MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Make a Wish America, in partnership with “NCAA Division II Grants Wishes,” is a program that enlists the help of student-athletes, coaches, and team officials to raise money for the Make a Wish Foundation. Every year Make a Wish grants the wishes of critically ill children throughout Michigan. One of the organizers, Ahna Larson, is truly grateful for the outpouring of generosity.
“I think it shows that our staff and our student-athletes are really just selfless people, and it’s really cool to see our campus participate and kind of interact with it as well,” said Larson.
Those who wish to participate, buy a pie and then choose who on the panel they want to hit in the face with it. Today’s fundraiser was part of a week of raising money for sick kids.
“We organized this event as part of wish week. Our NMU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee is partnered with, along with division two athletics, and with the Make a Wish Foundation,” said Larson.
Some of the VIPs who welcomed a pie in the face were NMU Athletic Director Rick Comley, and head hockey Coach Dave Shyiak, both of whom were frequent targets.
“We kind of just wanted to bring it to campus. Raise more awareness for the Make-a-Wish Foundation,” said Larson.
Make A Wish recipient, Tim Knapp was on hand to toss a couple of pies, as well as get one in the face himself.
“It’s really exciting to see and puts a smile on everybody’s faces. Even the people who are getting pied,” said Knape.
Today’s event raised $630 to bring their total donations to over $5,000.
