It’s Wish Week at Chico State!

Chico State’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has built a strong tradition of community service, and its partnership with Make-A-Wish of Northeastern California and Northern Nevada is one of the pillars.

Alex also knows about building. Born with a single ventricle, the five-year-old has received a new LEGO set after every one of his trips to the emergency room. Alex also loves all things Spider-Man and coloring.

Alex immediately underwent open heart surgery following his birth and has had multiple surgeries since. His most recent surgery was in July, 206, and he has recovered well. He began school in the fall.

Saturday, during halftime of the Chico State men’s basketball game, Chico State’s SAAC and Make-A-Wish of Northeastern California and Northern Nevada will grant Alex’s wish with a trip to LEGOLAND.

Alex will be the fourth local child the Wildcats have granted a wish for in the past eight years. In 2011, Chico State’s SAAC, working in partnership with Make-A-Wish and NCAA Division II, sent nine-year old Mason Fontana and his parents to Hollywood so that Mason could appear on his favorite TV show, “Yo-Gabba-Gabba.”  In 2014, SAAC helped 15-year old Marcus Tice pursue his wish to go to college by donating $5,000 to start a 529 College Savings plan. In 2016, the Wildcats helped send four-year-old Davan to Walt Disney World.

About the NCAA Division II/Make-A-Wish partnership
NCAA Division II has been a sponsor of Make-A-Wish since 2003 raising more than $5.3 million dollars since the alliance’s inception. The alliance consists of Division II student-athletes who conduct predetermined fundraisers and volunteer their time to benefit Make-A-Wish.

About the Chico State Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
The Chico State Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, better known as SAAC, is made up of at least two representatives from each of the department’s 13 sports.  Members of SAAC participate in many community service events, act as a liaison between their team and the athletic department administration, and represent the department at various on and off campus activities.

About Make-A-Wish Northeastern California and Northern Nevada
Make-A-Wish creates life changing wishes for children with critical illnesses and are on a quest to bring every eligible local child’s wish to life. Research has shown that a wish is an integral part of a child’s treatment journey. Make-A-Wish Northeastern California and Northern Nevada was established in 1983 as one of the early local chapters of Make-A-Wish America. For more information call (916) 437-0206 or visit necannv.wish.org.