Fort Worth – In a major boost to the region’s charitable landscape, longtime supporters Andy Dunning and Jaime Wester announced a $1 million commitment to Make‑A‑Wish North Texas. The gift is earmarked for the organization’s “Two Years, Too Long” campaign, which seeks to shorten the wait time for children with critical illnesses who are awaiting a wish.
The donation marks the first contribution of this size specifically designated for Fort Worth area children. Currently, about 380 youngsters in the city are on the waiting list for a wish. By directing funds to the local campaign, Dunning and Wester hope to grant wishes more quickly and bring moments of hope and joy to families throughout the community.
Donors’ deep roots in the organization
Both donors have a long history with Make‑A‑Wish North Texas. Andy Dunning first became involved in 1998 and served as the Wish Night auctioneer for more than twenty years, helping generate significant support for the nonprofit’s mission. In 2016, Dunning and Wester co‑chaired the Wish Night event, the first year the fundraiser surpassed $2 million.
“Make‑A‑Wish has been an important part of my life since 1998, and Jaime and I have always felt a calling to give back,” Dunning said. “Fort Worth is our home, and we’re honored to make this commitment for children in the area who are waiting for their wishes to be granted, and for the families who support them every step of the way.”
Impact on families and the community
Kim Elenez, CEO of Make‑A‑Wish North Texas, praised the generosity, noting that the gift will build critical momentum for the campaign and inspire other donors across Fort Worth. “Their generosity will help ensure no eligible child waits longer than necessary for hope and joy,” Elenez said.
The announcement also received a proclamation from the City of Fort Worth. Mayor Pro Tem and District 2 City Councilmember Carlos Flores presented the proclamation, highlighting the urgent need to support local children awaiting wishes and underscoring the role of community leaders, businesses, and volunteers in the effort.
New leadership role
Effective September 1, 2026, Andy Dunning will assume the position of Chairman of the Make‑A‑Wish North Texas Board of Directors. He joined the board in 2024 and has remained a dedicated advocate for the organization’s mission.
Beyond his philanthropic work, Dunning is a nationally recognized entrepreneur and award‑winning auctioneer. He founded Dealers Auction Xchange, which now operates in Rockwall, Amarillo, Wichita Falls, and Tampa, Florida. Jaime Wester, a Fort Worth native, leads Coldwell Banker Realty as a top‑producing agent, serves as managing partner of James & James Properties, and is active in community groups such as Ladies on the Lamb, which supports young agricultural exhibitors at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo.
Why wishes matter
Research shows that granting a wish can positively affect a child’s emotional and physical well‑being during treatment, while also strengthening families and creating lasting memories during extremely difficult times. Each year, more than 1,100 children across North Texas are newly diagnosed with critical illnesses. With the help of donors, volunteers, and community partners, Make‑A‑Wish North Texas aims for a future where every eligible child can experience the power of a wish without delay.
Fort Worth residents who wish to learn more or contribute to the cause can visit wish.org/ntx.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
