It takes the help of a lot of people and organizations to make dreams come true. Southwest Airlines is a part of that cause, partnering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation since 2011.
Sometimes the child’s flight is the first part of the wish. Southwest Airlines makes sure to spread the love and make every child and their family feel special.
“It was so much fun. It felt like I was flying,” said Annabeth Smith, Wish Kid.
The fun for Wish Kids does not just start at the airport or in the plane. Southwest Airlines starts planning well before the trip even happens.
“What usually happens first is we have an ambassador that usually gets with me about a week before they’re traveling. I get the child’s name, how many are in their family and some of the child’s favorite things,” said Ashly Ayers with Southwest Airlines.
For many families, it is their first time flying, so Southwest Airlines employees make sure the process is as easy as possible, from baggage check to landing.
“So being able to see these kids’ faces when they get to fly for the first time. They’re getting to go to Disney World, and they get to experience something they’ve never had a chance to experience. It’s literally a life-changing experience for everyone involved,” said Ayers.
If you think employees help check the kids in then go on with their regular day, you’re wrong. They put together goody bags and even get to know the kids a bit.
“It’s got snacks and books, coloring books and usually a blanket or stuffed animal. When they get to the airport to check in, we greet them with that goody bag,” said Ayers.
All that hard work is not lost on Wish families.
“They were waiting for us. So, they rushed us out of there, bought the kids ice cream — basically a shopping spree — got us anything we wanted.” said Shawn Smith, Annabeth’s dad.
The cherry on top of the ice cream? Getting a chance to meet the pilots and hang out in the cockpit.
“We usually do let them board first. They’re able to go into the cockpit and meet the captain. If the child is able, they’ll get to sit in the captain’s chair and take pictures. You know we try to give them a first-class experience the entire trip that we’re a part of,” said Ayers.
It’s an experience Annabeth will not forget.
“We even got to sit in the front, but we didn’t touch any buttons. But, we did touch the microphones, but I didn’t say anything,” said Annabeth.
The trip with Southwest Airlines was something Annabeth’s parents never expected. They say it was the perfect start and ending to their wish trip.
“We had a great time. Really great for the kids. They took care of everything. Met us everywhere. There was nothing they didn’t do for us it was perfect,” said Barbara Smith, Annabeth’s mom.
Southwest Airlines has donated more than 15,000 tickets to the foundation, valued at more than $6 million. Employees often even donate their flights to kids.
If you’d like to get involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, just give them a call at 806-785-9474.
