Wishes Came True at the Wish Upon a Star: A Night of Hope and Wishes

On Friday, August 22, 2025, community members came together with W.A. Smith Financial Group for an unforgettable evening of generosity and hope at the Wish Upon a Star: A Night of Hope and Wishes event.

The inspiring annual fundraiser helped grant life-changing wishes for local children facing critical illnesses. Guests enjoyed an uplifting night that included dinner, an open bar, raffle items, a live auction, and a powerful wish reveal.

“All of this is possible because of the generosity of our community and our clients” said William “Bill” Smith, CEO and Founder of W.A. Smith Financial Group. “This event is one of the most meaningful things we do all year. Seeing the joy and hope on these children’s faces is a powerful reminder of what really matters. We’re grateful to everyone who joins us in making these wishes come true.”
To date, W.A. Smith Financial Group’s commitment to the Make-A-Wish mission has helped fund more than 100 wishes for children across Ohio — including surpassing the $1 million milestone in total funds raised as of last year. This year built on that impact, one heartfelt story at a time.
The event was made possible thanks, in part, to the generous support of Hope Sponsors: First Trust and the Topeka Community Foundation, along with many other community partners. Special thanks to Rob Powers, anchor from WEWS News 5 Cleveland, who provided opening remarks for the evening and helped inspire the room.

Over 180 people came together to raise $350,000 (or 35 wishes) in support of Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana. The highlight of the evening was hearing about two Wish Kids, Harper and J’ior and how their wishes impacted their journey.

Proceeds from the evening went directly toward granting more wishes through the Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana chapter.

About W.A. Smith Financial Group
W.A. Smith Financial Group is a holistic financial planning and investment management firm dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals and secure their future. Founded by William “Bill” Smith, RICP®, MRFC®, the firm is deeply committed to giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the lives of others. This commitment is exemplified by their annual Make-A-Wish charity event, which has raised over $1,000,000 net since 2017, granting more than 100 wishes to children facing critical illnesses. For more information, visit www.wasmithfinancial.com.

About Make-A-Wish® Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana
Make-A-Wish® OKI creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Founded in 1983, we have granted more than 22,000 wishes, and in fiscal year 2024, made 1,061 wishes come true. Make-A-Wish is more than wish granting, it’s a global movement of transforming lives through hope, and wishes need YOU. To learn more about how you can donate, volunteer, and share our mission, visit: oki.wish.org and follow us on social media @makeawishohkyin.