Bidding a Bittersweet Farewell

Dear Make-A-Wish friends, 

I am writing you a special message today that is truly bittersweet. It is our gift, our privilege, to come together to collectively “Bring and Receive Joy” via our extraordinary Make-A-Wish mission. You, our wish kids, families, volunteers and community supporters, each individually and collaboratively connected with our mission to grant wishes and enrich the human experience, are heroes to me.   I adore the work we accomplish across the state of Michigan creating the love and magic of children’s wishes come true just when those wishes are needed most.

People who choose to become involved with Make-A-Wish as wish granting volunteers, statewide Board directors, volunteer organizers of fund raising events, dedicated staff members,donors, WAM cyclists, Walk for Wishes participants, on and on…what an amazing, generous and tireless wish community you are! We have become a true community – actually a family – a family of people who care deeply for children and family members in need of joy – whether we actually KNOW our “extended” Make-A-Wish family members or not! I am tremendously grateful for the amazing opportunities my 13 years of service as Make-A-Wish of Michigan’s Fairy Godmother has allowed. Serving our beautiful mission, the privilege of making heartfelt wishes come true, has made me a better person and presented a multitude of opportunities to learn what is really important in life.

I had not anticipated leaving my Make-A-Wish position, yet here I am. I have accepted a unique opportunity to serve as President and CEO of a brand new organization (so new, in fact, that we will be sharing our “name” in early February!). This new entity will lead a collaboration of Michigan organizations and institutions providing a connection to education, advocacy and services for children and families impacted by Autism and related disorders. In the course of considering this opportunity, I learned there are more than 14,000 Michigan children with Autism. My personal vision has always included working as an advocate for children and certainly my position with Make-A-Wish has reflected that vision.

Make-A-Wish is a strong, viable, joyful organization and I am very proud of the role I have played in our development.  Make-A-Wish will be fine, with new perspectives and opportunities on the horizon. So now I will my energies to another group of children in need as I  begin my new role February 1.   Please know this decision involved a great deal of consideration on the part of myself, my husband, Dan, and our children. We LOVE Make-A-Wish and you will forever be in our hearts!  I am confident our outstanding Board, staff and volunteers will continue to serve the Make-A-Wish mission with generosity and passion, bringing hope, strength and joy to Michigan wish kids and families.       I wish you and yours much love and send my deepest appreciation to you for allowing me the privilege of this position!  

Fondly,
Susan