Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Ball – March 2025
Some of you may not know this but the world-renowned Make-A-Wish Foundation began right here in Arizona when Chris Greicius, with the help of the community, was granted his wish to be a police officer in 1980. His mother, Linda Pauling, describes that experience for Chris, who was battling leukemia, as one that gave him and their family such great hope in such a dark time. That day changed everything for Linda, who went on to help found the Make-A-Wish Foundation which has since grown to having local chapters across the country and internationally that have granted wishes to hundreds of thousands of children battling critical illnesses.
Our local chapter, Make-A-Wish Arizona, has been a cornerstone of the community for the past 45 years, and Bob and I were overjoyed to celebrate this wonderful milestone with family, friends, and most importantly brave Wish Kids at Wish Ball 2025: Art of Wishes. True to the night’s theme, the room was gorgeous, with bursts of color from floor to ceiling, sculptural centerpieces, and rainbow florals that stunned. Bob and I had the pleasure to meet Wish Kids from all walks of life whose wishes gave them that same boost of hope and strength to face their illnesses that Chris Greicius got from his so many years ago.
We were also so honored by Make-A-Wish Arizona with the Lifetime Impact Award at the event. It is incredibly humbling to hear how Make-A-Wish believes our personal efforts and philanthropic contributions through The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation have impacted the Arizona chapter and Wish Kids over the years. I would be remiss if I did not express my deepest gratitude for how Make-A-Wish Arizona has impacted me as a person, businesswoman, and philanthropist over the past 12+ years. Not only have I met many inspiring Wish Kids whose stories have taught me to live life to the fullest and enjoy its simple beauties, but it was also at Make-A-Wish where I held my first-ever Board of Directors position, teaching me invaluable lessons in leadership, critical thinking, and strategic growth of a nonprofit. Having had such a close association with the organization, it was a very proud moment when, in 2015, I witnessed the opening of The Parsons Wish House. These are just a few memories of so many over the years for which I have Make-A-Wish Arizona to thank.
Knowing that Bob and I have had a part in making wishes a reality for thousands of critically ill children over the years makes me a bit emotional. It has been our utmost pleasure to do so, which is why this year Bob and I announced that we would match all Fund-A-Wish donations made during the event so that Make-A-Wish Arizona can continue in its mission to reach all eligible children in Arizona.
To Wish Kids near and far – thank you for your bravery and for teaching me about a life well lived.
With love,
