I wish to have unlimited costumes
Avery, 8 inflammatory disorder
SEPTEMBER 2024 - AUGUST 2025
A Message from Scott Rosenzweig
Welcome to our Make-A-Wish Nevada annual report for fiscal year 2025. A reminder that our fiscal year is from September 1 to August 31 each year. We work tirelessly to be the prescription of hope for wish kids and their families going through the unimaginable. While we would welcome the day that we must go out of business because children are no longer fighting critical illnesses, that day has yet to come. And until that day comes, thank you for being on this journey with us.
This fiscal year, we reunited the state. After being Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada for a lot of years (since 1996), we’re now, once again, ensuring every child fighting a critical illness in ALL of Nevada gets their heartfelt wish as Make-A-Wish Nevada. Already we’ve seen year over year increases in our referrals, as well as our wish granting in that region and thanks to our Regional Committee in Reno, we’re on the path to seeing even more amazing wishes get granted this fiscal year.
As you review this report, I encourage you to take some time to get to know just a few of the kiddos whose wishes we granted this past year. All 168 wishes that we granted have created lasting memories for these families and all of us, as a team. In addition to the 168 wishes for children in Nevada, we also facilitated 80 wishes from across the globe for kiddos who wanted to have their wish here in Nevada! At WWE alone, we hosted 25 Wish Kiddos and over a hundred people (with all of their participants), for the week of multiple WWE events. No small task and we’re grateful for our National team’s support as well as all of our local volunteers who assist us in making these wishes so special.
We know that you are the reason we’re able to grant these wishes. Your support continues to allow us to get closer and closer to fulfilling our mission of granting a wish for every child battling a critical illness in Nevada. Simply put, we can’t do it without you and I’m grateful we don’t have to as you continue to step up time and time again to help us grant wishes.
As we look at fiscal year 2026, we’ll continue to capitalize on the momentum we’ve begun in Northern Nevada and across the entire state. Finding and funding every child’s wish. Please consider joining us at one of our signature events or discovering new ways to support Make-A-Wish Nevada by visiting our website and clicking on “Ways to Help.”
Almost every 30 minutes, a child is diagnosed with a critical illness. Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Thank you and now, let’s grant some wishes…together.
Wishfully yours,
Special Recognition to our FY25 Board of Directors
Keith Hansen, Chair
Dan Smithman, Vice Chair
Heather Harris, Past Chair Advisor
David Navarro, Treasurer
Todd Rodenberg, Vice Treasurer
Steve Schauer, Secretary
Jodie Sacco, Past Secretary
Travis Scribner
Jeanette Schneider
Melissa Akkaway
Lou Borrego
Jacob Bundick
Sean Clancy
Kristine Creel
Dr. Joseph Lasky
Laura Overton
Michael Gennaro
Anita Pomerantz
Jennifer Vitale
Contact Details
Make-A-Wish Nevada 9950 Covington Cross Drive
Las Vegas, NV 89144
Phone: 702-212-9474
wish.org/nv
Follow Us!
@makeawishnevada
Scott Rosenzweig President & CEO
With Gratitude to Keith Hansen
As fiscal year 2025 marked the conclusion of Keith Hansen’s term as Board Chair, we extend our deepest appreciation for his remarkable leadership and steadfast dedication to Make-A-Wish Nevada. As Keith completes his ninth year of service as a board member in August 2026, including his time as Former Board Chair, his influence continues to shape the strength and future of our chapter.
Throughout his tenure, Keith generously lent his time, expertise, and heart to the organization—playing key role in the reunification of the chapter to cover the entire state, supporting staff, leading with integrity, and championing the mission at events and throughout the community. Even as he transitions from the Board Chair role, Keith remains deeply invested in our success by mentoring the incoming Board Chair David R. Navarro, ensuring continuity, collaboration, and strong leadership for the road ahead.
We are profoundly grateful for Keith’s vision, compassion, and unwavering commitment. His legacy is one of service, leadership, and lasting impact—felt by our team, our board, and the wish families we serve across Nevada.
It has been both an honor and a privilege to serve the past two years as Board Chair for Make-AWish Nevada. During this time, our incredible team granted more than 300 wishes, reunified the Northern and Southern Nevada territories into a single chapter— Make-A-Wish Nevada—and established key partnerships that will sustain our mission for years to come. Being part of an organization that literally writes prescriptions for hope for children facing life-threatening illnesses has been both humbling and inspiring. I am deeply proud of this extraordinary team—our staff, volunteers, donors, and fellow board members—and grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside you. Thank you for continuing to bring hope, happiness, and love to our remarkable wish kids and their families.”
— Keith Hansen, Former Board
Chair
Dear Keith,
Your path with Make-A-Wish Nevada has been nothing short of inspiring and continues to inspire both my staff and me. From the moment you joined us in 2017, you made it clear that your goal was to be part of a cause that lifts burdens and brings smiles to children’s faces. You helped us accomplish exactly that time and time again as a Board Member and during your tenure as Board Chair.
You made it your mission to solidify the partnership between Make-A-Wish Nevada and local businesses and business leaders. You assisted us with Allegiant Air, during your time with that company, by aligning Allegiant’s community with our chapter’s mission to grant life-changing wishes. Drawing on your airline leadership and board service, you streamlined travel support for wish families, expanded employee engagement, volunteerism, and elevated joint storytelling. Through your vision and execution, the partnership became a durable, scalable model that delivers measurable impact and extends hope to children and families across Nevada.
I’m not sure if it is your law background or just a Keith Hansen thing but I’ve watched you as conversations get passionate, to calmly guide those conversations into productivity due to your expertise. You’re also never afraid to have a lone idea in the room, something I admire greatly and try to emulate in my own leadership.
What truly sets you apart is the heart you bring to this mission and everything that you do. Your dedication goes beyond compliance, strategy, and logistics; it reflects deep compassion for the children and families we serve. You’ve shown that leadership is not just about guiding organizations, but about inspiring people to believe in the power of hope and themselves. Because of your efforts, countless children have experienced moments of joy that will stay with them forever, and families have felt the comfort of knowing they are not alone on their journey.
The impact you’ve made will continue to ripple through families and communities for years to come. Thank you for being a champion of our mission and for reminding us all that when we work together with purpose and heart, we can make wishes come true.
With wishes in the air and magic all around, Scott Rosenzweig, on behalf of The Make-A-Wish Nevada Team
1982 1996 2024
Make-A-Wish Nevada is established as the organization’s second chapter, bringing hope, strength, and joy to children across the Silver State.
Make-A-Wish Nevada splits into two chapters, serving Northern and Southern Nevada as the wish movement continues to grow statewide.
The Northern and Southern Nevada chapters reunite as Make-A-Wish Nevada, uniting the state once again to serve every community—including rural Nevada—and celebrating more than 2,900 life-changing wishes granted to date.
Nevada, United by Wishes.
In fiscal year 2025, Make-A-Wish Northern and Southern Nevada officially came together as one unified chapter, strengthening our ability to serve children across the entire state. From urban centers to rural communities, this reunification marked a new chapter rooted in collaboration and shared purpose. The photos on this page highlight community moments from both Northern and Southern Nevada—bringing together volunteers, partners, and supporters who help make wishes possible statewide.
The Year at Make-A-Wish Nevada
FASHION LUNCHEON
The 23rd annual Fashion Luncheon returned to Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and made its new home at Papi Steak. Once again it hosted over 180 community members in attendance. Together, attendees raised more than $1.2 million in a single afternoon to support the Make-A-Wish mission to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Looks from this year’s featured designer, Missoni, were modeled during a fashion show, and Wish Kids Sai and Ciarra shared their story of how getting their wishes granted provided them with the time they needed to move on through otherwise very dark times.
Starry Night$520K+Jan 2025 (FY2025)
WALK FOR WISHES
STARRY NIGHT
As Make-A-Wish Nevada’s largest in-person fundraising effort, we were thrilled to bring the 24th annual Walk for Wishes, presented by Allegiant, back to Town Square Las Vegas. This year’s event took place on April 26, 2025. The event attracted community members and sponsors from across the valley who wanted to support the more than 2,900 life-changing wishes already granted in Nevada while raising over $480K to grant future wishes. The event emcees, News 3’s Kim & Dana Wagner and Mix 94.1’s Mercedes & Steph, along with last year’s Wish Kid recipient granted a gaming wish for Max in front of over 1,500 community supporters. It was a beautiful, sunny day and a wonderful event! Fashion Luncheon
$1.2MNov (FY2025)2024
Returning for its second year, Starry Night shined brighter than ever. In partnership with Red Rock Resort & Casino, UFC, and The Bennett Family Foundation, the event elevated the VIP casino experience and achieved an increase in funds raised from its inaugural year. The evening featured lively table games, exceptional culinary offerings, and a highenergy poker tournament, creating an unforgettable night in support of Make-A-Wish Nevada’s mission.
WAFFLES AND WISHES
This inspiring morning on April 4th at Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada brought together wish families, volunteers, corporate partners, and community supporters to celebrate the life-changing power of a Wish. Guests enjoyed a heartwarming waffle breakfast experience, uplifting wish stories, and participated in an exciting wish auction and on-stage Australia wish reveal that inspired generosity and community spirit. We raised $200k to grant wishes here in Nevada, one waffle at a time!
Waffles and Wishes
$200KApr 2025 (FY2025)
WISH ASSIST
For many wish kids, Nevada is more than a destination—it’s a place where joy, wonder, and possibility come to life. Through Wish Assist, Make-A-Wish Nevada opens its arms to children from chapters across the country and around the world, welcoming them to experience moments they will carry with them forever. Whether it’s the excitement of Formula 1, cheering at a major sporting event, meeting someone they admire, or enjoying a classic Vegas show, each wish is a reminder that hope knows no borders. In fiscal year 2025, we were honored to host 80 wish assists, including a record breaking number of 25 wish kids from the US and Canada, to come together in Las Vegas for WrestleMania—a powerful celebration of connection, courage, and joy.
168 Wishes Granted Class of 2025
MEET JULIAN
I wish to go to Hawaii
Julian, 5 leukemia
Julian is an energetic and fun-loving five-year-old who adores playgrounds, swimming, and riding his bike. A big fan of Paw Patrol and Moana, he’s happiest with a McDonald’s hamburger in hand and a beach adventure in his dreams.
Diagnosed with leukemia in July 2021, Julian has endured years of intense treatment, including monthly lumbar punctures and chemotherapy. One of the toughest moments was an early infection from his port placement, which led to a long hospital stay. But through all the hard times, Moana has been his guiding light—fueling his dream to one day feel the sand beneath his feet and see the ocean with his own eyes.
That wish took a magical step forward on his birthday, when the Las Vegas Aces helped reveal his wish at the Wishing Place! Julian
celebrated with a custom cake, balloons, and a special birthday party surrounded by joy and excitement.
In May 2025, Julian’s wish finally came true—he traveled to Hawaii with his family. It was his first time at the beach, and he soaked in every moment: collecting seashells, splashing in the ocean, and embracing the natural beauty of the islands.
Julian’s wish brought healing, happiness, and hope—a heartwarming reminder that even the smallest adventurers can experience the biggest magic.
MEET JANIA
I wish to have a princess birthday bash
Jania, 4 gastroinstestinal disorder
Four-year-old Jania, despite facing medical challenges, is known for her fiery and spirited personality. Her mom shares that while frequent hospital visits can be tough, Jania still finds joy in typical four-year-old activities like meeting new friends, reading, riding her scooter, collecting LOL Dolls, playing Barbies, and watching Peppa Pig on repeat.
Jania’s past birthdays were spent in the hospital, preventing her from truly celebrating her birthday. This inspired her wish for a grand princess birthday bash, a day where she could just be a kid without restrictions. And when her wish came true, it was everything she had wished for! Jania loved every moment of her special day, where she got to be a princess with a tiara on her head and joy in her heart. The celebration featured a reallife princess, face painting, and
an amazing balloon artist. Jania was surrounded by friends and family, dancing and laughing without a care in the world. Thanks to Raising Canes, there was plenty of delicious food at a generous deal, and Freed’s Bakery donated a stunning cake fit for royalty. This wish day was a celebration of Jania’s resilience and lively spirit—a reminder of the happiness that dreams bring to life. Here’s to more days of play, laughter, and love, Princess Jania!
Watch Jania’s Wish
Fiscal Year 2025 Results
Fiscal Year 2025 saw a reduction in wishes granted year-over-year, as our record-breaking number of wishes granted the previous year, combined with a decline in referrals in 2024, resulted in our smallest pipeline at the start of 2025. But we quickly capitalized on new national data on qualifying condition incidence rates and increased our referrals by 33% in 2025 to a record-high 210 (setting up our fiscal year 2026 with a larger pipeline to support a return to higher wishgranting counts). Financially, however, 2025 saw another record-breaking year of total revenue, and without a significant bequest like prior years. Our wish cash cost average decreased by 3%, while our in-kind average cost increased by 16% — we stretched our donor dollars further with this push!
& Year-Over-Year Comparison
** Wish Assists are wish children from other Make-A-Wish chapters around the world whose wishes occur in Las Vegas. We help with local reservations and wish planning.
Investment Income
$537,097
Wish Assist Fees $29,000
Other $110,655
◊Represents a chapter record *COVID19 years restricted travel
Total Revenue $6,365,083 Total Wishes FY25 Functional Expense Allocation*
*Pre-audit
Thank you to our Cash Donors
Wish Founder ($200,000+)
Anonymous
Linda & Bill Richardson
Wish Visionary ($100,000+)
Jill and Frank Fertitta
The Robl Family
Stella Roy UFC
William B Malega Trust
William N. Pennington Foundation
Wish Innovator ($50,000+)
Allegiant
Car Donation Foundation
Dimopoulos Law Firm
Dutch Bros
Everi Holdings, Inc.
MGM Resorts Foundation
Joseph U. Oswald
Southern Nevada Toyota Dealers
The Bennett Family
Yvette & Ellis Landau
Wish Leader ($25,000+)
Vegas Golden Knights
Anonymous
Intermountain Healthcare
Lynne Ruffin-Smith Charitable Foundation
The Binion Family
Angel McNeal
Ato Delta Lota
Betty Evans
Bilek Charitable Foundation
Billy Ching and Liliana Pereda
Blair May Bigelow
Caesars Entertainment
Victoria Otter
Washoe County Golf Course
Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel
Nation Community Outreach
Wish Champion ($15,000+)
David Revzin
Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Howard Hughes Corporation
James Wickman
Kelly and Danny Pettit
Palm Mortuaries
Raymond
Roberto’s Taco Shop
Tenenbaum Family Foundation
The Las Vegas A’s
The Moore Family
United Nissan
Victoria Fertitta Family
Western Nevada Supply Co
America First Credit Union
Chanel
Charity Benefits Unlimited, LLC
Cobly Bekhor
Cure4TheKids Foundation
David Wolk
Debbie Creel
Diane Gentile & Family
Donna Isaacs
Dr. Charles Tapp
E.L. Cord Foundation
ECL Entertainment
Engage Your Best, LLC
Everything’s Possible Foundation, Inc
Fasteners Inc
Fontainebleau
Gina Schonfeld
Gregory Roberts
Heidemarie Rochlin
Immordino Charitable Foundation
Janice Hertig
Jason Koon
Jeff Sisco
Marcia Chami
Renown Health
Black Bear Diner
Columbia Bank
Jam’s World
Kelly Garfield
ALS USA, Inc.
Angela Chiu
Ans Electric, LLC
Anytime Garage Door Service, LLC
Archibald C. & Frances F. Rufty
Foundation
Ashlee Montagano
Austin General Contracting, Inc.
Benjamin Tollerene
Bombard Electric
Bombard Mechanical
Candace Sartini
Carrie Conlin
Chapman Las Vegas
Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram
Community Foundation of Northern Nevada
Courtney Blanchard
Diana Bennett
Dior Couture
Dulcinea Rongavilla
Eric Mensinger
Farah Galfond
Franceen Dunn
Geri Rumbolz
Gold Dust West
Goldberg Injury Law
Hot August Nights Foundation
Jared Penn
Jess Molasky
Absolute Flood Response
Alex Hultz
Almario Gumabon
Andrew Jenkin
Annemarie Jones
Audacy, Inc
Barbara Tapp
Ben Cabrera
Boyd Gaming Corporation
Bruce Thacher
Carl Fleming
Carlos Ruisanchez
Caroline White
CCSD Shadow Ridge High School
CCSD Western High School
Charlene Durham
Cheryl Garber
Christy Molasky
Contract Flooring
Robyn & Brad Englert
Sands Cares - Las Vegas Sands Corp.
Shelley & Thomas Burns
Stephanie Fitzgerald
The Laska Family
The Morris A. Hazan Family Foundation
Thomas Bennett
Tracey Gulli
White Pine High School
World Pizza Champions
Yogurtland Henderson
Wish Captain ($7,500+)
Kenia Gutierrez
Lauren Chew
Leslie Kenny
Wish Star ($5,000+)
Joseph E. Lamberger
Joyce Toti
Katherine Maddox
Kathy Schaffer
Kelley Nemiro
Kolten Aleman
Laila Spiegel
Larry Ruvo & Family
Las Vegas Chapter of Speedway
Children’s Charities
Light & Wonder, Inc.
Lindsay Presswood
Lindsey Slanker
Lou Borrego
Louise & Joe Murphy
Marcia Lu
Martin-Harris Construction
Mary Hilty
Matthew Garrett
Melissa Warren
Michael Marin
Murphy Family
Naqvi Law
Natasha Spinella
Ovation Development
Paula Fouce
Rory Higgins
Sanborn Family
Wish Friend ($2,500+)
Jean McCusker
Dana Debiparshad
Darrel
Swope Middle School
Donald Yapp
Donna Fackrell
Edward Jones Investments
Endre Holen
Eric Scolari
Esther Kim
First Independent Bank of Nevada
Gadi Shamia
Golden Era Dart Players
Good Giant
Grand Sierra Resort And Casino
Guild
Mortgage Company
Heritage Bank of Nevada
Hugh Bassewitz
James Battista
Jason Candler & Associates, LLC
Jason Mattson
Jeanette Schneider
Jennifer Edenfield
Jessica Wooden
Jodie Sacco
Joe Wickman
Joseph Chaulklin
Katie O’Neill
Kealani Quinabo
Keith Hansen
Keith Seiden
Kohls
Konami Gaming, Inc.
Kristina Hansen
Krystal Galindo
Las Vegas Day School
Lisa Bigelow
Martin Iron Works, Inc.
Mezzo Bistro & Wine
Michael Del Gatto
Michael Trager
Microsoft
Mike Mantis
Mindee Mastrov
Molasky Family Foundation
Mothership Coffee Roasters
Myra Kotick
Natalie & Don Dees
Nelson Lopez
NeuroRestorative 4Kids
Northern Nevada Health SystemsUHS
Ormat Technologies
Pam Holman
Panattoni Development Company, Inc.
Patricia Bullentini
Paul Miller
Melinda Kennedy
Patricia & Dr. Ralph Nietrzeba
Silver State Masonry
Steve & Tanya Alford
Shayla Gifford
Smithman Productions
Suncoast Power LLC
Susan Fine
Target
Technology West Group
Tivoli Village
Todd Rodenberg
TWP Partners LLC
Western Surgical Group
William Balelo
Willoughby Shulman
Injury Attorneys
Wynn Resorts Foundation
Rail City Garden Center
Raul Martinez
Redmond Family
RHP Mechanical Systems, Inc.
Robert B Thompson
Robert Musgrove
Samuel Schwartz
Sandra Delancey
Sergio Ruedas
Sierra Miles Group, LLC
SilverSummit HealthPlan
Stella Woelfel
Stephen Chidwick
Stratosphere Hotel & Casino
Tiana Arcangel
Tom Davis
Topgolf Las Vegas
UBS
Washoe County Sheriff’s Office
Thank you to
Our In-kind Donors
WISH ICON
$250,000+
Give Kids The World
WISH VISIONARY
$100,000+
Disneyland Resort
Red Rock Casino Resort And Spa
Station Casinos, LLC
WISH INNOVATOR
$50,000+
Audacy, Inc
Encore Productions
Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Lamar Advertising Las Vegas
Penta Building Group, Inc.
Royal Carribean Cruise Line
Southwest Airlines
Thrive Aviation
WISH LEADER
$25,000+
Formula 1 Las Vegas
Forte Specialty Contractors
Grand Sierra Resort And Casino
Telemundo - Las Vegas
WISH CHAMPION
$15,000+
Avis - Cendant Car Rental Group
Destinations By Design
Universal Studios Hollywood
Thank you to
WISH HERO
$10,000+
Damien Hirst
Diana Bennett
Disney Aulani Resort & Spa
Disney Cruise Line
Kayserbetten
WISH CAPTAIN
$7,500+
A Campagna Co. LLC
BravoTickets.com
Camping World
Chase
Clique Hospitality
Levy Restaurants
Martin-Harris Construction
R&K Concrete Cutting
Specialty Roll Products, Inc.
The Estate Jewelry Collection
WISH STAR
$5,000+
Aspen Earthworks
Channel 3 - KSNV TV
Dana Debiparshad
Hyatt Regency Maui
Judith Roen-Smith
Knotts Berry Farm
Kristine Creel
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar - Downtown
Summerlin
Legoland Hotel
Our Legacy Donors
LV Luxury Holdings
R & J Painting
Reliable Framing
Smithman Productions
Steve Stowe
WISH FRIEND
$2,500+
Alpine Roofing Company
CPR Tents & Events
Danielle Barille
Dec N Deets
FoundRae
Freedom Crane Service Corp
Garden Shop Nursery
Gina Schonfeld
Great Wolf Lodge
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa
Just One Eye
Kelley Nemiro
Monster Reign
Nuance Aesthetics - Plastic Surgery
Sea World
Sheraton Waikiki
Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits
Tom Ford International
Total Show Technology
Wynn Resorts Foundation
By including the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Nevada in their estate plans, these donors will provide the resources necessary to grant inspiring wishes for children now and in the future. Ensure your legacy lives on through wishes with a legacy gift by naming Make-A-Wish Nevada in your will. Visit plannedgiving.wish.org for more information.
Anonymous
Barbara F. Tapp
Biel Family Trust
BND Management Trust
Cherie Tonkin
Cheryl Hartfield
Dorothy Lois Breese Irrevocable Trust
Edwartoski Living Trust
Estate of Lorraine S. Berry
Frances Pearl Rotisky Estate
Hortense G. Koller Living Trust
John Braschi
Kay Doolittle Trust
Laura Jane Noble
Lois & Park Miller
Mary Ann Baigier
Michael Ashley
Richard J. Simms
The Cathy McCarthy Living Trust
The Laura and Peter Weidenfeld Trust
The Lionel Trust
The Murren Family Trust
Todd R. Morse
Tom Wolf
Wilmington Trust Company
Meet Our Regional Committee!
The Northern Nevada Regional Committee represents Make-A-Wish Nevada in the northern part of our state, serving as passionate ambassadors of our mission. This dedicated group of professionals brings their expertise, networks, and guidance to help shape programs, advise the chapter, and ensure wishes come true for children in their region.
In fiscal year 2025, the committee raised over $500,000 from 265 generous donors, supporting wishes and making a tangible impact in communities across Northern Nevada. Beyond fundraising, committee members are visible champions of our mission—hosting local wish reveals, lending their presence to external events like Swish for a Wish and the Hope Golf Tournament, and representing Make-A-Wish Nevada in the local media.
Through their leadership, energy, and unwavering support, the Northern Nevada Regional Committee plays a vital role in bringing hope, strength, and joy to children and families across the region.
Northern Nevada Regional Committee
Christopher Abraham, Co-Chair / Waffles & Wishes Committee Chair
Eric Scolari, Co-Chair
Donna Stewart, Vice Chair
Marcia Lu, MD, Secretary
Kristina Hansen MD, RDN, Medical Advisor
Tanya Alford, Wish Engagement Committee Chair
Shannon Bonetti, Regional Public Relations Chair
Lou (Luis) Borrego, Chapter Board Member
Natalie Dees
Don Dees
Kristina (Kris) Deeter MD, MBA, FAAP
Darin Menante
Rob (Robert) Thayer
Alex Hilgenberg
Brad Woodring
Jessica Montenegro
Wishfully Ever After
One of the biggest misconceptions about Make-A-Wish is that it is a last wish. For so many of our wish kids, it is a lasting wish. Many credit their wish experience as a turning point in their medical treatment, giving them the strength needed to fight their critical illness. Here at Make-A-Wish Nevada, we celebrate our wish alumni –young and old – whose wishes filled them with hope and joy to not just feel better, but sometimes to get better. Here is one of their stories:
Meet Doron
Doron has always been a teammate at heart— fun-loving, kind, and empathetic, with a big smile that lights up every room. Team sports like football and baseball were his world, until a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2017 pulled him from the fields he loved.
I wish to meet the Vegas Golden Knights
Doron, 13 wish granted, 2019 lymphoma
Months of hospital stays and chemotherapy followed, but Doron found hope in an unexpected place: cheering on the Vegas Golden Knights during their debut season. As the team skated to the Stanley Cup Finals, Doron felt inspired to fight alongside them—believing that if they could beat the odds, so could he.
Doron’s wish was granted in 2019, keeping him close to home and on the ice. From a helicopter reveal over the Las Vegas Strip to skating at City National Arena as an honorary player, guided by his hero MarcAndré Fleury, Doron lived a day full of joy, excitement, and inspiration. Today, Doron is 19 years old and chasing his passion for hockey in Jacksonville, Florida, with the Bold City Battalion. His story reminds us that most wish kids go on to live full, vibrant lives—proving that a wish isn’t just a moment of magic, it’s a boost of hope, confidence, and resilience that can last a lifetime.
Medical Partners: Reaching Every Child, Statewide
Every wish begins with a referral—and in fiscal year 2025, our reunification as one Make-A-Wish Nevada chapter strengthened our ability to work hand-in-hand with medical partners across the entire state. Nowhere is that partnership more evident than in Northern Nevada, where Renown Children’s Hospital plays a critical role in helping us reach eligible children and families.
In FY25, 75% of the 40 referrals from Northern Nevada were Renown patients, underscoring the importance of trusted, local medical relationships. Through close collaboration with Renown pediatric social workers Brigette Villalobos and Jenny Perez Batres, families are guided with compassion and care through the referral process—often at moments when hope is needed most.
Renown’s leadership has also been deeply engaged in advancing our mission. Dr. Deeter, a physician leader at Renown, served on the Make-A-Wish Nevada Medical Advisory Committee in FY25 and continues to support the chapter through involvement on the Northern Nevada Regional Committee, helping bridge medical insight with community leadership.
Of the 168 wishes granted statewide in FY25, 20% were for children from Northern Nevada, and 67% of those children were receiving treatment at Renown—a powerful reflection of what’s possible through collaboration.
As Brigette Villalobos shared, “Getting to see the kids be excited about something bigger than their illness has been really exciting.” Together with Renown, we are ensuring that every eligible child in Northern Nevada—and across the state—has access to the life-changing power of a wish.
MEDICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Chair – Dr. Anita Pomerantz
Medical Director, Thomas Dermatology
Dr. Waseem Alhushki
Director of Oncology, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation
Dr. Beata Kwiatowska
Medical Director, CSL Plasma and Fresenius Kidney Care
Claudia Clendenin
Licensed Social Worker, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation
Dr. Brandi Landis
Associate ER Director & Physician, Spring Valley Hospital
Dr. Jenifer Powers
Pediatric Orthopedist, Crovetti Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Dr. Cherubin Sumaway
Medical Director, Anthem Medical Group
Dr. Caroline Nguyen
Pediatrician, Nevada Pediatric Specialists
Dr. Tiffany Walker Sigal
ER Physician
Dr. Dipti Patel
Physician & Clinical Research
Natalie Wright Director of Pediatric Admissions, 1CareKids Hospice
Angela Lee, Sr. Director of Revenue Cycle Management, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation
Dr. Claudia Vogel
Endocrinologist, Private Practice
Kaitlin Rowe
Clinical Supervisor, Children’s Medical Center Summerlin Hospital
Angela Brennan
Clinical Supervisor, Children’s Medical Center Summerlin Hospital
Dr. Kristina Deeter
Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital
Dr. Kristin Hansen Post Medical Spa
Dr. Mary Kiepert
Pediatrician, Tendercare Pediatrics
Dr. Elizabeth Mileti
Pediatric Gastroenterologist, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition Associates
Eligible Referrals in FY25
TOP REFERRAL SOURCE CLINICS
Cure 4 The Kids Foundation
Renown Children’s Hospital
Children’s Heart Center Nevada
ProCare Hospice of Nevada
1CareKids Hospice
Primary Children’s Hospital*
*This facility exists outside the Make-A-Wish Nevada region but still provides treatment and care for our Nevada wish children.
Renown SW - Jenny and Brigette
A Record Year in Referrals
At Make-A-Wish Nevada, every wish starts with a referral—and in fiscal year 2025, our community’s trust helped us achieve 210 eligible referrals, one of our strongest years ever. Each referral represents a child ready for hope, joy, and the life-changing power of a wish.
Our commitment to connecting with families, hospitals, and healthcare partners was recognized nationally when we received the Healthcare Partner Award from the Make-A-Wish National Office—a tribute to our dedication to ensuring every eligible child, no matter where they live in Nevada, has the opportunity for a wish.
It’s an honor to see our efforts recognized, but the real reward is the kids’ smile on their wishes.”
— Marcia Buendia, Outreach Manager
This milestone is more than numbers—it’s about relationships and impact. From medical teams who share referrals, to volunteers and families who champion our mission, each referral is a lifeline for a child facing a critical illness.
Eligible Referrals
Every referral is a doorway to hope, joy, and a wish come true.”
— Scott Rosenzweig, President and CEO
As we celebrate this year, we also look ahead—eager to grow our referral network, deepen our partnerships, and continue to ensure that every eligible child in Nevada experiences the life-changing power of a wish.
RECORD BREAKING
Volunteers: The Heart of Our Organization
206
Active
Volunteers
THE FACERS:
Champions of Hope
In FY25 The Volunteer Hangar was adopted by lifelong volunteer Dave Revzin and his late wife Pat, whose dedication has impacted countless wish kids and families
1,994 43
Volunteer Hours Served in FY25
Tommy and Krissy Facer are among the many hearts of Make-A-Wish Nevada, giving extraordinary time, talent, and love to bring wishes to life. Over the past seven years, this dedicated couple has gone above and beyond—supporting wish reveals, outreach events, and fundraisers, often taking on back-to-back roles in a single day.
The Facers maximize every resource to create the most meaningful experiences for wish kids. They stretch budgets with personal contributions, provide their pickup truck to transport wish items, bring decorations and supplies, and leverage their professional networks to enhance events at no additional cost. Krissy, a professional baker, adds a sweet touch with personalized treats for wish reveals, while Tommy ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Their commitment doesn’t stop at wishes. From greeting families at airports, hosting celebrity visits, and helping at shopping sprees, to volunteering with other local nonprofits, the Facers consistently embody generosity and compassion. They even turned down a job that required relocation to remain active in the chapter they love.
This year alone, Tommy and Krissy donated nearly 200 hours of service, brightening the lives of countless children. Through their unwavering dedication, they remind us that hope is best delivered with heart, action, and joy.
Volunteers with 5+ Years of Service to MAWNV
There are few experiences more powerful than making a wish come true.
I wish to go to Hawaii Liberty, 11 respiratory disorder
The wish experience brought hope, strength, and a sense of community to our family during this challenging time.
— wish parent to Damian
I wish to go to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa Daniel, 16 congenital heart diease
I have never seen my kid so happy, the smile on her face was priceless.
— wish parent to Liberty
I wish to have a mini F1B goldendoodle Damian, 14 leukemia
Daniel loved Aulani so very much he didn’t even want to leave to come home. Seeing Daniel’s face with nonstop smiles and joy that made it all so much more special!
— wish parent to Daniel
I wish to have a shopping spree
Joshua, 16 leukemia
We are so grateful that he was given this chance to splurge on the stuff that he really wants. We are so happy to hear him play his music again.
— wish parent to Joshua
All things are possible. It made me stronger and think [more] positive. This meant so much to him. With everything he has been through since August. Timing was perfect.
— wish parent to Athan
I wish to meet the Phoenix Suns
Athan, 15 leukemia
I wish to go to Puerto Rico
Victoria, 14 cancer
Todo fue excelente, maravilloso, fue algo increible desde el minuto que salimos de casa hasta el minuto que llegamos. La experencia fue tan agradable que tuvimos unos momentos inolvidables en familia y que lo queremos repetir algun dia. Muchas Gracias.
— wish parent to Victoria
It was amazing and emotional. It was nice to have a carefree week where Emma got to be pampered and celebrated after working so hard to overcome her disease.
— wish parent to Emma
I wish to go to Walt Disney World® Resort Emma, 11 blood disorder
I wish to go to the San Diego Zoo Jully, 5 leukemia
It helped all of us to unwind and spend time as a family in fun places and not hospitals. It was kinda like a special reward to Jully for beating cancer and having to endure all that she did.
— wish parent to Jully
It was emotional for me as a parent to see his wish be fulfilled. He has been through and gone through so much in his 13 years of life. Make-A-Wish brought some light into our lives after so many dark days and nights. They really are a godsend for any child suffering with a life-threatening or debilitating disease.
— wish parent to Maximus
I wish to have a gaming room
Maximus, 13 blood disorder
