Make-A-Wish has debuted a nationwide Holiday Wish Line, letting people across the United States call in to hear uplifting messages from children who have had their wishes granted. This initiative, part of the Wishful Giving campaign, runs from December 8 through December 31, 2025, and aims to spread joy during the holiday season while highlighting the power of wishes for kids facing critical illnesses.
What the Holiday Wish Line Offers
The Holiday Wish Line features pre-recorded messages from six wish kids, sharing personal stories, funny jokes, and words of encouragement. Callers dial a simple number to access these heartfelt recordings, which last just a few minutes each.
Scott Dishong, CEO of Make-A-Wish Colorado, noted that the voices of these young children, aged around 5 to 9, bring real joy and laughter. The line serves as a quick pick-me-up for anyone feeling the holiday stress, offering a direct glimpse into how wishes transform lives.
This year marks the return of a beloved tradition, building on past efforts to connect supporters with the mission of granting wishes to children with life-threatening conditions.
How to Join the Campaign
To listen, people can call (480) 914-9474, which spells out WISH on a phone keypad. The line is open daily through the end of the month, making it easy for families, friends, or anyone seeking inspiration to tune in.
The campaign ties into broader holiday giving trends, where nonprofits like Make-A-Wish see spikes in donations. In 2025, with economic pressures still lingering from recent global events, such initiatives remind people of simple ways to find hope.
Make-A-Wish encourages sharing experiences on social media, using tags to amplify the reach and inspire more support.
Here are some key details about participating:
- Call anytime between December 8 and 31, 2025.
- Messages include jokes like knock-knock classics and personal tales of wish journeys.
- No cost to call, and it’s available nationwide.
Impact on Children and Families
Wishes granted by Make-A-Wish improve emotional and physical well-being for kids battling serious illnesses. Studies show that these experiences help children feel stronger and more hopeful, often aiding their recovery process.
In Colorado alone, the organization grants 350 to 400 wishes each year, including many in rural areas like the Western Slope. Nationwide, Make-A-Wish has fulfilled over 550,000 wishes since its founding in 1980, with 2025 projections aiming for even more amid rising awareness.
Families report that wishes provide a break from medical routines, fostering lasting memories. One parent shared how their child’s wish to meet a favorite athlete brought renewed energy during tough treatments.
This campaign spotlights these stories, showing how donor support turns dreams into reality for thousands of families annually.
Recent data from health organizations indicates that positive experiences like wishes can reduce stress levels in young patients by up to 20 percent, based on surveys from similar programs.
Details of the Wishful Giving Campaign
The Holiday Wish Line is a core part of the larger Wishful Giving effort, which promotes donations and volunteer involvement during the holidays. Make-A-Wish aims to raise funds to grant more wishes in 2026, building on the success of previous years.
| Campaign Element | Description | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday Wish Line | Pre-recorded kid messages for callers | Dec 8-31, 2025 |
| Donation Drives | Online and in-person giving options | Ongoing through year-end |
| Social Media Shares | Encourage tagging and storytelling | Dec 2025 |
| Wish Grants | Funding for new wishes | Starts Jan 2026 |
This table outlines the main components, helping supporters see how their involvement fits into the bigger picture.
The campaign aligns with 2025 trends in charitable giving, where digital tools like call-in lines boost engagement by 15 percent compared to traditional methods, according to nonprofit reports.
Partnerships with celebrities and local businesses have amplified the reach, drawing in new donors excited about the direct connection to wish kids.
Ways to Support Make-A-Wish Beyond the Call
Beyond calling the line, people can donate through the Make-A-Wish website or volunteer locally. Options include one-time gifts, monthly pledges, or even hosting fundraising events.
In recent months, similar charity drives have seen success, like the 2025 Macy’s Believe campaign, which raised millions for wishes by encouraging letters to Santa.
Supporting Make-A-Wish not only funds wishes but also contributes to research showing improved outcomes for critically ill children. With over 15,000 wishes pending nationwide, every contribution counts.
Share this article with friends to spread the word about the Holiday Wish Line, and comment below with your favorite holiday memory or how you’ve supported causes like this. Your stories could inspire others to get involved.
