Donor Spotlights: Why We Donate
Joanne Kientz
Since 1997, Make-A-Wish has been a part of Joanne’s life; from donating to volunteering to attending
events, she has always found a way to get involved. Joanne’s involvement has created relationships
with many staff members at Make-A-Wish Colorado and given her numerous opportunities to
experience the joy of seeing children’s wishes being granted.
“Make-A-Wish is a great organization that gives children and their families a break from reality,”
Joanne said. “It is amazing to see the smile on each child’s face.”
Not only does Joanne donate and volunteer, she has made plans to benefit Make-A-Wish Colorado
in her estate. Her selflessness and dedication never goes unnoticed. Thank you Joanne for constantly
supporting Make-A-Wish’s mission!
Gary & Cheryl McDowell
Gary and Cheryl have been Make-A-Wish Colorado donors since 2000, when Gary attended a car show and purchased raffle tickets
supporting Make-A-Wish; he later learned that it was his wife’s favorite foundation. Since then, it has evolved into something special for the two.
After Cheryl’s dad, George, passed away, they began to find money around the house. From coins to larger dollar amounts, the money kept
appearing. When they would talk to each other about it, one of them would make another discovery soon after. They began to call this “George
money” in honor of Cheryl’s father. Taking this as a sign from her father, they decided to keep the money in a jar, and when it was filled they
would donate it to Make-A-Wish Colorado, since George had a heart for kids.
After Cheryl’s mom passed not long ago, Gary and Cheryl decided to ask for donations to Make-A-Wish Colorado instead of accepting flowers
or other gifts. “It became my mother and father’s legacy,” said Cheryl. “It has become something personal.”
Not only do the two donate the money that they believe is left to them by her father, they often times match this amount and donate their own
money. By doing this with their own kids, it has become somewhat of a family tradition. We can’t thank these two enough for being so involved
and generous throughout the years!
View Our Complete List of Donors
Generous donors make it possible for Make-A-Wish Colorado to change lives. We welcome and genuinely appreciate all donations.
Whether you make a one-time gift or set up a monthly donation, you are essential to helping share the power of a wish®.
Visit colorado.wish.org/donors to view our complete list of donors and supporters.
8 ∙ Wish Colorado | 2014 – 2015