Piscataqua Savings Bank is the proud supporter of over 100 Seacoast area nonprofits. We’re highlighting a few of the nonprofits doing incredible, critical work in our Seacoast community with our Seacoast Spotlight Series. Next up in our spotlight is Make-A-Wish New Hampshire.
Here in the Granite State, Make-A-Wish NH has grown into a trusted and heartfelt source of support for children and families facing challenges most of us can hardly imagine. For years, the organization has been bringing meaningful wishes to life for children with life-threatening illnesses, turning moments filled with uncertainty into experiences shaped by hope, joy, and strength.
While rooted in the mission of the global Make-A-Wish foundation, the New Hampshire chapter brings its own local spirit and compassion to the work, offering something that medical care alone often cannot provide: the transformative impact of a wish.
A Mission Fueled by Community
Operating out of Manchester, Make-A-Wish NH relies on the generosity and commitment of supporters across the state. Volunteers, donors, business partners, and community members all play a role in bringing wishes to life, and what truly sets this chapter apart is the genuine care behind every interaction. Whether someone is giving financially, offering their time, or helping raise awareness, the focus always remains on supporting children and families during one of the most challenging moments of their lives.
At the heart of this mission is a deep commitment to inclusion. Make-A-Wish NH proudly champions diversity through intentional inclusion, welcoming people of every race, identity, background, and lived experience. The organization understands that it is only through a rich mosaic of perspectives that it can fully serve every eligible child. This philosophy is reflected in every part of the chapter, from its volunteers and staff to its governance, partnerships, and community outreach. Their goal is not only to be accessible, but to be truly welcoming.
The chapter has also long been recognized for its thoughtful stewardship of resources. According to their 2019 fiscal year audit, 85% of every donated dollar goes directly toward granting wishes, reflecting the care and integrity behind their work. For many families, knowing their community stands behind them in such a meaningful and inclusive way can be just as impactful as the wish experience itself.
Why Wishes Matter
A wish is more than a special moment. It is a spark that can lift a child’s spirit, create anticipation, and renew a sense of possibility. Many families describe their wish experience as a turning point, something that helped their child feel more like themselves again. Whether a child wishes to meet someone they admire, travel somewhere they have dreamed about, or receive something meaningful, the experience often brings comfort, strength, and joy during a time when those feelings may feel out of reach.
The New Hampshire chapter grants dozens of wishes each year, each one tailored to the child’s personality, passions, and imagination. These wishes provide a reprieve from medical appointments and uncertainty, replacing those moments with something brighter to hold onto. The impact often extends beyond the child, creating cherished family memories that bring comfort long after the wish is over.
The Power of Local Support
New Hampshire’s strong sense of community plays a central role in making wishes possible. Throughout the state, schools, local businesses, civic groups, and partners come together in creative ways to support the organization’s mission. Multi-year commitments from donors make it possible to plan ahead and reach more children in need, while volunteers help guide families through the wish process with kindness, patience, and genuine care.
From fundraising events to awareness campaigns, the involvement of the community reflects the shared belief that every child deserves moments of joy and hope, no matter what they are facing. This collective effort allows Make-A-Wish NH to serve more families each year and continue delivering meaningful experiences that strengthen children emotionally and mentally during their medical journeys.
How to Get Involved
There are several meaningful ways to support Make-A-Wish NH. Individuals can volunteer as wish granters, office helpers, or event assistants. Groups and businesses often host fundraisers to raise awareness and financial support. Some supporters make planned gifts that help ensure wishes can be granted for generations to come.
Every contribution, whether big or small, helps bring more wishes to life. For many families, knowing that others care about their child’s happiness provides comfort and connection during a challenging time.
Make-A-Wish NH continues to show how powerful a single wish can be. By surrounding children and families with hope, joy, and community, the organization offers something deeply meaningful during moments that can feel overwhelming. With every wish granted, they remind us that kindness, imagination, and connection have the power to make an incredible difference.
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