Shadow Ridge High School came together to celebrate “Wish Week,” a meaningful event dedicated to supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This special week consisted of spirit days, exciting events, and fundraising efforts, all designed to bring joy to a Make-A-Wish child. This tradition, which began last year, allows the Shadow Ridge community to “adopt” a Make-A-Wish child and spend the week celebrating them while raising money to grant their wish.
Helping others is one of the most fulfilling experiences a person can have. That is why, starting next year, Dana Marchenko and Harmony Taylor will step into the role of Make-A-Wish coordinators, taking on the responsibility of organizing and leading Wish Week. Marchenko is passionate about this role, as she believes that no child deserves to go through tough times alone. Marchenko shared, “I want to help kids going through a tough time by giving them a fun week because no kid deserves to be sick.”
Her empathy and dedication make her the perfect person to lead this initiative.
Marchenko’s responsibilities as the Make-A-Wish Coordinator will involve direct communication with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, planning events, and ensuring the adopted child will have a memorable experience. By organizing these activities, Marchenko plays a large role in helping fundraise the money necessary to give this child the hope and joy they deserve.
“As Coordinator, you get in contact with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Then, at school we put on a spirit week that reflects the kid’s interests. At the end of the week the kid attends a pep rally at the school, also about that child. Also, through the school week we are trying to raise money that will be put towards fulfilling the kid’s wish,” she tells.
Looking forward, Marchenko is most excited about meeting the child whose wish she is helping to fulfill. She sees this as an opportunity to make a meaningful connection and create lasting memories for both the child and the school community.
“I am most looking forward to meeting the kid and creating some publicity for the Make-A-Wish Foundation,” Marckenko said.
Wish Week is more than just a school tradition. It is a heartfelt way to bring joy to children facing hardships. With leaders like Dana Marcheko at the front of it, Shadow Ridge’s commitment to kindness and generosity will continue to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
