Granting wishes in Maine

To wish is to have hope. It represents a belief in a brighter future, the idea that new possibilities could be just around the corner. For children with critical illnesses, this is especially important. Research shows that wishes can help improve a child’s quality of life and produce better health outcomes, too.

That’s the inspiration behind Make-A-Wish Maine, a local chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation that creates life-changing wishes for children with serious illnesses. With the help of dedicated community volunteers, Make-A-Wish Maine serves children across the state and grants an average of one wish every five days.

“Make-A-Wish Maine creates moments and memories that put smiles on the faces of children who need it most.”

– Kacey LePage, Account Executive, Champoux Insurance

Keep children smiling

For a child with a critical illness, a wish gives them an opportunity to just enjoy being a kid again and to experience life outside of their illness. Whether it’s Maddie’s personal dance studio or Nick’s trip to Egypt, the wishes are as unique as the children themselves. And Make-A-Wish Maine is determined to make them all a reality, one by one.

This mission captivated Kacey LePage, account executive at Champoux Insurance, who said “Make-A-Wish Maine creates moments and memories that put smiles on the faces of children who need it most.” LePage got involved with Make-A-Wish Maine in 2016, and never looked back.

A supportive team

When LePage’s colleagues learned about her passion for Make-A-Wish Maine, they were eager to support her and the organization in any way they could. The agency offers LePage paid time off to volunteer for the wish program, where she assists with set up, transportation, wish reveals and cleanup. She’s also on the planning committee for the Summer Block Party, Make-A-Wish Maine’s largest fundraiser.

Champoux Insurance also donates funds throughout the year. One year, Agency President Diane Champoux even celebrated her birthday by asking friends and family to donate to Make-A-Wish Maine instead of getting her gifts.

“It really touched my heart that the agency wanted to get involved,” said LePage. “I’ve been an advocate for Make-A-Wish Maine for a long time, so to have the support of Diane and the team is incredibly moving and motivational.”

“This is about creating positive experiences for the children, but granting wishes ends up transforming the entire community.”

– Kate Vickery, president & CEO, Make-A-Wish Maine

Every wish matters

For Make-A-Wish Maine, community involvement makes all the difference. “First and foremost, this is about creating positive experiences for the children,” said Kate Vickery, president & CEO of Make-A-Wish Maine. “But granting wishes ends up transforming the entire community.”

A Make More Happen Award from Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance will help make dozens more wishes come true for children in Maine. It will also go toward monthly gifts for the children after their wish reveals, so they continue to feel how important and valued they are in their communities.

Agent Kacey LePage raises money for Make-A-Wish Maine selling event merchandise for the nonprofit.

Help Champoux Insurance win $10,000 for Make-A-Wish Maine by cheering them on with a vote!

If your agency volunteers with a 501(c)3 nonprofit, learn how you can win a Make More Happen Award here.