How one company is making a big difference for kids in need

Running a business of any size is complex. Logistics, finances, employee management and more are always top of mind. But a business is more than just processes and spreadsheets — organizations can also be a positive force in their communities and for people in need.

Giving back is a Core Value at ABC Supply Co., Inc., the largest wholesale distributor of roofing and other select exterior and interior building products in North America. That’s why they have recommitted to creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses with another $3 million pledge to Make-A-Wish America. Since becoming a national partner in 2020, ABC Supply has helped grant the wishes of more than 400 children nationwide.

Helping children with critical illness

Every 20 minutes a child is diagnosed with a critical illness — and every day Make-A-Wish grants more than 15 wishes to these amazing children. This would not be possible without a generous network of donors, partners and volunteers, such as ABC Supply.

“Giving back is at the heart of our business and culture,” said Mike Jost, chief operating officer of ABC Supply. “Make-A-Wish is an extraordinary organization, and we’re so happy to continue supporting their mission and efforts to grant wishes and deliver hope to many more deserving children.”

ABC Supply shared some of the important efforts the company has made to support Make-A-Wish:

Sky Carp Make-A-Wish event

ABC Supply and the Beloit Sky Carp Minor League Baseball in Wisconsin partnered to host a fun and meaningful Make-A-Wish Night at ABC Supply Stadium in August 2023. With a raffle, prizes and sports memorabilia, there was something to entice everyone. The Sky Carp players even wore special jerseys that were auctioned off following the game. Make-A-Wish kids in attendance were given the star treatment and were guests of honor at the event.

Eden’s she-shed

Eden is a 7-year-old sickle cell warrior. While much of her day-to-day routine is filled with doctors’ appointments and medications, she still finds ways to be joyful and creative amidst the chaos. After taking some time to think through what her wish might be, she shared that she wanted a space of her own to craft, read, play chess, cross-stitch and make jewelry with her friends. ABC Supply helped make this girl's vision come to life with a she-shed space that is as unique and special as she is.

Belle’s dragon

Wish kid Belle is a 14-year-old with bone cancer who has always wanted her own “pet robotic dragon.” Earlier this year, her wish and imagination came to life when she was surprised with her 15-pound pet dragon at a massive 15th-century-style castle. The castle experience took place via virtual reality (VR) and transported Belle to a fantastical place far, far away, where she saw her dragon for the first time. When she removed the VR headset, her pet dragon was there by her side.

Blaize’s play structure

At only eight months old, Blaize was diagnosed with infant leukemia. For more than a year and a half, he was in and out of treatment. His cancer reoccurred at 14 months and he had to undergo a risky bone marrow transplant surgery. Blaize’s surgery was successful, and at 18 months old, he was finally able to return to the comfort of home. His family worked closely with Make-A-Wish, and with the help of ABC Supply, created a backyard play space just right for him.