The Make-A-Wish Foundation began on April 29, 1980, when officers of the Arizona Department of Public Safety granted the wish of 7-year-old Chris, who was living with leukemia, to be a police officer for a short time. The power of that wish in his life provided the inspiration for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Today, there are 75 chapters across the US, and 27 international affiliates.

The Maine Chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation opened in 1992. Founded by Wayne and Caroline Morong, in Camden, the Maine chapter has grown to serve children in each of Maine's 16 counties. As of May, 2008, we have granted nearly 800 wishes. This year, the Foundation expects to grant the greatest wish of over 75 seriously ill Maine children, which is an average of one wish every five days.

The average cost of a wish is $5000. All wish expenses are fully covered, including travel and spending money. Our objective is to provide the child and family with a worry-free experience.

We raise funds through the generosity of individuals and businesses, and through events conducted by us and by outside community groups. The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Maine is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, and all contributions are tax deductible.

The Maine chapter has over 500 volunteers statewide, and a staff of seven. Our offices are located at 87 Elm Street, in Camden, and 477 Congress Street, 1st Floor - Suite 7W, in Portland.