Orlando is a city where dreams take flight. From the magic of theme parks to the excitement of world-class entertainment, it’s a place where imagination knows no bounds.
But for children facing critical illnesses, dreams can sometimes feel just out of reach. That’s where Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida® steps in, granting life-changing wishes that bring hope, strength, and joy to local families.
Every April, World Wish Month serves as a global celebration of the power of a wish. It’s a time for the Orlando community to come together, give back, and help make more wishes come true. Whether through fundraising, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, there are countless ways to support the mission of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida and help create unforgettable experiences for children in need.
Want to be part of the magic? Here’s how you can celebrate World Wish Month in Orlando and make a difference.
What Is World Wish Month?
It all started on a single day in 1980, when a 7-year-old boy named Chris Greicius—who was battling leukemia—received his wish to become a police officer for a day. This single wish was not only the inspiration behind World Wish Month, it was the beginning of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Today, Make-A-Wish operates in nearly 50 countries, granting thousands of life-changing wishes each year for children with critical illnesses. And what began as a single wish has now blossomed into a celebration that lasts for the entire month of April.
The global movement culminates on April 29—World Wish Day—the anniversary of Chris’s wish, which serves as a reminder of how a single act of kindness can create a ripple effect of hope and healing.
But wishes don’t happen without the support of the community. By getting involved this April, you can help bring even more dreams to life for local Wish Kids. Here’s how you can celebrate World Wish Month in Orlando and make an impact.
How You Can Celebrate World Wish Month in Orlando
Orlando is a city full of dreamers and doers, making it the perfect place to celebrate World Wish Month. Whether you’re looking to attend a special event, start a fundraiser, or donate, there are many ways to get involved and help grant life-changing wishes.
1. Reserve Your Spot at the Wishmakers Ball Orlando
The Wishmaker’s Ball is an elegant evening dedicated to granting wishes for local children. While this highly anticipated event takes place in May, it’s the perfect way to cap off World Wish Month and continue supporting the mission.
Secure your spot and be part of an inspiring night of giving.
2. Join runDisney’s Springtime Surprise Race (April 3-6)
Looking for a way to get active while giving back? The runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend is a great opportunity to fundraise for Make-A-Wish while taking part in a magical race through Walt Disney World. The event takes place April 3-6, 2025, making it a perfect opportunity to celebrate World Wish Month!
Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps bring wishes to life.
3. Visit a Participating Business
Throughout April, many Orlando-area businesses partner with Make-A-Wish, donating a portion of their sales or hosting special promotions to support local wish kids. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, going on a trip, or visiting an entertainment venue, your purchase could help make a dream come true.
4. Start a Fundraiser at Work or School
Businesses, schools, and community groups can get involved by hosting dress-down days, bake sales, or friendly fundraising challenges. A simple team effort can help raise significant funds to grant more wishes in Central and Northern Florida.
Get creative and rally your coworkers or classmates to make an impact this April!
5. Make a One-Time or Monthly Donation
Not able to attend an event? You can still support Make-A-Wish by making a donation—whether it’s a one-time contribution, a recurring monthly gift, or an in-kind donation. Every dollar makes a difference and helps bring hope, strength, and joy to local children.
6. Volunteer for Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish relies on dedicated volunteers to help bring wishes to life. Whether it’s assisting at events, working behind the scenes, or helping with wish-granting efforts, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make a lasting difference.
No matter how you choose to celebrate World Wish Month, your support helps create unforgettable experiences for children in need. Ready to get involved? Find out how you can make an impact today!
Make Wishes Come True
Orlando’s generosity has already helped grant countless wishes, bringing joy, strength, and hope to children facing critical illnesses. But there are still so many dreams waiting to come true—and you can be part of making them happen.
Whether you donate, volunteer, or attend an event, your support during World Wish Month makes a real difference for local Wish Kids and their families. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps create life-changing experiences that give children the hope and resilience they need.
Ready to be part of something truly magical? Join us in celebrating World Wish Month and help make more wishes come true.
