Where Wishes Become Moments of Hope

A Special Wish Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing joy and hope to children facing life-threatening illnesses in Southwest Ohio. We believe that every child deserves a moment that is purely theirs. A moment filled with excitement, wonder, and the warmth of a community rallying around them.


We make that happen through the power of wishes.

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A Mission Rooted in Local Care

Bringing Hope to Children and Families in Southwest Ohio

When a child is facing a life-threatening illness, families often feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. A Special Wish Foundation of SW Ohio helps create joyful, memorable wish experiences for children from birth through age 20 across the region. Since 1983, ASW-SWO has worked alongside families, volunteers, and healthcare professionals to bring meaningful moments of happiness during difficult times. For more than 40 years, our mission has continued to grow through the support of the community.

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A Special Wish in the Community

Over 40 Years of Local Wishes Coming True

For more than four decades, A Special Wish Foundation has been a trusted part of Southwest Ohio — standing alongside children facing life-threatening illnesses and the families who love them.


Based in Dayton, we serve families throughout the region in partnership with both Dayton Children's Hospital and Cincinnati Children's Hospital. These relationships help us reach the children who need encouragement, joy, and something to look forward to most.



None of it happens without our community. Donors, volunteers, and local partners make every wish possible — and in doing so, they strengthen the circle of care around every family we serve.

Choose Your Way to Help Local Wishes

Support Children Through Giving, Events, or Volunteering

Every wish granted begins with community support. Whether you donate, volunteer at a fundraiser, or attend a local event, your involvement helps bring hope to children across Southwest Ohio.

Your gift helps fund wishes and experiences for children facing life-threatening illnesses in our community.

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Donate to a Local Wish

Volunteer at Events

Many of our fundraising events rely on volunteers who help organize, welcome guests, and support operations.

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Fundraise or Sponsor

Businesses, schools, and community groups can sponsor wishes or host fundraising initiatives.

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Wishes Come True Through Community Support

Stories That Show the Impact of a Wish

Every wish has a story worth telling. Here you'll find the moments that matter most — the wide-eyed wonder of a child meeting their hero, the laughter of a family on an adventure they never thought possible, and the quiet, powerful joy of a dream coming true.


These are the stories of our Special Wish kids: their courage, their spirit, and the unforgettable experiences that remind us all why this work matters. Let their journeys inspire yours.

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Common Questions About A Special Wish

Helpful Answers for Families and Supporters

  • Who can receive a wish?

    Children from birth through age 20 who have a physician-diagnosed life-threatening illness may be eligible to receive a wish through A Special Wish Foundation. Eligibility is confirmed with the child’s medical provider to ensure the wish experience is appropriate and meaningful for the child and family. The Southwest Ohio chapter supports families across a wide region, including children connected with Dayton Children’s Hospital and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Once eligibility is confirmed, the wish planning process begins with the family to help create a personalized experience centered around the child’s interests.

  • How do I refer a child for a wish?

    A child can be referred by a parent or guardian, a medical professional, a social worker, or another caregiver involved in the child’s life. The referral process begins by submitting basic information about the child and their medical diagnosis so the organization can confirm eligibility and begin outreach to the family. We grant wishes to children living in Adams, Auglaize, Brown, Butler, Champaign, Clark, Clermont, Clinton, Darke, Grenne, Hamilton, Highland, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Pike, Preble, Scioto, Shelby and Warren counties.

  • How many wishes has A Special Wish granted?

    Since its founding in 1983, A Special Wish of Southwest Ohio has granted nearly 2,000 wishes for children across the region. Each wish represents a moment of joy created through the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners. Wishes vary widely depending on the child’s interests, ranging from special experiences and travel opportunities to meaningful gifts or celebrations with loved ones. These moments often become cherished memories that families carry with them long after the wish has taken place.

  • Can I help?

    Yes. Community members play a vital role in helping wishes come true, and there are many ways to get involved. Individuals and families can donate, volunteer at fundraising events, attend community gatherings, or organize local fundraisers to support wishes. Businesses and community groups also partner with A Special Wish through sponsorships and collaborative events. Every contribution helps create meaningful moments for children and families across Southwest Ohio.