Chi Omega has reached a remarkable milestone, surpassing $40 million raised for the Make-A-Wish Foundation during their 24-year partnership. This achievement has enabled the organization to grant thousands of life-changing wishes to children battling critical illnesses. The announcement was made on September 25, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, where both organizations celebrated this significant achievement.
Since 2001, Chi Omega members have devoted themselves to the mission of Make-A-Wish, contributing over 1.5 million volunteer hours through various fundraising activities, events, and chapter support initiatives. With more than 275,000 living members worldwide, the impact of this partnership continues to expand, fostering a community focused on hope and healing for children and their families.
“For nearly 25 years, Chi Omega has stood with Make-A-Wish to bring hope to children with critical illnesses,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. She emphasized the ongoing demand for wishes, stating, “For every wish we grant, two more children are still waiting. Chi Omega’s unwavering commitment helps us reach more families faster so more wish kids can experience the joy and healing a wish can inspire.”
The stories behind the wishes granted highlight the profound impact of Chi Omega’s support. One such story is that of 14-year-old Luella, a heart transplant recipient. Luella’s dream of visiting a theme park in Orlando was realized through the efforts of the sorority, providing her with renewed joy and hope during her recovery. Her experience is one of many that illustrate the transformative power of a wish.
Research indicates that granting a wish can significantly enhance a child’s emotional and physical well-being. Families and healthcare professionals often report that the wish experience reduces stress, offers comfort during treatment, and instills a renewed sense of hope in children. The benefits of these wishes extend beyond the moment they are granted, creating a lasting impact on the children and their families involved.
“Our partnership with Make-A-Wish has grown by leaps and bounds since the beginning of our alliance,” said Missy Pask, Chi Omega Supreme Governing Council National Secretary. She noted the extensive contributions of Chi Omega members, stating, “Over the past 24 years, Chi Omega Sisters have helped make wishes come true in communities across the nation by raising over $40 million and donating more than 1.5 million volunteer hours.”
Chi Omega is recognized as the largest women’s fraternal organization globally, with 181 collegiate chapters, over 240 alumnae chapters, and more than 420,000 initiates. Each year, over 9,000 women join Chi Omega, attracted by its commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service. The organization continues to foster lifelong friendships and opportunities for personal growth and community involvement.
For additional information regarding the partnership between Make-A-Wish and Chi Omega, visit www.wish.org/chiomega.
About Make-A-Wish: Founded in Phoenix, Arizona, Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. As the most trusted nonprofit in the United States, Make-A-Wish operates in all 50 states. With the support of generous donors, dedicated staff, and over 20,000 volunteers, the organization aims to bring hope and joy to children and their families when they need it most. Since its inception in 1980, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 615,000 wishes globally, with over 390,000 of those in the United States and its territories. For more information, visit wish.org.
