The Wishes Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that exists to serve children in need by bringing the world's most beloved fairytale characters to life. Our volunteers interact with children in pediatric hospitals, special need schools, and social service institutions with a common goal of fostering one-on-one interactions and providing personalized attention absolutely free of charge for all visit recipients. 

 

Founded in 2016 by two Belmont University students, Kat O'Neill and Rachael Keneally, The Wishes Foundation has grown from two characters to twenty since its creation. Our character performers are carefully selected to ensure a passion for service, performance, and pediatric interaction, and must attend training sessions in not only character specific sessions, but also skills relevant to our population, such as sensitivity training, bedside mannerisms, and HIPAA training. To ensure the highest quality of character portrayal in the Nashville area, The Wishes Foundation is additionally committed to exact-replica costuming and custom-made costuming to represent the clearest image of our characters possible.

 

With operations in four branches — character performers, character assistants, a fundraising team, and an executive board — Wishes has gathered a total of over eighty volunteers in the Nashville area, all with a focus and passion for the joy of service.

 

The Wishes Foundation partners with local organizations such as The Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, The Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, King’s Daughters Developmental Home, and High Hopes Development Center. Wishes continues to expand our client base and find joy in serving the Kingdom of Nashville.