Massapequa volunteer Gwen Brundage makes wishes come true--most of the time.

"Children wish for all sorts of things," she explained. "One sick little boy wished for a million dollars, so he could cure all of the children in the world. That's one wish I wish I could have granted."

Brundage, along with ten other volunteers, recently received an Outstanding Volunteer of the Year award from the Make-a-Wish Foundation. For the past three years, she worked tirelessly with the foundation as a wish-granter, meeting with sick children to identify their wishes and bring them to fulfillment. She also volunteered at the organization's special events, and visited schools to let them know how they could become involved.

"Gwen was recognized as one of our outstanding volunteers as part of our annual recognition program for the depth and breadth of her service to the organization," said Director of Training and Volunteer Development Maria Casey. "No matter where she goes or what situation she is in, Gwen is an amazing goodwill ambassador for Make-a-Wish."

Brundage first became involved with Make-a-Wish after attending a fundraiser at Lockhart School with her grandson, then a sixth grader. "I was very impressed with the organization and knew I wanted to volunteer," she said. "But I thought perhaps I was too old."

"Make-a-Wish has an extensive volunteer program with over 500 volunteers of all ages, with many different skills," said Casey. After they complete the application process, volunteers are trained in whichever areas of service they are interested in, whether it is wish granting, public speaking on behalf of the organization, medical outreach, special events, or office help.

With today's advanced research and medical breakthroughs, many more children are living to see their wishes come true, according to Brundage. "They do a remarkable job keeping these children going. However, what they have to go through with their shots and their blood transfusions, is just unbelievable. I've known adults that have done more crying and bemoaning their fate than the children," she said. "I don't know how they do it. I don't know how their families do it."

Brundage said she felt overwhelmed by being honored, and urged others to volunteer and/or open their pocketbooks for the organization. "I get so much more out of this than I am giving," said Brundage.