ALKU’s RISE Employee Resource Group led the initiative of fundraising over $9,000 back in October 2023 for Make-A-Wish. In 2024, they had the honor of granting the wish of Aeden, a seven-year-old boy living with Cystic Fibrosis. Read below to learn more about how this opportunity came to be!
Fostering Inclusivity
At ALKU, our commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace is exemplified through our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are created, led, and fostered directly by ALKU employees. These groups play a crucial role in addressing the diverse needs of our workforce and promoting a culture of understanding and support.
In 2022, the idea of ALKU’s RISE ERG came to life. This group operates under the mission of opening conversation around disabilities and better educating those with disabilities on daily living skills, treatment options, pain management, and overall health and wellness. Led by ALKU employees Haley Ante and Lisa Liberty, RISE’s goal is for employees to discover different ways to rise above the stigma and continue to learn other ways of recovery.
The Power of Make-A-Wish
Last October, ALKU’s RISE Leaders had the incredible idea to raise funds for Make-A-Wish by hosting an in-office Halloween costume contest and raffle. Make-A-Wish’s mission is to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. The children they serve are fighting for their lives, and their families are doing everything that they can to help them in their battles. With amazing participation and support from the ALKrew, the event was a huge success, and the group ended up raising over $9,000.
One of RISE’s Leaders, Lisa, shares why Make-A-Wish is such an essential organization to her giving back perspective: “When we were trying to solidify a cause, the first organization that came to my mind was Make-A-Wish. As a former Make-A-Wish recipient, I knew the impact of granting a wish. As someone with Cystic Fibrosis, I have personally experienced the difficulty of growing up as a sick kid, dealing with treatments, and the stress that families endure to provide for a sick child. I wanted us to bring a little joy to a family going through a difficult time.”
Aeden’s Wish
Earlier this year, Make-A-Wish had the honor of granting the wish of Aedan thanks to RISE’s generous donation. Aedan lives with Cystic Fibrosis and struggles to navigate the daily treatment regime that comes with the illness. Given the opportunity to have a wish granted, Aeden didn’t hesitate to choose to visit Walt Disney World with his family, as he found solace and strength in the stories of his favorite Disney characters during his most challenging moments. Through ALKU’s support and partnership, Aeden and his family celebrated his 7th birthday at Walt Disney World and returned home with hearts filled with memories they will never forget.
Lisa shares the impact Aeden’s story had on her and RISE as a group: “It was an amazing full circle moment when we found out that the wish we would be granting was for another child with Cystic Fibrosis, Aedan. It was so gratifying to know that our efforts provided Aedan’s family with happy memories for years to come. Seeing everyone at ALKU rally around him and providing their support was something I’ll never forget. With this life-changing experience, our goal is to be able to continue this fundraising effort to provide funding to grant wishes for children annually.”
As RISE continues to grow and evolve, ALKU remains committed to creating a workplace where every individual feels valued and supported. By embracing diversity, fostering understanding, and promoting inclusivity, ALKU looks forward to seeing what the future of RISE holds!