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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Wishing Star plans to form chapter

Wishing Star Foundation is holding a meeting to organize a Spokane chapter on Wednesday.

The nonprofit, which grants wishes for children suffering from life-threatening or life-shortening illnesses, is formalizing its local operations in hopes of gathering additional support, said Dani Zibell, executive director.

Wishing Star is looking for volunteers to help with fund-raising and serve as board members and officers.

While the nonprofit has lacked an organized Spokane chapter, it maintained a local office and volunteer base.

The Spokane office granted wishes for 70 children living in Eastern and Central Washington and Idaho in 2003. It is on track to serve 100 children by the end of its 2004 fiscal year, in July, Zibell said.

Some of the organization’s most popular wishes include trips to Disneyland and Walt Disney World, playrooms, and electronic equipment, such as computers, for teenagers.

“This is something where they make the decision and they have the control,” Zibell said. “We feel it’s all about the kids.”

Wednesday’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at Heroes and Legends, 825 W. Riverside Ave. Participants can purchase food off the menu and are asked to RSVP to 744-3411 so the restaurant can plan staffing.