Have you ever imagined having your wildest dreams come true? What if I told you that there are organizations out there dedicated to making dreams a reality, not just for children, but for adults, veterans, and seniors too? While Make-a-Wish is well-known for granting wishes to terminally ill children, today, we’ll introduce you to a dozen other wish-granting organizations that can turn dreams into reality of Charities for low-income families and individuals. Some of these organizations don’t require any illness or diagnosis, so keep reading; this information could be life-changing for you or someone you know.
1. Twilight Wish – Making Dreams Shine for Seniors
Twilight Wish is the first organization we’d like to highlight. They specialize in fulfilling the dreams of low-income seniors aged 65 and older who have contributed to their communities in various ways, including military service or volunteering. Twilight Wish offers three types of wishes:
- Simple Needs Wishes: Fulfilling basic yet crucial needs.
- Celebrating Life Wishes: Reconnecting with cherished memories.
- Living Life to the Fullest Wishes: Fulfilling bucket list adventures.
- including “saving money tricks for seniors,” which can provide valuable financial support.
If you or a senior you know could benefit from Twilight Wish, you can find the application on their website. including saving money tricks for seniors which can provide valuable financial support.
2. Do It For The Love – The Power of Music
Do It For The Love is an organization that focuses on bringing the joy of live music to people of all ages who are facing life-threatening medical conditions, veterans with PTSD, and children dealing with severe challenges. They offer up to four tickets to a live music event of your choice, although some events may have limitations.
Eligibility is generous, and they prioritize experiences close to home with up to $250 in travel expenses covered. If applications are closed, sign up for their email newsletter to stay informed.
3. Dream Factory – Fulfilling Dreams for Children
Dream Factory is dedicated to fulfilling dreams for children battling critical or chronic illnesses. Unlike some wish-granting organizations, Dream Factory embraces children with chronic illnesses. Wishes can range from trips to Disney World to unique experiences like a personalized kid cave shed.
To be eligible, your child must be between 3 and 18 years old, have a physician-confirmed chronic or critical illness, and live in a state with a Dream Factory chapter. With 15 participating states, there’s a good chance they can help make your child’s dream come true.
4. AARP’s Wish of a Lifetime – Seniors Living Their Dreams
AARP’s Wish of a Lifetime is tailored exclusively for seniors aged 65 and older in the United States. They focus on granting life-affirming experiences, not material possessions. Whether it’s a veteran revisiting Pearl Harbor or a hockey fan attending their first game, these experiences make lifelong aspirations a reality. The key is having a compelling story, like Victor, a World War II veteran who reunited with his beloved Roberta, separated by over a thousand miles, thanks to Wish of a Lifetime. To be eligible, you must be over 65, live in the United States, and have a compelling story.
5. Wish Upon a Wedding – Love and Hope
Wish Upon a Wedding is a wish-granting organization that focuses on providing weddings for couples when one partner has been diagnosed with a terminal or life-altering medical condition. It’s about reclaiming hope in the face of adversity. They provide everything for a picture-perfect wedding, from planning to attire and more. If you or someone you know is eligible for this heartwarming experience, you can apply on the Wish Upon a Wedding website.
6. One Day to Remember – Brightening Lives Amidst Cancer
One Day to Remember steps in to help families when at least one parent is fighting cancer. They plan memorable adventures within two hours of your home, or if you’re not feeling well, they can arrange for activities at home. They document the day with professional photography, creating keepsake photo books and journals for each child. To apply for your family, visit the One Day to Remember website. These small but meaningful adventures can bring joy amidst difficult times.
7. Cameron Simers Foundation for Hope – Changing Lives for Young Adults
The Cameron Simers Foundation for Hope offers life grants of up to $5,000 to young adults aged 18 to 30 diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses. These grants are designed to fulfill dreams that not only impact the recipient but also their community. Whether it’s starting a business, embarking on a goodwill mission, or accessing free health services and care, this foundation empowers young adults to make a difference. Jill and Emily are two inspiring individuals who turned their challenges into opportunities thanks to this foundation. Jill staged a play that inspired many, while Emily used her grant to help women in Tanzania.
If you’re eligible and ready to make a difference, visit the Cameron Simers Foundation for Hope website to apply.
8. Warrior’s Wish – Honoring Injured Post-9/11 Veterans
Warrior’s Wish is dedicated to severely injured post-9/11 veterans. They provide adaptive equipment and once-in-a-lifetime adventures for eligible veterans and their families. To be eligible, you must be a post-9/11 military veteran with a disability rated at 70 or higher. Stories like Sherry’s, who received a utility terrain vehicle, or Ronnie, who made lasting memories at Disneyland, highlight the impact of Warrior’s Wish. For more information, visit their website.
9. Forever Young Veterans – Fulfilling Dreams for Senior Veterans
Forever Young Veterans focuses on providing once-in-a-lifetime dreams for honorably discharged veterans over the age of 65. They’ve helped veterans reconnect with old friends, attend baseball games, and even revisit former battlegrounds. If you or a senior veteran you know is eligible, visit their website for more information.
10. Marty Lyons Foundation – Wishes for Children
The Marty Lyons Foundation grants wishes for children between the ages of 3 and 17 facing terminal or life-threatening illnesses. Their diverse range of wishes includes meeting celebrities, embarking on fishing trips, or even attending concerts. The memories created are truly priceless. To see if you’re eligible or to apply, visit the Marty Lyons Foundation website.
Conclusion
The world is full of remarkable wish-granting organizations that are dedicated to turning dreams into reality for low-income families, individuals, veterans, and seniors. These organizations offer life-changing experiences and opportunities that can bring joy and hope to those facing life-threatening illnesses or challenging circumstances.
From Twilight Wish, which honors low-income seniors, to Do It For The Love, providing the power of music, and Dream Factory, fulfilling dreams for children, these organizations cover a wide range of needs and aspirations. AARP’s Wish of a Lifetime focuses on seniors’ life-affirming experiences.One Day to Remember brightens lives amidst cancer, the Cameron Simers Foundation for Hope empowers young adults to make a difference, and Warrior’s Wish honors injured post-9/11 veterans. Forever Young Veterans fulfills dreams for senior veterans, and the Marty Lyons Foundation grants wishes for children, creating priceless memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I apply for assistance from these wish-granting organizations?
The application process varies depending on the organization. Generally, you can visit the organization’s website and look for their application guidelines and forms. Each organization has specific eligibility criteria, so make sure you meet the requirements before applying.
Are these wish-granting organizations only for people with serious medical conditions?
No, while some organizations focus on individuals with life-threatening illnesses, others serve veterans, seniors, and even children facing various challenges, including developmental delays and family trauma. The eligibility criteria vary, so check with the specific organization to see if you or your loved one qualifies.
Do these organizations charge any fees for their services?
Most wish-granting organizations do not charge fees for their services. They rely on donations, grants, and the generosity of supporters to fulfill wishes. However, it’s essential to verify the specific policies of each organization, as some may have nominal administrative fees or require participants to cover certain expenses.
Can I volunteer or donate to these organizations to support their mission?
Absolutely! Many wish-granting organizations welcome volunteers and donations to help fulfill wishes and support their operations. Visit their websites to find information on how to get involved or make a contribution.
Are these organizations limited to specific regions or states?
While some organizations operate nationwide, others may have chapters or branches in specific states or regions. The eligibility criteria and availability of wishes may vary depending on your location. Check the organization’s website to determine if they serve your area.