In 2024, Executive Director, Noel Ferguson noted Thursday’s Child began with the goal of bringing joy to children suffering a health crisis. She said, “At the time, there were no wish-granting organizations interested in serving southwest and south-central Wisconsin, but there were children, and their families, who needed something to look forward to other than constant medical worries”.

Since 1984, Thursday’s Child has granted thousands of wishes for children facing difficult illnesses. They also provide support for their families. For Capitol Boat Club Owners, Ron and Sandy Cowan, the chance to provide a medically fragile child with a rest from the challenges of their illness was something they could help with. Sandy said, “As a mother and nurse, play is important for a child. Being out on the boat in the water provides children a chance to be curious, explore, and have fun just being a kid with their family”.  Our family referrals will be provided by social workers working at American Family Children’s Hospital. Ms. Ferguson reports they have identified several families who would benefit from the program.