Associated Food Stores partnered with Make-A-Wish Utah to raise funds that help grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
This year’s campaign raised $84,943.73 – $3,000 more than last year’s total – with employees at Macey’s, Lin’s, Dan’s, Dick’s Market and Fresh Market helping lead the effort, collecting donations in-store and online. Each location focused on a local Wish Kid.
“The Make-A-Wish drive is something our team looks forward to every year,” said Greg Welling, VP of retail operations at Associated Retail Operations (ARO). “As a local company, we’re proud to support causes that directly impact the families in our communities. This partnership gives us the opportunity to bring hope to children when they need it most.”
Cashiers at Lin’s Cedar, Price, Macey’s Holladay and Dick’s Market Centerville collected the most donations and won various prizes.
Macey’s Olympus was the top selling store, raising nearly $9,000. It also had the opportunity to host the Wish Proclamation and check presentation party, an event where a local child learns that their wish is coming true.
The Olympus team had a challenge with store leadership and the CRM team. If it was the top selling store, staff members could throw pies at them. The pie throwing event happened July 1.
During the campaign, several stores hosted visits from Wish Kids, who participated in activities such as cupcake decorating, making announcements over the PA system and sharing favorite family recipes. The experiences helped connect the team and community to the mission.
“Our team has always loved what Make-A-Wish represents, and I appreciate how fun they make the campaign,” said Candice Fischer, director of customer relations management at ARO. “Getting to meet the kids and see their excitement is something truly special. It makes the campaign feel personal for our stores and our guests.”
Since partnering with Make-A-Wish, Associated Food Stores has raised enough funds to help grant more than 150 wishes for children.
[RELATED: AFS Shares Executive Promotions As White Prepares For New URM Role]