EVANSTON — Melinda Hintz, of Evanston, has recently been recognized as the Make-A-Wish Volunteer of the Year for the Wyoming chapter of the organization. The awards banquet was held in Casper on Saturday, Nov. 9.

“I think when the kids get to have their wish granted and have their celebration party, they get to be happy for a little while. Their families get to see them happy, and they get to breathe for a minute,” Hintz told the Herald.

While Hintz began her volunteerism 18 years ago, she initially became aware of the foundation when a high school classmate was terminally ill.

“Make-A-Wish published her poems before she died,” she told the Herald.

In the time that she’s been a volunteer, she’s helped bring 14 wishes to fruition throughout Uinta and Lincoln counties and is currently working on five wishes in Evanston.

“They don’t have to be terminally ill, but critically [ill]. Once they qualify, I meet with the families to discuss their likes, their wishes.”

Hintz then submits to Wyoming headquarters in Casper. Once the wish packages are approved, Hintz throws a “sneak peek” party to let the recipient know. Hintz also organizes and hosts additional celebratory parties for the wishers and their families.

Some of Hintz’s favorite wishes granted include a golf simulator for a young enthusiast and a fishing trip with famed outdoorsman Steven Rinella.  “That one was pretty cool,” she said.

Hintz’s efforts have become a family affair as her 17-year-old son, Landyn Gray, has also gotten involved with the foundation.

“It is great having him work beside me granting these wishes. It gives him some appreciation and understanding for others,” she said. “He really enjoys it.”