How did the idea for Harvesting Wishes come about?
Agriculture runs deep in America. From ag manufacturing to ag advocacy to farming and ranching, agriculture is the lifeblood of many of our communities. When Make-A-Wish Iowa was researching new ways to connect with our communities to help our mission to bring hope to critically ill children, we immediately thought of agriculture. The agriculture community is strong; they are a network of like-minded individuals who care for the people in their communities just as they care for the land they tend. And so, the idea for Harvesting Wishes was born.
Who can participate in the program?
Anyone! The program is designed so that anyone who wants to get involved in Harvesting Wishes can easily do so. While the Gifts of Grain donation is specific to farmers, others in the ag community can get involved through financial or supply donations or by volunteering.
How does Gifts of Grain work?
Gifts of Grain is simple. When you deliver grain to the elevator and they hand you a slip to complete who should be paid for the grain, you simply fill in “Make-A-Wish Harvesting Wishes.” From there, you should receive a tax-deductible receipt at the elevator. We even have a form you can complete in advance to your trip to the elevator. This process is similar to donating stock.
What is Stine Seed Company’s involvement with the program?
Stine is the premier sponsor of Harvesting Wishes. With operations across the country and a growing global footprint, Stine has the potential to elevate Harvesting Wishes to a new level. Their partnership is critical in helping the program reach new audiences in the agriculture industry from coast to coast.
Will you eventually invite other sponsors to the program?
As the Harvesting Wishes program grows, we do envision the opportunity for other participants to join in the work of granting wishes for critically ill children. If your organization or business would like to sponsor a wish for $15,000, please contact Carol Tebockhorst, Director of Development, at 515.334.2636 ext 4041 or carolt@iowa.wish.org.
How can I participate?
From monetary and in-kind donations to Gifts of Grain and volunteerism, there are many ways you can actively participate in Harvesting Wishes. Businesses, organizations and individuals can also conduct fundraising campaigns or coordinate events for the program, and future sponsorship opportunities may be available down the road. To get involved, contact us today.
Is my financial contribution tax deductible?
Yes. We are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. As such, financial contributions may be deductible for federal income tax purposes. Please consult with your financial adviser to determine the extent of tax deductibility. Since fiscal year 2014, Make-A-Wish’s financial statements are audited by CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP). View the Foundation's most recent annual report with accompanying financial statements.
Are there age restrictions for the children who are recipients of wishes?
Yes. Wish recipients are eligible for a wish if they’ve reached the age of 2 ½ and are under the age of 18 at the time of referral.
Does a child's condition have to be terminal to qualify for a wish?
No. Many of the children who qualify for a wish go on to lead healthy lives. We grant the wishes of medically eligible children (i.e., those diagnosed with critical illnesses — a progressive, degenerative or malignant condition that has placed the child's life in jeopardy).
How do I become a volunteer?
To provide the wish children and families with the best experience possible, we require all potential volunteers to go through an assessment before becoming an active volunteer.
Volunteer paperwork takes about two weeks to process and approve. After your paperwork is processed, you will be contacted with detailed instructions as it relates to the next steps based on the opportunities you selected. Please note: volunteer needs may vary by chapter needs.
Why do I need a background check to volunteer?
Due to the nature of our work, select volunteer positions must successfully complete a criminal background check every three years. We do not employ or utilize as a volunteer any individual who has been convicted of a crime that (a) victimizes children, (b) is sexual in nature, or (c) involves violence, fraud or significant theft. Please contact us with any questions related to past convictions and/or our background check screening process.
Who do I contact with questions about my volunteer application?
Our team is happy to answer any questions or address any concerns that you may have.
- Volunteer Engagement Coordinator: Kacie Ballard, (515) 334-2636 or kballard@iowa.wish.org
- Make-A-Wish: (515) 334-2636 or wish.org
Don't see the question or answer you are looking for? Contact us or view additional FAQs on our website.