BC & Yukon Region

Over the past two years, Branko has made an incredible impact on the Make-A-Wish Canada mission through his leadership, community outreach, and fundraising efforts.

As Chair of the BC & Yukon Chapter Advisory Board (CAB), Branko has shown unwavering commitment, successfully onboarding 11 new CAB members and supporting national initiatives. He played a key role as Golf for Wishes CAB Champion—securing sponsors, recruiting golfers, and helping elevate the event’s success. He also contributes meaningfully through the Trees of Joy Committee and is hands-on in wish delivery, connecting directly with wish families.

Branko’s passion, reliability, and leadership continue to inspire those around him. His tireless efforts at both the chapter and national level make him a truly deserving recipient of the Provincial Volunteer of the Year Award.

“Winning the Make-A-Wish Provincial Volunteer of the Year award is a heartfelt honour. It represents the power of hope, the joy of giving, and the privilege of making a difference in children’s lives.”

Since joining just over a year ago, Jennifer has gone above and beyond in her first year as a volunteer. She’s taken on numerous wishes, often stepping in last minute to ensure no child is left without support. With a strong grasp of our mission and a natural ability to represent Make-A-Wish Canada, Jen has also mentored new volunteers and supported key events like Vancouver’s Wishes on the Roof—earning glowing feedback from our Fund Development team.

One of Jen’s standout contributions is developing a partnership with a local bakery to donate custom cakes, cupcakes, and balloons for wish boosts. Based on each child’s interests, Jen coordinates with the bakery to create personalized celebrations—adding meaningful touches without increasing costs. Her creativity and initiative have elevated the wish experience for countless families.

Jen’s positivity, reliability, and generous spirit have made a huge impact in just one year. She’s a valued member of the team, and we’re excited for all she’ll continue to bring to Make-A-Wish Canada.

“What a lovely and unexpected honour it is to receive this award! Getting the chance to be part of something as meaningful as Make-A-Wish has been such an inspiration. I am so grateful to be involved in an organization that brings hope and joy to these brave kids. Thank you to all the families for welcoming me into their wish experience and thank you to Make-A-Wish for trusting me to help carry out these special missions.”

The Slo Pitch for Kids (SPFK) Committee is a passionate group of volunteers and organizers based in Vancouver, BC, dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children facing critical illnesses. Each year, they work tirelessly to plan the annual SPFK softball tournament, uniting local businesses, community members, and sports enthusiasts for a fun and competitive event in support of Make-A-Wish Canada.

Driven by their love of both the game and the cause, the SPFK Committee has raised over $1.5 million for the Make-A-Wish Canada, BC & Yukon Chapter — helping grant life-changing wishes for children and families across the region.

Their incredible commitment has made SPFK a beloved staple in Vancouver’s charitable community, where every pitch helps create hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for wish kids and their families.

“The Slo Pitch for Kids team is humbled to receive Make-A-Wish Canada’s Community Impact Award for the BC & Yukon chapter. We are a group of people who have found a greater purpose in celebrating the sport that we all love while also being able to support such an amazing cause. The impact that our efforts have had on children facing critical illness has gone far beyond what we ever imagined and are grateful to be a part of the Make-A-Wish community. Thank you for the recognition, but please know that we all do this for the kids.”