The streets of Phoenix are set to be a little brighter come December 6 as Make-A-Wish® Arizona takes the helm as grand marshal for the 38th Annual APS Electric Light Parade. According to the City of Phoenix website, an event entrenched in community and holiday cheer, this year's parade, themed "Let It Glow," dovetails with the nonprofit's 45th anniversary—a significant marker since the very first wish was granted back in 1980, sparking the inception of the Make-A-Wish movement in Arizona.
With a record 476 wishes granted in the last fiscal year alone, Make-A-Wish Arizona is in no mood to slowly put a foot down on the celebration pedal. Fran Mallace, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Arizona, emphasized the organization's community roots in a statement obtained by City of Phoenix website, "As the founding chapter of the global Make-A-Wish movement, our community came together 45 years ago to grant the very first wish right here in Arizona. As we celebrate that milestone, we're grateful to once again join our neighbors for this beloved event that reminds us of the magic we can create when we come together."
According to the City of Phoenix website, the spirit of the holidays will be in full display, with Stacy Derstine, APS Vice President for External Affairs, noting the alignment between Make-A-Wish Arizona's mission and the yuletide season. "Every day, Make-A-Wish Arizona brightens the lives of children in our state," Derstine said, "Their unwavering commitment to granting magical wishes for children represents the spirit of the holidays – spreading joy, hope and a little extra sparkle in every life they touch."
Mayor Gallego shared similar sentiments, praising the parade as one of Phoenix's most cherished holiday traditions that "lights up our city with creativity, joy, and community spirit." Additionally, Gallego was quick to give a shout-out to the Parks and Recreation team for their dedication, ensuring Phoenix families can come together and let the season "glow." The city urges residents to join in the parade festivities, complete with lights, floats, and the community excitement that has become synonymous with the event over the years. More information, including route details and parking, is available on the City of Phoenix website.
About the main players: APS delivers electricity to over 1.4 million Arizona homes and businesses and is steering towards a resource mix that’s approximately 54% clean. On the other side, Make-A-Wish Arizona has been the beacon of hope for over 8,500 critically ill children in the local community since 1980, part of a broader network that has globally granted more than 615,000 wishes.
