Volunteer and Corporate Partner of the Year Awards

Andrew has been a dedicated volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada for six years, serving as a long-time board member and former chair of our Southern Alberta Chapter Advisory Board. He has been instrumental in securing major partners and sponsors for signature events like Pull for Wishes and our annual Golf for Wishes golf tournament, leveraging his deep Calgary network to expand support and elevate our mission.

Known for his energy, optimism, and teamwork, Andrew inspires staff, volunteers, and donors alike. He willingly takes on any role to ensure events succeed, from pitching sponsorships to rallying teams and strategizing event growth.

One moment that perfectly captures his impact came at Golf for Wishes when he embraced a spontaneous banquet challenge, letting guests decorate him to raise donations. This simple act of playfulness created a powerful ripple effect and donations poured in. His playful leadership sparks generosity, builds community spirit, and creates memorable experiences for wish kids and families.

“Being a part of the Make-A-Wish family has had a profound impact on not only myself, but my family as well. Being a small part of helping a child in need has been one of the most rewarding things I have been a part of.”

For the past two years, Alice has been a dedicated and passionate volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada, supporting wish children and families across British Columbia. Through her commitment to community outreach, advocacy, and volunteer engagement, she helps raise awareness and strengthen support for the mission throughout the province.

Alice brings the Make-A-Wish Canada experience to life in meaningful ways, from delivering wish boxes to families to participating in and championing fundraising initiatives such as a 60 km walk for Women for Wishes. Her approachable nature, enthusiasm, and ability to connect with others create lasting impressions, helping families feel supported while inspiring donors and fellow volunteers to get involved.

Known for her reliability and willingness to step in wherever needed, Alice leads with compassion, professionalism, and heart. Her contributions continue to make a meaningful impact, helping bring hope, strength, and joy to wish families when it is needed most.

“I have witnessed firsthand the impact these wishes have on the lives of families, which brings a deep sense of fulfillment. Thank you, Make-A-Wish Canada, for allowing me to be part of making wishes come true.”

Keith has been a dedicated volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada for eight years, serving as an active member and current vice chair of the Manitoba and Nunavut Chapter Advisory Board. Since joining in 2018, he has provided leadership and guidance on provincial initiatives while supporting a wide range of events, using his extensive network to secure sponsorships and donations. From gala tables to major gifts for Trees of Joy, Keith consistently goes the extra mile to ensure events are well attended, impactful, and successful.

His commitment extends beyond leadership. Through his company, Bond Printing, he donates and delivers signage for Make-A-Wish events and often on tight deadlines. He also actively participates in national strategic planning, contributing regional insights to help shape the organization’s future.

Keith combines quiet generosity with thoughtful action, exemplified when he made a large live-auction donation to inspire others despite preferring to work behind the scenes. His dedication, leadership, and heart have had a lasting impact on wish families and the Manitoba community.

“Make-A-Wish Canada is more than a commitment of time for me — it’s an opportunity to bring joy and hope to children facing critical health challenges. Each wish creates lasting memories for families during incredibly challenging times.

The connections I’ve built with families and fellow volunteers have created a strong sense of community and purpose, and I’ll always cherish those relationships. I’m deeply passionate about the mission and believe we can make a lasting impact together.”

Marie has been a dedicated volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada in New Brunswick for 27 years. Since joining in 1999, she has generously given her time, energy, and heart to support countless events and help grant numerous wishes, leaving a lasting impact on families and communities across the province.

Each year, Marie leads a fundraising event in Moncton, inspiring community partners and stakeholders to engage with and support the mission. Her commitment goes far beyond event planning; she consistently steps in wherever needed, ensuring that every wish experience is memorable and meaningful.

In the past three years alone, Marie has helped grant 20 wishes, and her enthusiasm and reliability make her a trusted and invaluable member of the New Brunswick volunteer community. Her dedication, generosity, and steadfast support exemplify the spirit of Make-A-Wish.

“Volunteering for Make-A-Wish Canada lets me see the joy on our kids’ and families’ faces. It means the world to me to be able to do that for them, knowing all they have been through. No matter how small or large a wish is, I truly see the difference we are making, and that’s why I will continue to help create the magic of a wish. For me, each wish leaves my heart feeling full.”

Dr. Desmond Whalen has been a dedicated volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada in Newfoundland and Labrador since 2014. Encouraged by a close friend and former chair of the Chapter Advisory Board (CAB), he quickly became a passionate advocate for the mission, supporting fundraising initiatives, participating in wish deliveries, and championing opportunities to raise awareness across the province. He currently serves as vice chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador CAB, providing leadership and guidance to support the organization’s continued growth.

In 2022, Dr. Whalen founded the Doctors for Wishes program, which has since raised more than $50,000 to help grant life-changing wishes. His belief in the power of a wish is deeply personal, rooted in the joy he has witnessed firsthand when a child’s wish comes to life.

A staff emergency and family physician, Dr. Whalen brings the same compassion and commitment to his volunteer work as he does to his profession. His leadership, generosity, and dedication continue to have a meaningful impact on wish families and the broader community.

“The joy that comes from a wish is a powerful medicine. Watching a wish kids face light up as their dream comes to life is the driving force behind my volunteer work.”

Stephanie has been a dedicated volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada in Nova Scotia since 2005. Inspired after witnessing the joy a wish brought to a close family friend, she quickly became committed to bringing that same happiness to other families facing critical illness.

Her enthusiasm and energy are evident in everything she does. Stephanie hosts four to five well-attended crafting fundraisers each year and inspires others to fundraise alongside her. Through these efforts, she has raised over $25,000 to help grant life-changing wishes.

Beyond fundraising, Stephanie contributes to wish reveals, prepares birthday cards, and attends events whenever possible. She even showed up in full elf gear to spread holiday cheer at Mic Mac Mall this past December. Her commitment, creativity, and willingness to go the extra mile make her a valued and trusted member of the Nova Scotia volunteer community.

“Make-A-Wish Canada is all about helping children. Each event I attend for wish kids warms my heart; it makes me feel like I am making a meaningful difference.”

Since joining Make-A-Wish Canada in November 2024, Lata has made an extraordinary impact as a volunteer wish granter in Ontario. What began as an enthusiastic start has quickly grown into a remarkable level of contribution, with Lata supporting more than 100 wishes in a short period of time.

Her dedication is matched by her positivity and collaborative spirit. Lata is known for her upbeat approach to wish granting and her ability to connect meaningfully with wish children, families, and fellow volunteers. She consistently steps forward to support as many wishes as possible, ensuring more families can experience the joy and hope a wish brings.

A trusted and valued member of the volunteer community, Lata is often recognized for her willingness to help others, her reliability, and her ability to make every wish experience feel special. Her energy, compassion, and commitment continue to have a profound impact on wish families across Ontario.

“Volunteering with Make-A-Wish Canada is an incredibly rewarding experience and one that I am truly grateful for. Every child and family that I meet reminds me of the beauty, resilience, and graciousness that surrounds us. I feel honoured to be able to bring a well-deserved smile to the face of a child going through a difficult journey — it is truly humbling.”

Wanda, Cecilia, and Jeanette have been dedicated volunteers with Make-A-Wish Canada for more than 30 years, joining the West Prince Committee in 1995. Together, they have played a vital role in building strong community support across Prince Edward Island.

Through their shared leadership, the committee has organized and supported a range of fundraising initiatives, including the Wishmaker Walk for Wishes, the St. Felix Golf Tournament, and local events. With strong support from their community, these efforts have raised thousands of dollars to help grant life-changing wishes for children and families across the island.

Known for their compassion and care, they work as a team to help create meaningful and personalized wish experiences, ensuring each child’s wish brings joy, hope, and lasting memories. Their longstanding dedication continues to make a meaningful impact on their community, and the families Make-A-Wish serves.

“It has never been about just one of us — we are a team. We support Make-A-Wish Canada because it gives children and their families a chance to step away from hospitals, doctors, and treatments, and instead experience joy, laughter, and lasting memories they will cherish for a lifetime.”

Jessica has been volunteering with Make-A-Wish Canada for over three years. Despite her busy schedule as part-owner of a renowned Montreal restaurant, she consistently finds time to support wish kids and staff. She enjoys coming into the office to write get-well notes and birthday messages for wish kids, spending hours crafting personal notes to brighten their day.

Jessica also volunteers every year at our annual gift-wrapping event and last year she mobilized her restaurant staff, including her business partner, Chef Chuck Hughes, to support our efforts. She has also been instrumental in culinary wish reveals, adding extra magic to each experience. Her generosity, enthusiasm, and dedication make her a cherished member of the Make-A-Wish volunteer community.

With over 24 years in the financial industry, Kimberly brings expertise and leadership to her volunteer work with Make-A-Wish Canada, where she has been actively involved for seven years. As a member and former chair of the Saskatchewan Chapter Advisory Board, serving two consecutive terms, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening the organization’s impact across the province.

Kimberly was instrumental in launching the Regina Golf for Wishes event in 2023 and guiding its growth through 2025, building strong relationships with sponsors and participants along the way. As a wish parent, she brings a personal perspective to her volunteerism, helping open doors and inspire others across Saskatchewan.

“Sick children and their families deserve a reason to smile. Make-A-Wish Canada brightens the darkest days. It’s rewarding (and a lot of fun!) to be part of something so powerful.”

Paris Jewellers has been a steadfast partner of Make-A-Wish Canada since 2019, contributing over $200,000 through their holiday campaigns, signature jewellery collections, staff gifts, and sponsorships. Their support extends beyond financial contributions — they have provided products for auctions and raffles across Western Canada and designed the exclusive jewellery recognition pieces for Women for Wishes since 2023.

Paris Jewellers demonstrates a remarkable commitment to bringing joy, hope, and strength to children with critical illnesses, with Make-A-Wish Canada as their largest charitable partner. Their generosity and dedication help fund life-changing wishes, while their in-kind support strengthens events and campaigns that engage donors, volunteers, and communities across the country.

Through sustained partnership, meaningful contributions, and unwavering dedication, Paris Jewellers exemplifies what it means to be a true champion of wishes.

“As a family that immigrated from Vietnam to Canada, we started in a small community, and that has shaped everything about who we are. Supporting Make-A-Wish Canada is our way of giving back to the communities we are so honoured to be part of. We choose to support Make-A-Wish because of the incredible impact they create for families when they need it most.”

Tom and Debra have set an extraordinary example of leadership and community impact through their co-chairing of Okanagan for Wishes. In under nine months, they raised over $250,000 — more than doubling their original goal — directly supporting 25 children with critical illnesses to experience life-changing wishes.

From the outset, they led every aspect of the event from planning sessions and volunteer coordination to donor engagement and even hosting a donor appreciation gathering in their home that featured a surprise wish reveal.

Partnered with 16 vendors, their hands-on approach inspired 27 volunteers of all ages and introduced 26 new donors to the mission of Make-A-Wish. By mentoring volunteers and actively involving youth in event logistics, they created an inclusive environment that strengthened community connections and fostered meaningful engagement.

Beyond the numbers, Tom and Debra have cultivated a lasting culture of generosity, compassion, and philanthropy. Their personal investment, leadership, and passion have strengthened Make-A-Wish in the Okanagan and beyond setting a foundation that will continue to bring hope, strength, and life-changing experiences to children and families for years to come.

“Thanks to the most brilliant and wonderful Christie Buono, we have had the amazing opportunity to be introduced to Make-A-Wish Canada. Without her support, we would never have been able to accomplish what we did last summer.

We are beyond grateful to Christie and her team for allowing us the privilege to work with them, and, in a small way, provide support to the many deserving children and youth in the Make-A-Wish program.”

Randy has been a dedicated volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada in Manitoba since 2000, serving as a long-time member and former chair of the province’s Chapter Advisory Board, completing his term in 2024. Throughout his tenure, he has provided steady leadership during times of significant change.

He has played a key role in advancing major initiatives, including chairing the inaugural Trees of Joy event in Winnipeg and contributing to gala planning over many years. Randy has also been a strong ambassador for the organization, representing Make-A-Wish at high-profile events and actively engaging his network to secure sponsorships and fundraising support.

His leadership, commitment, and lasting impact have helped strengthen the foundation in the Manitoba region and expand its reach within the community.

“Make‑A‑Wish shows us what’s possible when people come together to create hope. Volunteering is my way of helping bring joy and strength to children and families when they need it most.”

NB Southern Railway has demonstrated exceptional commitment to Make-A-Wish Canada as the presenting partner of the Believe in Wishes Train Ride, a beloved New Brunswick holiday tradition. The annual event generally raises $100,000 to help grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Through their partnership, NB Southern Railway has helped bring this experience to life, creating a festive and memorable event for families filled with laughter, carolling, and holiday magic. From golden tickets to special on-board moments, the event brings the community together in support of a shared cause.

NB Southern Railway’s ongoing support reflects a genuine dedication to giving back. Their involvement continues to strengthen the impact Make-A-Wish has in New Brunswick, helping create hope, strength, and lasting memories for children and families.

“At NB Southern Railway, giving back to the communities we serve is part of who we are. Partnering with Make-A-Wish Canada allows our team to help create moments of joy and hope for children and families when they need it most. The Believe in Wishes Train Ride is a special reminder of what can happen when a community comes together for a truly meaningful cause.”

– Brad Peters, General Manager, NBM Railways

Michelle and Makenzie Puddicombe have demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and community impact through the creation and growth of the PINK Invitational Volleyball Tournament — an annual event held in memory of Makenzie’s twin sister, Makayla, a wish alumna whose love of volleyball continues to inspire all who knew her.

What began as a heartfelt tribute has evolved into a powerful, volunteer-driven initiative that has raised more than $60,000 in support of Make-A-Wish Canada. The tournament brings together teams from across the province, uniting communities in a shared mission of hope and generosity. They look forward to seeing the sea of PINK flood the gyms each year.

At the heart of this success is a dedicated and passionate committee whose leadership has been instrumental in transforming vision into impact. The committee comprised of, Michelle, Makenzie, Matthew Lawrence, and Halie Tibbo, demonstrate outstanding commitment, organization, and care in every aspect of the event’s execution. Their collaborative approach and unwavering dedication ensure the tournament not only runs seamlessly but continues to grow in reach and significance each year.

However, it’s the volunteers that make this tournament truly special. Exceptional returning volunteer leaders, Norine Taylor, Krista Ghaney, Suella Wall, and Kelsey Smith support the event through their ongoing contributions, strengthening its foundation and exemplifying the spirit of community service that defines the tournament.

Together, this remarkable team has created more than a tournament — they have built a legacy. Their work honours Makayla’s memory in a deeply meaningful way while directly supporting children facing critical illnesses. Through their leadership, they have inspired a community, fostered connection, and brought hope to countless wish kids.

“Supporting Make-A-Wish Canada means the world to us. When we needed it most, Makayla’s wish took away the stress and hospital visits, replacing them with fun and smiles — even if only for a short time.”

Tammy became involved with Make-A-Wish Canada in Nova Scotia through the Women for Wishes campaign in 2023, inspired by the mission to help grant life-changing wishes. A passionate community leader, she co-founded the annual Women Fore Wishes golf tournament with Nancy Regan, one of 10 women on the founding committee who plays an integral role in the event’s success.

Through Tammy’s leadership, the event has become a standout success, selling out each year and raising more than $130,000 to date. Her ability to mobilize her community, combined with her creativity and attention to detail, has made a meaningful impact on the province’s fundraising efforts.

In 2025, Tammy joined the Nova Scotia Chapter Advisory Board, where she continues to lead with energy, generosity, and a deep commitment to making wishes possible.

“Volunteering with Make-A-Wish Canada is an integral part of who I am. The children we support and encourage in their healing journeys is often more important than the end result. We help in building strength and courage to allow them to continue to thrive.

If I can help even one child beat their odds or simply give a little bit of hope, then this is how I want to be remembered. I will continue to be a volunteer with Make-A-Wish Canada, forever!”

Shaun and Margot Usmar have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, passion, and leadership in support of Make-A-Wish Canada for over 15 years. Most notably, they have served as co-chairs of Trees of Joy since its inception in 2016. What began as a small initiative with just seven sponsored trees has grown under their leadership into a signature event featuring 95 sponsored trees in Toronto in 2025, supporting 95 wish families. Shaun and Margot also personally sponsor a tree each year, leading by example and demonstrating their deep commitment to the mission.

Over the past decade, Trees of Joy Toronto has helped grant more than 470 wishes and raised over $4.7 million. What started as a local initiative has since expanded to 13 cities across Canada, as well as internationally to the United States, China, Australia, and New Zealand, extending its reach to children and families around the world.

Shaun and Margot’s impact extends beyond Trees of Joy. Margot continues to give her time generously as a volunteer at Golf for Wishes, while Shaun serves as chair of the Make-A-Wish Canada Board of Directors, supporting the organization’s continued growth and ability to deliver on its mission.

Through genuine care, personal outreach, and thoughtful attention to detail, Shaun and Margot create meaningful connections with wish families, volunteers, and partners alike, ensuring every experience is filled with joy, hope, and strength.

“Fourteen years ago, my husband and I showed up not knowing how much this would change us. We just wanted to help — what we didn’t expect was how much we’d receive in return. The joy, the tears, the moments that stay with you forever. Make-A-Wish Canada didn’t just give us a cause, it gave us a purpose we share together and with our children. It’s taught us that hope is the most powerful thing you can give another person. Every wish granted reminds us why we started, and every year we fall more in love with this mission and the incredible families behind it. That’s why we keep showing up.”

For nearly 40 years, the Parkdale Sherwood Lions Club has been a dedicated supporter of Make-A-Wish Canada in Prince Edward Island. Their journey began in 1987 when they granted the first ever wish in PEI, and they have continued to bring hope and joy to children and families since then.

Year after year, the Parkdale Sherwood Lions Club shows up in meaningful ways — proudly supporting a wish annually and volunteering at the PEI International Shellfish Festival, where their commitment to community shines. For the past three years, they have also sponsored Trees of Joy, helping bring strength to families during the holiday season.

Driven by a deep belief in giving back, their long-standing dedication creates lasting impact, not only through wishes granted, but through bringing people together, supporting families, and inspiring generosity across Prince Edward Island.

“Having the honour of being a part of the first wish granted in PEI is certainly a proud moment in our history as is our 39 years of continuous support to Make-A-Wish Canada.

Participation in Trees of Joy over the last 3 years has offered a great opportunity for our membership to interact with wish children and their families in a social setting that really provides a great insight into the power of the wishes granted and the impact that they have experienced as a result of the experience.

Thank you for providing our club with the opportunity to serve our community in a manner that really makes a difference.”

Anthony has been a dedicated volunteer and active fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Canada since 2015, turning a personal promise into lasting impact. After losing his mother to cancer, he committed to making a difference in the lives of children with critical illness — a promise he continues to honour each year.

Through grassroots efforts including annual bowling events, toy drives, and community fundraisers, Anthony has raised more than $150,000 in support of wish granting. His ability to engage his community and inspire ongoing support has been central to his success.

Known for his kindness and unwavering dedication, Anthony stays connected to the mission in meaningful ways, building and maintaining relationships that help make wishes possible year after year.

“Volunteering with Make-A-Wish Canada means giving families hope and joy during their hardest moments…something I couldn’t do for my own mom, but now strive to do in her honour.”

Marjorie has been a part of Make-A-Wish Canada since 2018 and has served as chair of the Saskatoon Golf for Wishes committee for the past three years.

As a wish mom, she openly shares her family’s wish journey as a guest speaker at Women for Wishes and other events. Her employer, SaskTel, is a consistent supporter of the Golf for Wishes tournament, and her family, friends, and colleagues regularly volunteer alongside her each year. No matter how busy life gets, Marjorie steps up with enthusiasm and passion for our mission, helping raise funds to grant wishes.

Beyond Make-A-Wish, Marjorie contributes to numerous community causes and organizations such as Camp Easter Seal, SaskAbilities, and the Special Olympics Saskatchewan. Her quiet, selfless dedication makes her a true pillar in her community.

“Make‑A‑Wish Canada will forever hold a special place in my heart. Volunteering allows me to give back to an organization that creates powerful, life‑changing moments for children facing a critical illness and their families. I have seen firsthand, the impact of the power of a wish.”