Sarah Ford | June 23, 2014

The World Cup Helps Wish Kids Open New Chapters in Their Lives

The sport goes by many names. In some countries, it’s soccer. In others, it’s some variation on “football.” In Italy, they call it il calcio – literally, “the kicking.” Some just call it “The Beautiful Game.” Whatever its name in your part of the world, though, it’s beyond question that the World Cup is sport’s greatest celebration.

It is truly a global event, from Sacramento to Sarajevo to Sydney. Players put aside their club rivalries for a once-every-four-years chance at bringing the FIFA World Cup Trophy to their home country.

More than 50 kids with life-threatening medical conditions wish to go to the World Cup in Brazil. They share the same vision for life at its best – they are perfect reflections of the soccer universe that will turn its eyes to Brazil this summer. They are different in so many respects, but unite in a way that transcends any other boundary.

Some have waited years for this opportunity, and the journeys that led them to their wish experiences are as varied and diverse as the players who will represent their countries.

During the tournament, Make-A-Wish will share the stories of some of the kids who wished to go to the World Cup. You’ll get a chance to see the spectacle through their eyes.

>> Continue Reading

Get Resources and Insights Straight To Your Inbox

Explore More Articles

Congratulations to Our Members Recognized Among America’s Favorite Charities

October 15, 2025

Each year, The Chronicle of Philanthropy releases its list of America’s Favorite Charities—the 100 nonprofits that raise the most from individual donors, foundations, and corporate…

Read Article

The Future of Corporate Giving: How Nonprofits Can Prepare

October 8, 2025

Corporate giving is a valuable part of the nonprofit funding ecosystem. Companies large and small have incorporated philanthropic efforts into their overall business plans, from…

Read Article

Join Us at the Workplace Fundraising & Volunteering Summit!

October 8, 2025

We’re excited to announce that America’s Charities President, Jim Starr, and Board Member, Fernando Lorence of JP Morgan Chase, will be speaking at the Workplace…

Read Article

Get Resources and Insights Straight To Your Inbox

Receive our monthly/bi-monthly newsletter filled with information about causes, nonprofit impact, and topics important for corporate social responsibility and employee engagement professionals, including disaster response, workplace giving, matching gifts, employee assistance funds, volunteering, scholarship award program management, grantmaking, and other philanthropic initiatives.

newsletter-mock