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Ohio University alumna Annmarie O’Grady is making a significant impact on the Ohio Valley through her role as the director of the Ohio Valley Chapter of A Special Wish Foundation . This Ohio-based children’s wish-granting organization, with several chapters across the state, focuses on bringing joy to children facing serious illnesses.
O’Grady's chapter stands out by covering southeastern Ohio and four counties in West Virginia—Hancock, Brooke, Marshall, and Ohio—ensuring that every wish granted is local, creating a direct and heartfelt impact on the community.
"Every wish that we grant is local, it's truly special that every child and adolescent we grant wishes to is right here in the Ohio Valley," O’Grady said. "It's not someone in another part of the state or country; it's our neighbors and friends."
The Foundation grants a wide variety of wishes, as diverse as the children who make them. From meeting Pittsburgh Pirates players to visiting the world’s largest reptile zoo in Michigan, to the most popular destination - Disney World, where children and their families experience not just the magic of Disney but also Universal Studios and SeaWorld.
"The wish reveals are some of my favorite moments," O’Grady said. "Seeing the expressions and happiness on the faces of the wish child and their families is indescribable."
O’Grady’s journey to her current role was driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful impact.
"Years ago, I felt there was something more I was meant to do," she said. After learning about A Special Wish Foundation through a friend, she joined the board and eventually became the director, bringing her unique blend of passion, communication skills, and dedication to the role.
A graduate of Ohio University with a degree in interpersonal communications, O’Grady credits her college experience for shaping her path.
"My time at Ohio University, especially learning from Professor Michael McTeague, changed my life," she said. "The skills I gained in public speaking, writing, and building relationships have been invaluable in every aspect of my career."
O’Grady also emphasizes the importance of networking and community involvement.
"The power of networking and building relationships is crucial. The connections I've made through various chambers of commerce have been instrumental in supporting our work at A Special Wish Foundation," she said.
O’Grady's dedication and efforts are a testament to the profound impact that one individual can have on their community. Through A Special Wish Foundation, she continues to brighten the futures of children in the Ohio Valley, one wish at a time.
To learn more about how you can get involved or to make a referral, please contact O’Grady at (740) 449-2063 or via email at aogrady@spwishov.com
Interested in helping make wishes come true? Support the foundation by making a donation. You can donate online at A Special Wish Foundation or send your contributions by mail to ASWOV, P.O. Box 674, St. Clairsville, OH 43950.
For an inspiring account of O’Grady's journey, tune in to OHIO Eastern's new podcast , "Career, Community, and Connections," available now on iHeart media or your preferred podcast platform.