By Sixtine Tabard - Reading time 3 minsSustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) calls on the global community to build peaceful, inclusive societies and strong institutions. For nonprofits working with children, this is a daily commitment. We must ensure that every child is treated with dignity and feels truly seen and heard.
The way Make-A-Wish supports diversity, equity and inclusion as a global charity reflects this responsibility in action. As a nonprofit operating in nearly 50 countries, Make-A-Wish goes beyond service delivery. The worldwide organization is trying to shape a more just and compassionate world, one wish at a time.
Embedding DEI in wish granting: from language to logistics
From the moment a referral is made to the experience itself: our DEI commitments must be reflected in every part of the wish journey. Make-A-Wish emphasizes inclusive language that respects diverse identities and avoids stereotyping. Local wish-granting teams work with each family to reflect the child’s unique identity, while respecting their cultural background.
Physical accessibility and local context matter too. This means providing materials in different languages and choosing venues that are easy to access and respectful of local culture.
Make-A-Wish respects religious and ethnic customs. The organization also takes care to avoid assumptions about family structure, gender, or identity. At the heart of this approach is one clear principle: every eligible child should feel seen and fully supported, no matter where they live or what their circumstances may be.
Inclusive policies and global representation within Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish operates across nearly 50 countries. With this global reach comes a commitment to global representation. The organization’s international network is supported by a diverse staff, volunteers, and governance bodies who reflect the communities they serve.
The internal policies of Make-A-Wish are evolving to model inclusive best practices. A multilingual staff is recruited and training modules on unconscious bias are being developed. Our online presence, publications, and community engagement consistently reflect diverse voices and faces. Equity in leadership is crucial to making decisions that truly reflect the needs and realities of local communities.
Partnerships that promote justice, access, and equal opportunity
Strategic partnerships are essential to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). How Make-A-Wish supports these elements as a global charity is reflected in the way it collaborates with schools, hospitals and community organizations. This community-based approach helps extend support to children across social, geographic, and economic boundaries.
By working closely with locally trusted organizations, Make-A-Wish ensures that its impact is not only wide-reaching but also deeply rooted in local realities. These partnerships are built on shared values like access to care, equal educational opportunity, and the overall well-being of children.
Addressing systemic inequities through wish experiences
Wishes are often granted to children experiencing more than just illness. Many also face discrimination, poverty, or social isolation. Make-A-Wish addresses these intersecting vulnerabilities by prioritizing outreach and inclusion initiatives in underserved areas. This ensures that children from all walks of life, regardless of their location, nationality, or family income, can access joy, relief, and emotional healing through a wish.
Transparency and accountability in DEI efforts
Transparency is crucial. This is why Make-A-Wish shares its commitments, impact metrics, and program highlights through regular global reporting. Donors and partners can track progress and understand how DEI is embedded in every aspect of the wish journey. Reporting includes case studies, representation data, and testimonials that reflect the voices of those served.
Looking ahead: evolving DEI goals for future impact
The way Make-A-Wish supports diversity, equity and inclusion as a global charity is also reflected in its forward-looking goals. Future DEI efforts include strengthening the inclusion of children with disabilities and engaging underrepresented Indigenous communities,
Make-A-Wish is also investing in global training on inclusive practices. The organization is improving its data systems to better track representation and is building stronger partnerships with marginalized groups.
By continuously evolving its DEI strategy, Make-A-Wish sends a powerful message: every child matters, and every story deserves to be honored with fairness, dignity, and hope. Join us in making every wish child feel seen and valued. Get involved to be part of this powerful message.