Make-A-Wish® Northeastern & Central California relies on the skills and compassion of its leadership team to grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses throughout 28 counties. Nearly 500 wishes are waiting to be granted within this chapter and every senior leader in the organization plays a crucial role in granting wishes.

President and CEO Julie Hirota, in her current role for only two years, has numerous accomplishments in the nonprofit world, where she’s known for lifting organizations to success. She has already turned Make-A-Wish NCC around financially after the enormous setbacks of the Covid pandemic, when shutdowns derailed so many wishes. Thanks to her vision, practicality, business skills and ability to build and lead an effective team, Make-A-Wish NCC is poised for even greater success.

Senior Director of Chapter Advancement Melanie Flood has an international background in development and communications strategy, including patient advocacy. She creates new revenue streams and a strategy through public education, development and media campaigns. A critical illness patient herself, Melanie has helped shape legislation in California and the U.S. for patients and shares a heartfelt connection with Make-A-Wish kids and families.

“Together, we can bring kids with critical illnesses joy during their medical journeys.”— Julie Hirota, President & CEO

Senior Director of Mission Delivery and Outreach Kelli Miller heads the wish team, making the impossible possible. She started as a wish granter before joining Make-A-Wish as an employee. Her team puts wishes together with creativity, whether it’s as fun as a puppy to something as complex as attending the Super Bowl. She was recently named as an honoree by Sacramento Business Journal in this year’s 40 Under 40 Awards.

Senior Director of Regional Development Cortney Snapp has been with Make-A-Wish for 15 years and leads fundraising for the Central Valley. Her nephew was diagnosed at five with leukemia when his wish was granted. This lived experience gives her a unique perspective on the journey of a wish.

“Wishes can’t wait,” says Hirota. “With 160 wishes waiting for two to three years, we invite the community to contribute to our upcoming World Wish Month campaign in April. Together, we can bring kids with critical illnesses joy during their medical journeys.”