Bankers Make Wishes Come True

SouthState bankers go to work each day to make customers’ dreams of buying their first home and enjoying retirement a reality. This fall, a group of bankers, with the community’s help, made wishes come true for two special children.

SouthState connected with Make-A-Wish South Carolina several years ago, first as the organization’s banker and later as a fundraising host.

“Every gift raised through a branch campaign goes straight toward granting a wish for a local child. So when SouthState branches and customers get involved, they’re helping a child in their own community experience something truly special as their wish comes to life,” says Kea Wade, Make-A-Wish South Carolina Director of Corporate and Community Engagement.

Alana’s Wish

During World Wish Month, branches in the Greenville region hosted a customer donation campaign, and a wish was fully funded through the generosity of both customers and area team members.

Greenville bankers gathered just before Thanksgiving to surprise 12-year-old Alana with the big news that her wish had been granted.

Alana and her family will now pack their bags for Walt Disney World. The preteen wished for a day to meet her favorite princess, Tiana; ride coasters with her siblings, nephew and mother; and enjoy all Disney has to offer. Her wish being granted offers the family respite from her battle with bone cancer.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to help bring Disney magic to Alana and her family,” says Angie Howell, SouthState regional area manager. “I loved seeing Alana open her gifts and share what she loves to do and her excitement about Disney.”

Ray’s Wish

The Piedmont branches, covering Rock Hill, Fort Mill and York, jumped in with their own fundraising campaign in September. Their mission – make Wish Kid Ray’s day brighter with a new furry friend.

The 10-year-old Rock Hill resident lives with a serious heart condition that means he tires more than other kids his age. His genuine spirit remains strong, however, and he strives to live and play like a normal kid.

Part of being a normal kid is a companion to grow up with. Ray wished for a golden retriever puppy he can play with and teach tricks.

Thanks to the support of 5 SouthState branches, Ray’s wish came true. 
“Ray’s smile couldn’t have been bigger when we brought out his new puppy. The whole room lit up with the joy of the moment. We’re lucky to have been a part of it,” says Josh Nyegaard, Rock Hill branch manager. 

SouthtState is proud to continue this partnership with Make-A-Wish and many other deserving nonprofits across our footprint. Find more examples on our Corporate Stewardship page.