About Us
Since 1984, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Mississippi has given hope, strength and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions. From our humble beginnings with one Gulfport girl’s wish to go to Walt Disney World® Resorts, we’ve evolved into an organization that grants over 85 wishes per year across the 64 southernmost counties of Mississippi.
Our Mission
Our mission is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. Fulfilling a child’s wish provides a joyful and meaningful experience that benefits both the child and the family.
The First Wish
The Make-A-Wish Foundation traces its beginning to one boy’s wish. In 1980, 7-year-old Christopher James Greicius was being treated for leukemia. Every day, he dreamed of becoming a police officer.Thanks to the generosity of some caring individuals, Chris was sworn in as the first honorary DPS patrolman in state history. Thus, the Chris Greicius Make-A-Wish® Memorial – which later became known as the Make-A-Wish Foundation – was born.
Fast Facts
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Mississippi was founded in 1984.In Mississippi we currently have 200+ volunteers and welcome other interested individuals.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Mississippi has granted more than 1,000 wishes. Nationally, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted nearly 165,000 wishes since 2008.
Wish referrals are coming in faster than the funds needed to support them.
Currently we are privileged to have the sponsorship the Chi Omegas at Mississippi State University, University of Southern Mississippi, and Millsaps College who make it a continual goal to raise money for Make-A-Wish Mississippi!
