As I sit here at my desk, surrounded by memories, I can’t help but reminisce about when my husband Mark and I first started this charity. All of these years have been amazing and when I think about what we’ve accomplished for so many children, all I can do is smile and say, “Wow!”
It’s been 13 glorious years since we founded Kids Wish Network in 1997. Since then, there have been no regrets, only accomplishments. As I often tell my children: “Never say you wish you could’ve, should’ve, would’ve done…just do it!” And we have. We’ve created a beautiful legacy not only for our family, but also for the thousands of families we’ve served over the years.
When Kids Wish Network began, our intent was not to be the biggest wish-granting organization, but to be the best at what we do. We endeavored to provide unique and important services to deserving children and their families that were not available anywhere else. Our programs positively impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of children every year.
Mark and I began to sense strongly that the work that had consumed us for the past 13 years was largely finished. With a lot of thought and consideration, Mark and I came to the decision to relinquish the “reins” of Kids Wish Network and retire. Through teamwork, tenacity and our entrepreneurial spirit, we surpassed our goals and wildest dreams in every way. We are gratified to have been able to touch the hearts of so many families, which is a feeling that most people will never be able to imagine. The irony is that making the dreams of others a reality fulfilled our own dreams.
We are now proud to introduce the new Executive Director of Kids Wish Network: Alicia Argiz-Lyons, who is ready, willing and able to carry on Kids Wish Network’s legacy of kindness. We also have a team of executive managers more than capable of rising to any challenge as well as a dedicated staff that includes an amazing amount of diverse talent certain to further the positive growth of the charity.
Embracing change and looking for the positives that are always present, but not always evident, is an essential part of life. Believe it or not, many of the important programs at Kids Wish Network were developed in response to changing conditions that many felt were not positive! In other words, “attitude often determines altitude.”
That being said, my husband and I are looking forward to enjoying the next chapter in our lives, grateful to have the opportunity to create new memories with our family and look back on all we’ve done with a smile. We also look forward to participating as volunteers for Kids Wish and members of the Board of Advisors for years to come. We’re so excited to see what’s up next for Kids Wish Network! Some people say that “the sky’s the limit,” but here at Kids Wish Network we know that our limits know no bounds.
Shelley Breiner
Founder
“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For indeed, that’s all who ever have.”
Margaret Mead
You are truly the “Best of the Best”…and you deserve to enjoy all that there is for you. I’m so happy to have worked with you and for you…You ARE/WERE the “Best Boss EVER”. You will be missed here but NEVER forgotten.
Best Always
D.
You’re making me cry
Thank you for everything and for giving me my start here at Kids Wish Network when I first came to the US.
Please know also that in my daily work I will always be thinking of why this wonderful organization is here and will always try to do the right thing for the charity. I am proud to work here and will always do my best to see that it’s legacy continues to grow and make you proud.
Miss you already xxx
Ashley
Shelley and Mark,
I personally want to wish you both the very best in your future endeavors. I have always enjoyed being a part of this organization and hope to be for many more years. I agree that change is good but not always easy but we all learn from change. I truly appreciate the kindness that you both have always showed to me and my family. Mileen adores you both and Barbara so very much! I hope we can always stay in touch.
You have a lot to be proud of with this organization and I hope it goes on for many years to come. I know you are having some ‘empty nest’ feelings with all the children on their own but actually these should be some of the best years of your lives! You’ve accomplished so much and your children are all happy and healthy and what more can you ask for.
Love,
Kathleen
Shelley,
Don’t write any more of these “uplifting” messages – you made me cry
Donna – – - will miss you very much.
Shelley and Mark,
When I read your letter it brought tears to my eyes, I have so much enjoyed being a part of your mission and working for the two of you. You have been a blessing to me in so many ways, I appreciate the opportunity to have been a part of your organization. I can only hope that I will be able to continue to be a part of it and to remain friends with people that have touched my life. Thank you for everything that you have done and I admire your accomplishments!!
Love,
Kathy
Shelley,
I really appreciate receiving this touching message about your family’s heartfelt experiences as you have built this spectacularly successful organization. Most importantly I am humbled and honored for the opportunity to work with you, Mark, the current board members, the KWN management team and employees in addition to many other supporters to carry on the legacy you established honoring your father’s memory.
I look forward to broadening the scope of programs benefiting the kids and families and continuing to build on your success so we can touch the lives of many more millions of children and families in the future!!!
Warmest wishes,
Alicia
That was beautifully written. Thanks for all you have done!
Margo
Shelley,
This is a very nice summary of your efforts. Not one single person, except you and Mark, will every fully understand and appreciate the tremendous effort it took to develop KWN.
It is now your time to enjoy your beautiful family, your lovely home in Tennessee and simply develop a new perspective on life. You are so compassionate about your work and the transition will at times be a challenge for you, but you deserve only the best.
May God always bless you, Mark, and your family.
Good luck always and Congratulations!
Sincerely,
Pat