FAQs About Us

The Make-A-Wish Story

Chapter Facts

Counties Served

Partners

FAQs

CHAPTER FACTS

Beginnings

In 1983, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri became the 23rd chartered chapter, due in large part to the efforts of June Holman. In its early years, Johnny Johnson, who served as a member of the original board of directors, was the backbone of the organization. Johnson traveled throughout the state, handling most of the wishes personally. Eventually, he recruited volunteers in the Sikeston area to help.

By 1992, the chapter was granting approximately 20 wishes per year. At that time, the board voted to hire the first Make-A-Wish staff person. Arla Price was hired as executive director March 1, 1992. Office space was secured in the basement of the Mid-America Cancer Center. In 1993, the chapter hired a part-time wish coordinator, and the position became a full-time job the following year.

Transitions

In 1999, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri established its own home, moving into a building built on land purchased by an anonymous donor.

In 2003, the chapter celebrated its 20th year of granting wishes. As of that year, the chapter had granted over 950 wishes. In 2005, a total of 105 wishes were granted, and we anticipate granting 140 wishes during the 2006-07 fiscal year.