Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Wisconsin Announces W.IS.H. Award Winners

Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Wisconsin will honor The Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club and longtime Foundation volunteers Todd and Muriel Lappin of Mequon with the 2010 W.I.S.H. (Winners In Sharing Happiness) Awards at its annual signature fundraising dinner, Host Night, on March 18 at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee. The Award is given to individuals and/or organizations that have made a major and long-lasting impact on Make-A-Wish Foundation of Wisconsin and have contributed significantly to its magical mission of granting wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.

The Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club and its non-profit foundation, Brewers Charities have supported the Foundation over many years through granting wishes, financial support, fundraising promotions, in-kind donations and Board representation. Many members of the Brewers family over the years, including Mark Attanasio, Bob Uecker, Bud Selig and his family, Rick Schlesinger, many players, coaches and staff have contributed to Wisconsin wishes. The Brewers also played a significant role in celebrating some of the Foundation’s major milestones, including its 20th birthday celebration and its 25th, held in July, 2009 at Miller Park, where more than 2,200 wish families, volunteers and supporters gathered for a blow-out tailgate party, followed by a Brewers game, featuring wish child Sam, whose wish came true to sing the National Anthem.

Todd and Muriel Lappin have been making a significant contribution to the Foundation since 1991. Their service began when they helped grant a wish for 5-year-old Ben who wished to go to Walt Disney World Resort. As a wish enhancement for Ben’s wish, Todd and Muriel ended up making arrangements for Ben and his family to attend a Brewers game in Bud Selig’s box. Ben autographed a giant pennant and gave it to Todd and Muriel – after that they were hooked and have been active supporters ever since. Both have served as Board members and as Board Chairs, volunteers and wish granters. Todd has also served as a national spokesperson and emcee for Make-A-Wish® events. The Lappins have also sponsored numerous wishes.

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Wisconsin grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions, enriching their lives with hope, strength and joy. The Foundation has granted more than 3,700 wishes since its inception in 1984. Last year, the Foundation granted a record-breaking 289 wishes. The Foundation is completely privately funded, relying on the gifts and support of individuals, groups, corporations, foundations, etc. The Foundation is proud to say that 82.6 % of all funds go directly to granting wishes. For more information about Make-A-Wish® Foundation, please call 262.781.4445 or 800.236.WISH in Wisconsin or visit wisconsin.wish.org.