Friends for Wishes is an organization that helps children with critical illnesses at Make-A-Wish forget about their illness for a day and help their wishes come true. It was established in April 2013 and received their 501©3 status in 2014. The idea came from Norman Walker, who has a passion in helping children. He approached a few of his friends about the idea of a BBQ Cook-off which would benefit Make-A-Wish, and Friends for Wishes was formed. There is now an Executive Board and Board of Directors.

In nine years, we have given Make-A-Wish a little over $1,000,000. Friends for Wishes has helped over 107 children with critical illnesses forget about their illness for a day and give them the emotional and physical lift they need. The cost of sponsoring a child with a critical illness is $10,000. You may choose a child from a Wish List from Make-A-Wish. These kids become family to us.

Some of our sponsors include Cavender’s Boot City, Halliburton, Lee Hoffpauir Auto Group, Hoffpauir Outdoor Store, Champion Ranchers Supply, Gregory Edwards Mechanical Contractors, Morris Builders, Smith

& Associates, Noble Energy, Parodia, Smith Ranch and Whataburger as well as many individuals, just to name a few.

Our BBQ Cook-off for 2024 is October 18-19,, 2024 at the Waller County Fairgrounds in Hempstead, Texas. With volunteers from organizations like HHC, Diamonds & Dollars, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo and Waller County Fair Association. On Saturday there is a Kids Zone with jumpy houses and obstacle course, cotton candy, snow cones and face painting for kids to enjoy. In the past - NFL Play 60 (Amobi Okoye formerly with the Houston Texans came out and worked with kids of all ages exercise for an hour using their expertise). Awards will be given out to the Cook-off winners after a live auction. A Silent & Big Board Auction will be open most of the day on Saturday. There is more information on our website www.friendsforwishes.org. All money raised goes to Make-A-Wish.

We are seeking sponsors for our events. If you would like to be a sponsor, volunteer or make a donation, please contact: Tom Hanna (Chairman of BBQ Cookoff) at 832-577-2581 or by email at ffwbbqchair@gmail.com or Judy Wirzberg (Treasurer) at 281-468-1439 or by email: wirzje@gmail.com or visit our website: www.friendsforwishes.org