Billy Corgan
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At the height of their popularity in 1998, Corgan's band The Smashing Pumpkins embarked on a tour that would ultimately raise more than $2 million for charities. As part of that tour, the band had a sold out date in the Chicago area which raised $500,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois. Not only was it the largest single donation the chapter had ever received at that time, publicity around the concert brought the mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation to a whole new generation of Illinois residents. In 1999, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois honored the band for their support with a Fountain of Hope Award at the annual Wish Ball.
The Smashing Pumpkins commitment to philanthropy was picked up by their fan base and in 2001, a group of local musicians came together for a tribute concert at the Metro in Chicago. And, just like the band they admired, proceeds from that tribute concert were donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois, further spreading the mission of Make-A-Wish.
Since then, Corgan has remained supportive of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois, donating personally and staying in touch to offer assistance whenever he could be of service. His longtime support and willingness to help local children with life-threatening medical conditions make him a Leader in Joy.
More than 1,400 volunteers and 41 staff members work to grant the wishes of Illinois children
