Understanding the Mission of Wish of a Lifetime
Wish of a Lifetime (WoL) became a charitable affiliate of AARP in 2020, significantly expanding its reach and impact. The organization's core mission is to promote healthy and purposeful aging by sparking hope and joy in the hearts of older adults. The program is built on the understanding that as people age, barriers such as health challenges, financial constraints, or social inequalities can lead to isolation and despair. By fulfilling a meaningful wish, WoL aims to reignite a sense of purpose and create cherished memories for recipients and their families.
The Impact of Wish-Granting
Granting a wish for an older adult is more than a fleeting moment of happiness; it has a profound and lasting impact on their well-being. Studies and testimonials have shown that wish recipients often experience a significantly improved quality of life and outlook. By reconnecting with a long-lost passion, a loved one, or a significant memory, seniors can feel more involved in the world around them, combating the negative effects of social isolation. The feeling of being seen, heard, and celebrated can provide a renewed sense of hope and self-worth.
Types of Wishes Granted by Wish of a Lifetime
The wishes granted by WoL are incredibly diverse and deeply personal. They are categorized based on the motivation behind the dream:
- Reconnecting loved ones: Many wishes involve reuniting with family members, old friends, or former military comrades after years of separation.
- Fulfilling lifelong dreams: This category includes fulfilling long-held aspirations, like performing on a Broadway stage, driving a race car, or skydiving.
- Celebrating passions: Some wishes reignite a recipient's lifelong passion, such as a musician performing for an audience or a veteran visiting a memorial that honors their service.
- Commemorating service: Wishes that honor a recipient's lifelong sacrifices and contributions to their country or community are also a priority.
Who Is Eligible for a Wish?
To be considered for a wish, an individual must meet specific criteria:
- They must be 65 years of age or older.
- They must reside within the United States or its territories.
- They must be unable to fulfill the wish on their own, often due to health or financial limitations.
- They must be physically and mentally capable of experiencing the wish.
The Nomination Process
Anyone can nominate a deserving older adult for a Wish of a Lifetime, including family, friends, caregivers, or community members. The process is straightforward and is initiated by submitting an online application. After a submission, the WoL team reviews the application, with priority often given to those who exhibit signs of isolation. The process involves interviews with the nominator and recipient before a committee makes a final determination.
Comparison with Other Wish-Granting Organizations
| Feature | Wish of a Lifetime (AARP) | Make-A-Wish Foundation | Dream Foundation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Age Group | 65 and older | 2.5 to 18 years old | Terminally-ill adults (18+) |
| Wish Focus | Combating isolation and promoting purposeful aging | Children with critical illnesses | Providing end-of-life wishes and comfort |
| Financial Scope | Wishes that recipients cannot fulfill on their own | Expenses covered for the child and family | Dreams for adults nearing the end of their life |
| Associated Entity | AARP charitable affiliate | Independent non-profit | Independent non-profit |
| Primary Goal | Sparking hope and joy in older adults | Granting wishes to strengthen and empower kids | Giving life to final dreams |
The Role of Volunteers and Donations
Wish of a Lifetime relies heavily on the support of volunteers and donors to make dreams a reality. Volunteers are essential in several capacities:
- Wish Discovery: Finding and nominating deserving older adults in the community who may not have otherwise known about the program.
- Wish Fulfillment: Assisting with the logistics and execution of the wish experience itself, ensuring every detail is perfect for the recipient.
- Community Support: Spreading awareness about the program and its mission, encouraging more nominations and support.
Donations, both individual and corporate, are crucial for funding the wishes. Without this financial support, the program would be unable to provide these life-changing experiences. If you are interested in volunteering or donating, you can find more information on the official Wish of a Lifetime website.
Inspiring Stories and Legacy
Wish of a Lifetime was founded in 2008 by former Olympic skier Jeremy Bloom in honor of his grandmother, Donna Wheeler. Inspired by his global travels and the stories of resilient older adults, Bloom sought to create a platform that celebrates seniors and combats ageism. The program's evolution, especially with its affiliation with AARP, has led to countless inspiring stories of older Americans finding renewed purpose. From reconnecting segregation-era rivals to sending veterans back to hallowed ground, the stories shared by WoL demonstrate the power of human connection and fulfilling one's deepest desires.
Conclusion: A Symbol of Hope for Seniors In summary, the Wish of a Lifetime from AARP is a powerful charitable initiative designed to honor and empower older adults. By granting personalized dreams, the program helps combat the social isolation that many seniors face, fostering a sense of purpose and joy. It is a testament to the belief that aging can be a journey of continued fulfillment, connection, and inspiration. For those seeking to celebrate the lives of older adults, nominating someone for a Wish of a Lifetime is a meaningful way to give back and create a truly unforgettable experience.
