Beyond Wishes: Honorees & the Growing Impact of Make-A-Wish

PHOENIX, AZ – November 13, 2025 – The 2025 Chris Greicius Award, honoring individuals and organizations making exceptional contributions to Make-A-Wish, highlights a growing trend: strategic philanthropic engagement redefining the children’s charity sector. This year’s honorees – Ketel Marte, Kevin Moss, Mark Rober, the Philadelphia Eagles, Post Malone, and Wheel of Fortune – represent a diverse spectrum of influence, each leveraging their platform to amplify the impact of wish-granting. While the emotional resonance of fulfilling a child’s dream remains at the heart of the organization’s mission, a closer look reveals a sophisticated ecosystem driven by impactful partnerships and evolving donor expectations.

A Legacy of Hope, a Future of Growth

Founded in 1980, Make-A-Wish has granted over 500,000 wishes worldwide. The Chris Greicius Award, named after the organization’s inspiration, recognizes those who go above and beyond. This year’s recipients demonstrate how corporate social responsibility, individual dedication, and creative engagement are propelling the organization forward.

“The impact of a wish goes far beyond a single day,” explained a representative from Make-A-Wish America. “It’s about giving children the strength to fight their battles and creating lasting memories for families. The dedication of our honorees amplifies that impact exponentially.”

From the Field to the Wishing Well: Ketel Marte and Kevin Moss

Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Ketel Marte’s connection with wish kids is deeply personal. Beyond meet-and-greets, Marte actively includes children as honorary team members, providing a sense of belonging and empowerment. This hands-on approach demonstrates the power of athletes using their influence to connect with young fans on a meaningful level.

Kevin Moss, MLB’s Director of Community Affairs, has been instrumental in solidifying the league's long-standing partnership with Make-A-Wish. His commitment stems from a personal experience – his son’s own wish – and his leadership has transformed the collaboration into a significant force for good. Moss’s work underscores a trend in corporate philanthropy: genuine personal connection driving impactful initiatives.

Innovation and Engagement: Mark Rober & *Wheel of Fortune*

Mark Rober, the YouTube personality and former NASA engineer, brings a unique approach to wish granting. His dedication goes beyond traditional meet-and-greets. He hosts immersive, hands-on experiences at CrunchLabs, tailoring activities to each child's interests, building robots, or conducting experiments. Rober's innovative approach is attracting a new generation of supporters and showcasing the power of STEM-based engagement.

Wheel of Fortune, a television staple for decades, continues to be a cherished wish destination. The program’s longevity and broad appeal create magical experiences for wish kids, offering a unique platform for hope and inspiration. The show’s continued popularity demonstrates the enduring power of traditional media in supporting charitable causes.

Beyond Celebrity: The Philadelphia Eagles & Post Malone

The Philadelphia Eagles’ commitment to Make-A-Wish is a gold standard for sports teams. For over 15 years, the team has provided unparalleled VIP experiences, going beyond simple meet-and-greets to create lasting memories for wish kids and their families. The team’s organizational commitment, involving players, coaches, and staff, exemplifies a holistic approach to philanthropy.

Post Malone, known for his music and authenticity, consistently goes above and beyond for his young fans. His interactions with wish kids are described as genuine and compassionate, demonstrating a deep personal connection. The sincerity of his involvement resonates with fans and amplifies the positive impact of his support.

The Evolving Landscape of Philanthropy

The growing success of Make-A-Wish and the dedication of its honorees reflect broader trends in the philanthropic landscape.

Increased Demand for Transparency and Impact: Donors are increasingly seeking transparency and demonstrable impact from the charities they support. Organizations like Make-A-Wish, with high ratings from Charity Navigator and the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, are well-positioned to meet these expectations.

The Rise of Experiential Philanthropy: Experiential philanthropy, focusing on creating meaningful experiences for beneficiaries, is gaining traction. Honorees like Mark Rober and the Philadelphia Eagles exemplify this trend, providing wish kids with immersive and unforgettable opportunities.

The Power of Personal Connection: Authenticity and personal connection are becoming increasingly important for both donors and beneficiaries. Honorees like Post Malone and Kevin Moss demonstrate the power of genuine connection in amplifying the impact of philanthropic initiatives.

Navigating a Competitive Funding Environment

While philanthropic giving is expected to rise in 2025, organizations are facing increased competition for funding. To maintain momentum, charities must adapt to evolving donor expectations and embrace innovative fundraising strategies. This includes leveraging digital platforms, building stronger relationships with major donors, and demonstrating clear and measurable impact.

“The philanthropic landscape is becoming increasingly complex,” noted an anonymous industry analyst. “Organizations that can effectively communicate their mission, demonstrate impact, and build trust with donors will be best positioned for success.”

The 2025 Chris Greicius Award recipients represent a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the power of compassion, dedication, and innovation in making a difference in the lives of children battling critical illnesses. As Make-A-Wish continues to grow and evolve, the commitment of these honorees will be instrumental in ensuring that every eligible child has the opportunity to experience the magic of a wish come true.