What We Do
We bring families undergoing treatment at Sanford Children’s hospital to the Iowa Great Lakes chain of lakes for 2 days of fun, completely FREE of charge! What’s included: lodging, meals, entertainment and loads of fun, all while connecting with other Sanford families going through treatment.
Our Story
The Secret to happiness is helping others! Jill Harms, the founder of the program and President of Blink Marketing, was serving on the volunteer Board of Directors at Arnolds Park Amusement Park and realized what a special place it was. It makes so many families happy. Although the Park itself is a non-profit, she also realized the Park could give back to the community. After a friend went through a very difficult time with her child on a “Make a Wish” trip, she realized what a perfect fit our amusement park could be for other families going through treatments who cannot make a long trip away from their providers and doctors. She made a call to Sanford Children’s hospital in Sioux Falls, SD and working with other community businesses, she rallied for their help in putting together a program. In 2013, Making Waves For Children was launched! In 2023, we celebrated our 10 year anniversary, taking one year off due to COVID-19. May our program continue to be a beacon of light for families in need, reminding us all of the profound impact that kindness and generosity can have on individuals and communities.
OUR PARTNERS
We’re thinkers, tinkerers, mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters – we’re honest people, and we appreciate honest design. Great brands mean great business, and our team offers all aspects of creative support to help you achieve and set new goals for your brand.
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves more than one million patients and 220,000 health plan members across 250,000 square miles.
Every day, a child’s life is forever changed by an injury or unexpected diagnosis. Our mission is to increase funds and awareness for your local children’s hospital and other Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. More than 10 million kids enter a children’s hospital like your local children’s hospital across North America every year.
EST. 2013
FROM THE FAMILIES
our generous
2023 SPONSORS
Iesha Toft • GrapeTree Medical Staffing • Boji Spudz • The Three Sons • Lakes Marketing and Print • Bank Midwest • Farmers Insurance • Allure & Co. • Godfather’s Pizza • Steve & Janine Huss