Refer A Child

The magical journey of a child's most desired wish come true begins with the referral process. Referring a child to the Foundation is simple and easy. A child may be referred to the Foundation by:

Healthcare providers, including physicians, social workers, nurses, and child-life specialists

The child's parents or legal guardian

The child

After a child is referred and qualified, our wish staff takes care of everything else. Trained Make-A-Wish volunteers will also help plan every detail of the wish.

Referrals can be made anytime after the child's diagnosis is confirmed. We can accept referrals by phone, by mailing or faxing the referral form to your local office, or online. A child's wish is granted by the region where the child resides, not where they are receiving treatment. If a referral is received for a child who lives outside our territories, the wish will be quickly referred to the appropriate chapter.

As soon as the referral is received, a medical authorization is sent to the child's primary care physician to confirm the diagnosis. Once authorization is given, the process to fulfill the child's wish begins.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation respects the privacy of the children and families it serves. All medical information is considered confidential and is not discussed with outside parties unless it is required for the wish and the child's parent(s) or guardian(s) have given their consent.

The timing of a wish is based on the medical and emotional needs of each child and his or her family. The Make-A-Wish Foundation will work closely with the family and child's medical team to determine the best time for granting the wish.

With the doctors supplying the medicine and the Make-A-Wish Foundation providing the magic, we invite you to simply enjoy the out of this world experience while creating amazing memories.