Lorri Zimmer is a Wish granter for the Make-A-Wish Foundation who is extremely passionate about what she does day in and day out. Zimmer has been a Wish granter since the mid 80's starting in the Illinois sanction before moving back home to Valpo to start working with a group of people in Northwest Indiana.
“I love it so much because I get to come into these people's homes and I get to meet these kids and get to be the fun part,” said Zimmer.
The Make-A-Wish foundation puts its time and effort into making even the simplest, smallest wish come true for each individual to try and put a smile on the kids' faces. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Zimmer finds that making a bond with each individual and their family is such a big part of the program, and it’s one of her favorite parts.
“With 99.9% of the families that meet, you bond with them, become friends with them. You’re in their home and you get to know their kids. The families are awesome, the kids are unbelievable, and it’s so rewarding for me because I get to be a part of that," said Zimmer.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation has a big impact on families for many different reasons, but the main reason why it's such a big deal is because of the memories that are gifted. The Wish gives them the ability to have a fun experience together, rather than being told bad news all the time from doctors and worrying about the next medical bill. These families are able to be a normal family again.
“They talked about how they were so grateful that they had seven days to just be a normal family and go to Disney World, and even though they are treated like royalty at Disney World, at least they have that and it’s an extra perk for everyone,” said Zimmer.
Outside of her work, Zimmer loves to keep herself busy with many different things, ranging from the simplicity of being around her rescue animals or going out on a much needed vacation with a group of her friends. Zimmer is big on both animals and people in her life. Zimmer grew up on a farm and was an only child growing up, which is one reason why she thinks she’s such a big animal lover to this day.
Zimmer loves her work and rarely ever takes time off, but she believes it is good to still get away from work and not let your entire life be directed on it. Her work has also been a source of her realizing how important family is and spending time with them.
“I love my job, I love what I do, that is a huge part of my life. But, you can’t make your entire life about work. You have to spend time doing stuff you enjoy. I’ve been really big on my family; I have a 97-year-old grandma living in my neighbor's house that I bought right next to me so I can see her every day. Especially being around these kids, it really makes you appreciate what you have and you don’t want to take one moment for granted,” said Zimmer.
Zimmer is very grateful for the life she has and loves that she can help be a light in others lives who may not have everything as planned out in life.
“You’re fortunate if you have your health. If you have your health, you can make the rest of your life good,” said Zimmer.