Our Mission and History

Our Mission and History

OUR MISSION:

The Mission of the Marty Lyons Foundation is to fulfill the wishes of children ages three (3) to seventeen (17) who have been diagnosed as having terminal or life-threatening illnesses. We are unique in that we will grant a second wish to a deserving child.

OUR HISTORY:

In March 1982, Marty Lyons experienced life’s extremes in just six days: the birth of his first son, the sudden loss of his father, and the passing of a young boy he mentored. These events inspired him to create the Marty Lyons Foundation, with a mission to bring joy to critically ill children. What began with a small group of 6 people on Long Island has grown into a national organization with 11 chapters across 14 states, granting over 8,500 wishes and raising over $43 million.

The foundation grants wishes that bring joy and comfort to children facing severe medical challenges. From Disney vacations to meeting sports heroes, these experiences not only enrich the lives of the children but also provide comfort to their families. The foundation’s work is powered by the dedication of volunteers, the generosity of sponsors, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact. Every wish granted brings hope and joy to a child in need, making a lasting difference in their lives.

~ WE GRANT WISHES TODAY FOR A BETTER TOMORROW ~

8,500+ wishes granted as of July 2024

76 cents!!! Nearly 76 cents of every dollar goes towards program services