One Enchanted Evening Makes Wishes Come True
Laughter and tears punctuated an enchanted evening when the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois hosted its 23rd Annual Wish Ball on Saturday, June 26 at the University of Illinois Chicago Forum. The largest annual fundraiser for the local chapter, Wish Ball raised just over $1 million this year.
Organized with the help of a 20-person volunteer committee, the night featured special guest Dana Carvey, who thrilled guests with his quick wit and hilarious songs. Guests were also able to bid on a lunch with Carvey in San Francisco during the live auction; one of several unique packages up for offer. Zoraida Sambolin, morning anchor at NBC5 Chicago, connected with wish children and guests alike as she emceed the evening's activities.
"This occasion is a wonderful way to celebrate the work of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and bring our mission to life for our supporters," said Stephanie Springs, Chief Executive Officer of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois. "It 
a powerful experience for everyone as we not only laughed with Dana Carvey, but were deeply touched by stories from our wish families."
Proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois, helping to grant wishes to Illinois children facing life-threatening medical conditions. This year the Foundation will grant 750 wishes to children in Illinois living with life-threatening medical conditions such as cancer, organ transplants, cystic fibrosis and muscular dystrophy. This event was made possible by generous support from Title Sponsor, GATX Corporation; Platinum Sponsors Macy's, the David and Teryl Schawk Family Foundation and UNUM.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich their lives with hope, strength and joy. With help from nearly 1,500 volunteers, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois has granted more than 9,000 wishes and continues its mission to share the power of a wish® with special children Illinois.
Make-A-Wish does NOT solict donations through telemarketing or door-to-door.
