Host Kim Russo explores the extraordinary power of a wish in an inspiring conversation with Kat Wawner, CEO of Wawner Strategies, and Shannon Rice, Coastal Region Development Manager at Make-A-Wish® South Carolina. This episode highlights the incredible success of Wish Night 2026, an event that brought together over 300 guests to raise a record-breaking $1.2 million.
Kat and Shannon share their personal journeys of getting involved with the foundation and discuss why the mission of granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses is so close to their hearts. The discussion provides a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics of Wish Night and its massive impact on the foundation’s annual fundraising goals.
Beyond the celebration, the conversation dives into a sobering reality: the gap between the number of children eligible for a wish and the foundation’s current capacity to serve them. Listen in to learn how the South Carolina community is coming together to bridge that gap and ensure that every eligible child gets to experience the hope and joy of a granted wish.
You can help close the gap and ensure every child receives their wish. To donate your time or resources please visit the official chapter website: Wish.org/sc
