Sisters Natalie and Claire Wilkinson came together in the beginning of the school year to form Hamilton Southeastern’s first ever Make a Wish Club. After being exposed to the foundation for most of their lives due to their dad’s involvement on the Indiana board, the Wilkinsons wanted to reveal what it’s like to be a part of Make a Wish to their friends and classmates.

By giving back to the community and raising money to help children with life threatening diseases, their sister relationship has thrived. “Claire and I have definitely had to collaborate a lot in order to have all of our fundraisers and events happen smoothly.” Natalie said.  Although their growing connection has been a great reward, they agree that the most fulfilling thing about being leaders of the club is volunteering and seeing how their actions benefit the Wish families.

Leading the club together has influenced the many members that have volunteered at the Make a Wish events throughout the year. “I think the club members see that this club is very important to Natalie and I,” Claire said. “Since we are sisters, the members can assume Make a Wish has had a big impact on our lives.” They have taught students of the Make a Wish club that if something is important to you, it is possible to move forward on what you are truly passionate about.

The siblings hope that once they leave Hamilton Southeastern, underclassmen that share the same excitement for Make a Wish continue to work and improve on raising more donations each year to help children’s wishes come true. Story by Lulu Black