The W.I.S.H. Society Young Professionals (WSYP) is a dynamic group of leaders aged 24-39 who are passionate about making a difference. Through WSYP, you’ll help grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, all while developing your leadership potential and connecting with like-minded professionals in your community. As part of this elite group, you’ll have the chance to lead fundraising efforts, raise awareness, and participate in exclusive networking and social events.

Joining is easy! Simply fill out the interest form on this page, and we’ll send you more details about the program, including how to apply. Once your application is accepted, you'll become an official member of WSYP and can start participating in events and fundraising initiatives.

• Raise or contribute a minimum of $1,000 annually (through donations, sponsorships, or fundraising)

• Pay annual dues of $50 (included in the $1,000 minimum)

• Attend WSYP events and actively participate in our initiatives

• Complete Make-A-Wish onboarding and training to better understand our mission and impact

WSYP plays a key role in raising funds and awareness to support wish granting for children with critical illnesses. Through fundraising challenges, outreach efforts, and events, WSYP members contribute directly to making wishes come true and providing hope to families in need.

We understand that professionals have busy schedules, so we offer flexible ways to engage. The level of involvement is up to you, but we encourage all members to actively participate in our key fundraising events, networking opportunities, and social gatherings. Most members attend a handful of events per year, in addition to personal fundraising efforts.

WSYP hosts a variety of exclusive events for members, including fundraising challenges, networking mixers, and social gatherings. You’ll also have access to events like Wine to Wishes and the annual Wish Ball. Our 48-Hour Fundraising Challenge is a particularly exciting event where members work together to raise $25,000 for local wishes.

Absolutely! WSYP is a supportive community, and many members join without prior fundraising experience. We provide training, resources, and guidance to help you succeed, whether you’re leading a fundraising initiative or participating in events. Plus, you’ll be part of a team, so you’ll never have to fundraise alone.

As a member of WSYP, you’ll have the chance to:

• Build leadership skills and gain valuable experience in nonprofit fundraising and outreach

• Network with other professionals and business leaders in your community

• Attend exclusive social and networking events

• Make a direct impact by helping to grant wishes for children with critical illnesses

• Receive recognition in Make-A-Wish reports and at events like the Wish Ball

Once you submit your information, a representative from Make-A-Wish Central & Western NC will reach out to you with more details on the WSYP program, including the next steps for applying and getting involved. You’ll also have the opportunity to attend an upcoming info session where you can learn more about our mission and meet current members.

WSYP offers you the chance to grow personally and professionally. You’ll have opportunities to develop leadership skills, build connections with other professionals, and enhance your resume by working on meaningful fundraising and community outreach initiatives. Many of our members say that WSYP helps them grow as leaders while also giving back to a cause they care about.