Consul General in Krakow Hosts Reception in Honor of Make-A-Wish Foundation Founder

21 September, 2007

Consul General Anne Hall and Linda Bergendahl-Pauling

Consul General Anne Hall hosted a reception on September 21 for American Linda Bergendahl-Pauling, the founder of Make-A-Wish Foundation, which has been giving hope to children suffering from life-threatening illnesses for over twenty-five years.  Linda Bergendahl-Pauling was in Poland to receive the prestigious Ecce Homo award for her devotion to work with children.  Volunteers from the Polish equivalent of Make-A-Wish Foundation as well as the representatives of other charity organizations attended the reception, which was an opportunity for the US Consulate to also honor those who do volunteer work.  In her speech to guests and in an interview for local television, Consul General Hall emphasized the importance of volunteerism in a democratic society.    

Foundation "Mam Marzenie", was established 5 years ago, and since then they have granted over 1100 wishes to Polish children.  "Mam Marzenie" has also developed the spirit of volunteerism among the many young Poles who give their time to help fulfill a child’s wish. 

For information on their programs, please go to http://www.mammarzenie.org/.