community partners. He not only received his lessons but also enjoyed a tour of The Smith Center, including acting lessons from one of the lead actors from Tina! The Musical, along with a host of other enriching experiences. The joy on his face as he stood on The Smith Center stage continues to inspire.

Destiny, aspiring to be a recording artist, not only recorded her original songs at a professional studio in Los Angeles but also had the opportunity to perform at The Pearl, a premier concert location in Las Vegas, thanks to our partners at the Palms Resort and Casino.

One particularly transformative wish was Jason’s desire for a UFC experience. As a heart transplant recipient with a donor who was a Mixed Martial Arts fighter, Jayson truly embodies the heart of a fighter. Stepping into the octagon, his mother remarked that it felt like his donor was back in the octagon once more, all thanks to Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada and UFC.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll never stop saying it: we can make these wishes come true because of you. I am deeply grateful for the various ways this community supports our wish kids. To our donors, volunteers, staff, and medical referral partners – a heartfelt thank you. Your collaboration in finding innovative and engaging ways to support our wish kids and families is truly appreciated.

Wishfully yours,

Scott Rosenzweig President & CEO

Special Recognition to our Board of Directors

Heather Harris, Chair

Keith Hansen, Vice Chair

Rich Justiana, Treasurer

Jodie Sacco, Secretary

Tom Burns, Past Chair

Melissa Akkaway

Dr. Waseem Alhushki

Jacob Bundick

Kristine Creel

Tom Evans

Phil Fortino

Assistant Sheriff, Sasha Larkin

Dr. Anita Pomerantz

Travis Scribner

Dan Smithman

Lorraine Marshall

David Navarro

Jeanette Schneider

Steve Schauer

Contact Details

Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada

9950 Covington Cross Drive

Las Vegas, NV 89144

Phone: 702-212-9474 wish.org/snv

Follow Us › @makeawishsnv

Gratitude and Appreciation:

Honoring Heather Harris’s Legacy at Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada

As Heather transitioned out of her role as our esteemed Board Chair in 2023, we want to express our deepest gratitude for her incredible service and unwavering dedication to Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada. Her tenure as Board Chair from 2021 to 2023 has left an indelible mark on our organization, shaping our mission, and guiding us toward greater heights.

Dear Heather,

Your journey with Make-A-Wish has been truly extraordinary. It began in 2014 when you experienced our chapter through your son Tommy’s eyes as a wish mom. Years later, in 2017, you joined the Board, bringing with you a profound understanding of the impact of our mission. Then, in 2020—a year that tested our chapter and the world—you stepped into the role of Board Chair. Throughout it all, your dedication to making wishes come true has shone brightly, touching the lives of countless children and families with hope, joy, and cherished memories during their most challenging times.

Beyond your professional achievements, your personal story as Tommy’s mother further exemplifies your dedication to our cause. Tommy’s journey, filled with his love for big trucks, trains, and his favorite restaurant, Red Robin, captured our hearts. Your role as a wish mom to Tommy connected you deeply with our mission, embodying the spirit of compassion and selflessness that defines Make-A-Wish. Tommy’s wish to visit Walt Disney World, supported and nurtured by you, brought immeasurable joy to all who had the privilege of witnessing his magical journey.

Your professional achievements and legal expertise have been invaluable to our organization. As a Partner at Harris & Harris Lawyers, your dedication to advocating for injured victims mirrors the spirit of compassion and empathy that drives Make-A-Wish. Your exemplary leadership, both within the legal community and on our Board, has inspired us all to strive for excellence and to never waver in our pursuit of granting life-changing wishes.

Moreover, your tireless efforts in leading “Team Tommy” to support our Walk for Wishes have been truly inspiring. Over three years, Team Tommy has raised over $75,000, a testament to your dedication to rallying support and raising funds for our cause. Your guidance and commitment to making a difference have brought our community closer together, united in our shared mission of bringing hope and joy to children battling critical illnesses.

Heather, your impact on Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada will endure for years to come. Your influence, generosity, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on our organization, and for that, we are profoundly grateful. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and look forward to continuing our partnership in making wishes come true.

With stars in our eyes and gratitude in our hearts,

The Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada Team

Watch Tommy’s Mother’s Day message to his mom!

The Year at Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada

FASHION LUNCHEON

The 21st annual Fashion Luncheon made its highly anticipated return to its former venue of 17 years, Spago, inside its new location inside of Bellagio. The event took place in late November and once again hosted over 180 community members in attendance. Together, attendees raised more than $1 million in a single afternoon to support the Make-A-Wish mission to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Looks from this year’s featured designer, elysewalker™, were modeled at a fashion show and wish kid, Kaci, shared the story of how getting her wish granted provided her with the hope she needed to move through an otherwise very dark time in her life.

Trailblaze Challenge$130K+Feb (FY2023)2023

WALK FOR WISHES

Fashion Luncheon$1M+Nov 2022(FY2023)

TRAILBLAZE CHALLENGE

In its second year, the Trailblaze Challenge raised over $130K to grant the wishes of critically ill children in Southern Nevada. Presented by Findlay Subaru of Las Vegas and hosted by the City of Mesquite in the Valley of Fire, the Trailblaze Challenge is a 25-mile hike that participants conquer in one day. Tested physically and philanthropically, participants’ hike training efforts coincide with raising much-needed funds to grant wishes.

As Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada’s largest in-person fundraising effort, we were thrilled to bring Walk for Wishes, presented by Allegiant, back to Town Square Las Vegas. This year’s event took place on World Wish Day, April 29, 2023. The event attracted community members and sponsors from across the valley who wanted to support the more than 2,500 life-changing wishes already granted in Southern Nevada while raising over $500K to grant future wishes. The event emcees, News 3’s Kim & Dana Wagner and Mix 94.1’s JC & Mercedes, along with the Star Wars Cosplayers granted a wish in front of over 1,500 community supporters. It was a beautiful, sunny day and a wonderful event.

JON WOLFE WISH WALL

Jon Wolfe’s decades-long commitment to Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada has been a driving force behind our mission. Starting as a volunteer in the early 1990s, Jon rose through the ranks to become the chair of the Board of Directors, bringing vision and a remarkable ability to achieve goals.

Under Jon’s leadership, Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada thrived, reaching new heights in wish fulfillment and community engagement. One of his notable achievements was securing The Wishing Place on the Allegiant Campus, providing a dedicated space for wish families to experience wonder and feel at home.

Beyond his boardroom duties, Jon is a beloved wish granter, creating unforgettable moments for children. Whether it’s a joyous ride down the Las Vegas Strip in one of his collector cars or meticulous attention to detail in fulfilling technology wishes, Jon’s dedication knows no bounds.

Jon truly embodies the Make-A-Wish mission statement: “Together, we grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.” His impact is profound, ensuring no child’s heartfelt wish goes unfulfilled. Furthering his contributions, Jon’s major gift this year earned him Jon’s Wish Wall - a visual tribute to the lives touched and dreams realized through his unwavering support

WINE. WALK. WISH.

On April 1st, Lake Las Vegas transformed into a haven for philanthropy and fine wine during the Wine Walk Wish event. Enthusiastic participants strolled along the picturesque lake, savoring exquisite wines while contributing to a greater cause. The event, a fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada, successfully raised an impressive $30,000, bringing joy and hope to children facing critical illnesses. Cheers to the community’s generosity and the memorable moments created for a wonderful cause!

Watch the event’s highlights

RECORD BREAKING

174 Wishes Granted Class of 2023

Watch Jayden’s Wish

MEET JAYDEN

I wish to have acting lessons

Jayden, 10 blood disorder

Jayden’s journey began just 10 days after birth with a rare blood disorder diagnosis. Over eight years, he faced multiple medical challenges, enduring six blood transfusions. Despite the hardships, Jayden’s charming personality caught his mother Bianca’s attention. To distract him from health issues, she enrolled him in modeling classes, uncertain if it would pique his interest.

Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada collaborated with Jayden for his wish: acting lessons. His natural talent reached partners, leading to an extraordinary experience. On wish reveal day, Jayden arrived at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts in a limo with his family. A private master class from Roderick Lawrence, who portrayed Ike Turner in “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical,” awaited him. Acting lessons from Hollywood Access, a professional headshot package from Jerry Metellus, BEST Agency representation, and an invite to Broadway In the Hood’s summer session followed. A VIP backstage tour and the opportunity to do the 30-minute show call for the Tina cast added to the magical day.

Jayden’s talent impressed the production team, making a lasting impression. During rehearsal, he playfully interacted on stage and even strummed the lead guitarist’s guitar. Jayden’s mom Bianca shared the emotional journey of Jayden’s battle with sickle cell disease. By the evening’s end, the entire production knew Jayden’s name. After four hours of VIP treatment, he made the 30-minute show call, expressing joy in playing the guitar and stage-fighting Roderick.

Though the end of an incredible day, it is not the end of Jayden’s promising acting career. Despite his fight against sickle cell, Jayden’s future in the spotlight looks very bright.

MEET DIXIE

Meet Dixie, an 11-year-old with an infectious smile and a heart full of humor. Outdoor adventures were her joy, from riding horses to camping and hiking. However, her carefree days came to a halt when she was diagnosed with lymphoma. Hospital visits and chemotherapy replaced her vibrant days.

Surrounded by her animal-loving family, Dixie found solace in their herd of seven horses. Despite their age, Dixie’s fiery spirit prompted her family to fulfill her dream of riding on her own. The dream of competing outdoors became her beacon of hope.

Mikey, through Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada, became Dixie’s partner in crime. Riding through the wind, they formed an unbreakable bond. The saddle symbolized triumph, and the wind echoed resilience. Dixie’s wish wasn’t just a dream fulfillment; it was a testament to her strength.

Dixie and Mikey embarked on countless adventures, competing in the great outdoors, supported by her family. The saddle became a throne, and the wind their anthem—a melody of triumph, hope, and the enduring spirit of a girl who refused to let illness define her.

The rally call works, our little army shows up, it’s been like that since the beginning of Dixie’s health battle.

— Aimee Hales, Wish Mom

We granted a record-breaking 174 wishes this year!

Fiscal Year 2023 Results

Fiscal Year 2023 saw us break records for wishes granted, referrals received, and revenue raised! Families, staff, and donors were In It to Wish It, despite increased costs associated with both travel and non-travel/local wishes. Wishes granted AND wish cash cost averages increased by 32% year-over-year – but our in-kind (donated) goods and services increased an incredible 63% over 2022, meaning we made our cash dollars stretch further due to donor generosity. Our in-kind revenue total, however, is down to FY22 due to $840,000 received in FY22 towards our 5-year-lease with Allegiant Airlines for office space (accounting rules require we record the revenue in only the year of the lease renewal, so the immediate year after always looks down in comparison). Mirroring overall market performance, our investment account also underperformed for the year, with $619,616 in unrealized losses – but we did not have to sell any stock to make wishes happen, so those losses are only on paper.

**Wish Assists are wish children from other Make-A-Wish chapters around the world whose wishes occur in Las Vegas. We help with local reservations and wish planning.

Funding sources FY23* Direct

*Pre-audit

**Denotes year impacted by COVID-19 restrictions

Thank you to our Cash Donors

Wish Icon ($500,000+)

Johnny Crisstopher

Children’s Charitable Foundation (Criss Angel)

Wish Founder ($200,000+)

Linda & Bill Richardson

Anonymous

Wish Visionary ($100,000+)

Jon Wolfe

Charlotte Brouillard Estate

Wish Innovator ($50,000+)

Robert Bigelow

Findlay Subaru of Las Vegas

Car Donation Foundation

Dan & Josh Smithman

RIG – RENTS

Anonymous

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Allegiant

Wish Leader ($25,000+)

Michelle Patel

Caesars Foundation

Roberto’s Taco Shop

Vanessa & David Moore

Greenberg Traurig, LLP

Iris Audio

NAIOP

Kirk Pierce & Renee Ngo

Vegas Golden Knights Foundation

Binion Family Foundation

Lynne Ruffin-Smith Charitable Foundation

Victoria Otter

GeoComply

Centennial Toyota

Billy Ching

Wish Champion ($15,000+)

OptumHealth

Silver Bow Ventures, LLC

Raymond Group

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Yvette & Ellis Landau

Wynn Foundation

Sherrie Hale Raising Cane’s Judith Keltner

Y Design Build, LLC

Dimopoulos Law Firm

Kamran Amirí

Wish Hero ($10,000+)

Shelley & Thomas Burns

Elysewalker

Bombard Electric

HEB, LP

Michelle Epstein

Angela & Larry Chiu

Kristine & Allan Creel

Dean & Patricia Lawrence

Marcia & George Chami

Donna Isaacs

Dana Weisner

Robyn & Brad Englert

The WFG Foundation

Shan & Jacob Bundick

Jacqueline & Cary Katz

William Balelo

Melissa & Edward Akkaway

Chet J Cox

Annemarie Jones

Helene & Ken Walker

Brian Chilton

Jodie Wells

Kristen & Ron Winchell

Paula Fouce

Karma and Luck

Jacqueline Roberts

Jennifer & Marc Falcone

Tracy Eglet

Cell Phone Repair

Cindy & Albert Aizenstat

Vanessa Bretling

Patricia Arvielo

Layne & Ted Hase

Brianne Steck

Bank of America Charitable

Roshie Raissi

Barbara Tapp

Cheryl Garber

Corinna Hughes

Mandy & Keith Hansen

Pat & David Revzin

World Pizza Champions

Nicole Folino

Natalie White

Cabo Wabo Cantina

World Financial Group

Colliers International

Eglet Adams

Las Vegas Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities

The Howe Foundation

Stacy Falcone

Estate of James Petzing

Gina & Richard Schonfeld

Natalie Hale

Bombard Mechanical Performance Contracting, Inc

Gregory Roberts

L & D Technologies, LLC

T. Nickolas Co

Everything’s Possible Foundation, Inc

Kiewit Power Constructures Co

Desert Springs Hospital Auxiliary, Inc

Dana & Kevin Debiparshad

Desert Legacy Capital

Debbie Creel

Jean McCusker

Nikki Bostrom

Renee & Michael Yackira

Lovee & Robert Arum

Kelley Nemiro

Joseph Murphy

Patricia & Dr. Ralph Niertzeba

Sands Cares

Tiger Communications

Chapman Las Vegas

Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

Resorts World

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

Geri Rumbolz

Monica Janda

Andrew Jenkin

Dr. Waseem Alhushki

Boyd Gaming Corporation

Nicole Becker

Northwest Career and Technical Academy

LOC #548

Sand Dollar Lounge

Patt Dillon

Palm Mortuary, Inc

M. J. Dean Construction

Rite Hite Foundation

Amazon UFC

TNT Pawn Shop

Interior Fashions, LLC

Howard & Howard Attorneys

Bobby Wheat

Lerner and Rowe Gives Back

Chicago Title of Nevada

Henderson Silver Knights Foundation

Huntington & Ellis

Robert Thompson

The Look Med Spa

Stacy Deizotto

Taylor Borsari

Sharon Jenkins

Amy Hooks

Jeanette Scheneider

Susan Mollenkopf

David Colvin

Angel McNeal

Jodie Sacco

Robert Musgrove

Anne & Mark Wayman

Douglas Roberts

Donald Meyering

Steelhead Productions Desert Kids Dental

Martin – Harris Construction

Phil Fortino

Ovation Development

Julie & Steve Schauer

Lea Colburn Kebok

Answerman Tax Service

Desert Parkway Behavioral Health

The Learning Experience

Thank you to

Our In-kind Donors

WISH ICON ($500,000+)

Give Kids The World

WISH VISIONARY

$100,000+

Sheraton Waikiki

WISH LEADER

$25,000+

Regis Galerie

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel

Disneyland Resort

WISH CHAMPION

$15,000+

Resorts World Las Vegas

Avis – Cedant Car Rental Group

Universal Studios Hollywood

WISH HERO

$10,000+

Encore Productions

Rosalind J Design & Décor

Twin Fin Hotel

Authentic Public Relations

Southwest Airlines

Anonymous Household

WISH CAPTAIN

$7500+

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

Hyatt Regency Waikiki

Sea Life Park

Total Show Technology

Cashman Photo Enterprises

Enterprise Holdings

WISH STAR

$5,000+

Rising Star Sports Ranch

Conquer Paralysis Now

Reagan Outdoor Advertising sayAplus

Clique Hospitality

Spago Las Vegas

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

Jerry Metellus Photography

Anglo International Group Maceoo

PCW Custom Cabinetry and Design

Thank you to

Our Legacy Donors

WISH FRIEND

$2,500+

Legoland Park

Palms Casino Resort

Rayo Cole Music

Corazon Communications, Inc.

AKDC Graphic Design

Juan Muniz

Red Rock Casino Resort And Spa

Bell Transportation

Knott’s Berry Farm

Heartfelt Productions

Dee Berkley Jewelry

Jetset & Travel

Pike’s Waterfront Lodge

Sundance Banks

Aqua Creek Products

Latin Chamber Of Commerce

Las Vegas

Bellagio Hotel & Casino

Card My Yard

Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits

By including the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada in their estate plans, these donors will provide the resources necessary to grant inspiring wishes for children now and in the future. Ensure your legacy lives on through wishes with a legacy gift by naming Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada in your will. Visit plannedgiving.wish.org for more information.

Anonymous

Barbara F. Tapp

Biel Family Trust

BND Management Trust

Cherie Tonkin

Cheryl Hartfield

Dorothy Lois Breese Irrevocable Trust

Under Will

Edwartoski Living Trust

Estate of Lorraine S. Berry

Frances Pearl Rotisky Estate

Hortense G. Koller Living Trust

John Braschi

Kay Doolittle Trust

Laura Jane Noble

Lois Miller

Mary Ann Baigier

Michael Ashley

Richard J. Simms

The Cathy McCarthy Living Trust

The Laura and Peter Weidenfeld Trust

The Lionel Trust

The Murren Family Trust

Todd R. Morse

Tom Wolf

Wilmington Trust Company

Wishfully Ever After

One of the biggest misconceptions about Make-A-Wish is that it is a last wish. For so many of our wish kids, this is not the case. Many credit their wish experience as a turning point in their medical treatment, giving them the strength needed to fight their critical illness. Here at Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada, we celebrate our wish alumni – young and old – whose wishes filled them with hope and joy to not just feel better, but sometimes to get better. Here are a few of their stories:

I wish to go to Disneyland®

Abbi wish granted, 2018 leukemia

Countless young girls seek inspiration from Disney princesses, and nine-year-old wish kid Abigail was no exception. Battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Abigail’s wish was to visit Disneyland with her family and meet her favorite princess, Rapunzel. Admiring Rapunzel’s determination to pursue dreams, Abigail faced her own challenges with unwavering resolve and creativity.

The Disneyland trip became a magical escape for Abigail and her family, offering a temporary respite from the trials of her illness. From riding attractions to visiting the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and watching the enchanting fireworks show, each moment brought smiles to Abigail’s face. The experience allowed the family to recharge, facing the future with renewed strength, turning Abigail’s wish into a beacon of hope during their journey.

Reflecting on her journey, Abigail shares, “My wish granted by Make-A-Wish was a ray of light during

my darkest times. It taught me to always dream big and believe that anything is possible, no matter the challenges we face.” Now 14 and starting high school with a passion for performing and creating art, Abigail cherishes the memories of her wish, grateful for the inspiration that continues to shape her teenage years.

Wishfully Ever After

I wish to go to Walt Disney World Resort®

Thaddeus wish granted, 2015 leukemia

Thaddeus Thatcher faced a challenging battle with T-cell leukemia since October 22, 2014, disrupting his active childhood filled with football, gymnastics, wrestling, and basketball. A year of rigorous treatments led to a memorable Make-A-Wish reveal—Thaddeus wished to go to Disney World. The magical trip marked the beginning of his maintenance phase, offering respite for the entire family at Give Kids the World.

Throughout the next 2.5 years of daily home chemotherapy and clinic visits, Thaddeus defied expectations, achieving sports goals such as winning a National wrestling championship while actively in treatment. Supported by his siblings and friends, he reclaimed his place on the football field, earning the NYS Comeback Player of the Year award and later the 14u Player of the Year award.

Thaddeus’ remarkable journey continued with an honorary scholarship to UNLV football during his cancer battle, evolving into a full scholarship after attending the UNLV football camp. Now the starting QB for Arbor View High School, he’s set to shine in the challenging 5A division, breaking records as the first freshman to earn this position at AVHS. Thaddeus remains grateful for the unwavering support that

helped him overcome cancer’s obstacles, and he looks forward to a bright future in football, aiming to continue the journey alongside his brother in college. Thaddeus reflects, “Perseverance, faith, and the support of loved ones propelled me forward. Every award earned is a testament to the power of hard work and determination.”

Volunteers: The Heart of Our Organization

162 1,000 35

Active Volunteers Volunteer Hours Served in FY23

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DINNER

Volunteers help make the cogs of the wish process run, and we simply couldn’t grant wishes without them. In 2023, to honor our most dedicated volunteers, we hosted the Star Volunteer Dinner. The night was complete with food provided by local partners, Roberto’s Taco Shop and dessert by Nothing Bundt Cakes. The night culminated with an awards ceremony, honoring the top three volunteers of 2023 –Gwen Jacobson, John Braschi, and Jason Strauss.

Volunteers with 3+ Years of Service to MAWSN

I just love that this organization brings so many people together to rally around a child. The fact that I get to play a part in showing a child that they are not only loved by their immediate support system, but also by the whole community, is an honor. It brings hope to the child in a greater capacity.

— Gwen Jacobson, volunteer

SANTA PARADE

In Fall 2022, Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada volunteers wore their best blue gear and showed their spirit at the Town Square Santa Parade. Walking alongside a truck decked out in stars and lights, our volunteers spread the mission of hope, strength and joy to the Vegas community!

It stands out to me that during the parade, we had many families who stood up and said they were a wish family or have been touched by Make-A-Wish in some way.

— Jason Strauss, volunteer

Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada has participated in the Cristo Rey St. Viator Corporate Work Study program since its inception in 2019. Now, four years later, the program is still going strong! A total of 10 students have worked in our office throughout the past 4 years, assisting with wish reveals, wish stories, events and general office administration. In 2023, we welcomed 4 new students and celebrated our first graduating senior worker, Valeria.

CRISTO REY ST. VIATOR CORPORATE WORK STUDY: 4 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!

Magic Meets Medicine: A Referral Ignites the Spark of a Wish Come True

Every wish experience begins with a referral. We rely on the expertise of the pediatricians and pediatric specialists who are part of our National Medical Advisory Council along with our Southern Nevada Medical Advisory Committee members to guide us through this critical first step of the wish process. In FY23, our referral sources came through for the kids of Southern Nevada in a big way, garnering 193 eligible referrals, a chapter record.

Dr. Waseem Alhushki

Dr. Waseem Alhushki of Cure 4 the Kids Foundation is a beloved pediatric oncologist, Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada Board member, and Medical Advisory Committee Member. Seeing the hurdles wish kids and their families face first-hand, Dr. Waseem believes a wish is a necessary part of a child’s medical journey and is a true prescription for hope. He lives by the phrase, “be kind, because everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”

Dr. Waseem has a special place in our hearts for the way he treated our son Kai. Beyond his knowledge, professionalism and expertise - he was able to connect with Kai at his teenage level providing inspiration, hope and friendship. There are no words to thank him enough for all he has done. We will be forever grateful for the love he gives his patients.

MEDICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Chair – Dr. Anita Pomerantz

Medical Director, Thomas Dermatology

Dr. Waseem Alhushki

Diretor of Oncology, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

Dr. Beata Kwiatowska

Medical Director, CSL Plasma and Fresenius Kidney Care

Dr. Beth Creel, PhD

Certified Grief Recovery Specialist & Director of Behavioral Health Department, Children’s Heart Center Nevada

Claudia Clendenin

Licensed Social Worker, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

Dr. Brandi Landis

Associate ER Director & Physician, Spring Valley Hospital

Dr. Jenifer Powers

Pediatric Orthopedist, Crovetti Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Dr. Susun Michaels

Dermatologist, Las Vegas Skin & Cancer Clinic

Dr. Cherubin Sumaway

Medical Director, Anthem Medical Group

— Kara Larsen, wish mom

193

Eligible Referrals in FY23

TOP REFERRAL SOURCE CLINICS

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

Children’s Lung Specialist & Cystic Fibrosis Center of Nevada

Children’s Heart Center Nevada

Primary Children’s Hospital*

Renown Children’s Hospital*

*These

Criss Angel

In the magical realm of generosity, Criss Angel has made a lot of wishes come true for the kids at Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada. Through the enchanting support of his Johnny Crisstopher Charitable Foundation, Criss has turned wishes into reality, leaving a trail of joy and wonder.

In this year’s Annual Report, we extend our deepest gratitude to Criss Angel for his extraordinary contribution. His foundation, named in honor of his beloved son Johnny Crisstopher, has been a beacon of hope for 59 courageous wish recipients in FY2023. Among the magical moments crafted by Criss’s benevolence is Donovan’s first tattoo—a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and the unforgettable magic of a granted wish.

Criss Angel’s commitment to making dreams come true is not just an act; it’s a heartfelt testament to the power of compassion and kindness. Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada is honored to be touched by his magic, bringing smiles and cherished memories to the brave children we serve.

In the spirit of gratitude and endless possibilities, we express our sincere thanks to Criss Angel and the Johnny Crisstopher Charitable Foundation for being the architects of enchantment in the lives of those who need it most. Together, we continue to create a world where every child’s wish is a reality.

There are few experiences more powerful than making a wish come true.

I wish to go to Walt Disney World Resort®

Camila, 6 cancer

When Camila finally got her wish come true she was very happy, on those days she couldn’t stop smiling and saying how much she loved Disney World. It was refreshing to the whole family to be out of the routine, to forget we are dealing with childhood cancer.

— wish parent to Camila

This wish gave Nadia the opportunity to receive an amazing experience that if it weren’t for Make-A-Wish she would have never experienced it. She got the opportunity to feel included and participate in typical peer activities. She loved going on rides and the staff went above and beyond to make her feel safe and included.

— wish parent to Nadia

I wish to go to Walt Disney World Resort®

Nadia, 10 nervous system disorder

I have never seen her so happy! She felt special and celebrated! We created priceless memories together that could have only been accomplished with Make-A-Wish.

— wish parent to Addysen

I wish to go on a beach vacation

Addysen, 8 nervous system disorder

I wish to go to Alaska

Mikel, 17 lymphoma

[It is] extremely humbling to know this organization is for real and loving and caring. Truly made us feel special in the midst of our journey of fighting cancer.

— wish parent to Mikel