Volunteer FAQs

Frequently-Asked Questions about Volunteering

Q. What are the benefits of volunteering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation^®?
A. Whatever volunteer position you assume at the Make-A-Wish Foundation, you will know that your work helps to bring hope, strength and joy to a child at a very difficult time in his or her life. You will meet and work with our dedicated staff and volunteers in a supportive and challenging atmosphere.

Q. What roles do volunteers fill and how is placement determined?
A. Our wish-granting volunteers work directly with children and families to grant wishes. Wish Assist Volunteers greet and assist out-of-town families whose child’s wish brings them to the Washington, DC area. Other areas in which volunteers help with our mission include: Community Outreach, Interpreters, Wish Story Writing, Special Events and other fundraising coordination, and administrative assistance to our office staff. For a complete list of volunteer roles please view the Volunteer section.

Q. What is the time commitment expected of volunteers?
A. Volunteer commitments vary, depending on the volunteer role you decide to pursue. We make every effort to match your availability and level of commitment with the needs of your volunteer assignment. As a Make-A-Wish^® Volunteer, you are given the important task of making a child’s wish come true. It is important work; and we expect a high level of commitment and professionalism from all our volunteers. In return, the Make-A-Wish Foundation makes a commitment to you: We promise to provide quality training and the support and resources needed to do the work entrusted to you.

Q. Are volunteers directly involved with the children and families?
A. Wish-granting volunteers have the highest level of involvement with children and their families. They make the initial contact with the family, interview the family to determine the child’s most heartfelt wish, provide wish enhancements and deliver the wish.  As a new volunteer, you will receive training and be mentored by an experienced volunteer to ensure that you are knowledgeable and comfortable in meeting and talking with the children and their families.

Q. Are there volunteer positions that would not be so emotionally demanding?
A. There are many volunteer opportunities that do not involve direct contact with our wish kids and their families.  Our volunteers are involved in special events, outreach efforts, and helping out in the office. If you have a special skill or talent you would like to offer, please contact us to see how you can become involved.

Q. Where can I get more information about volunteering?
A. Contact the Make-A-Wish office in your area to find out more.

Q. How do I apply?
A. We’re so glad you asked! Click here to begin the process of becoming a Make-A-Wish Volunteer.