How WishSpark Works

We keep the process simple and youth-friendly. Here’s what happens when you share a wish with TAFYS:

Step 1

Share your wish—something fun, helpful, or inspiring!

Step 2

We post it to One Simple Wish so donors can see it.

Step 3

An awesome human makes it happen! Item ships.

Step 4

Celebrate! (Send thank‑you note and optional photo 💌)

Click to see none allowed items
  • Toys
  • Bikes
  • Furniture
  • Laptops/Tablets
  • Headphones/AirPods
  • Clothes
  • Printer
  • GoPro
  • Shoes
  • Blender
    • TVs

and much more!!!

  • Wishes with an original price that exceeds $425.
  • Wishes that require reimbursement to be fulfilled.
  • Wishes for Visa/Amex/Giftly and other Gift cards.
  • Wishes for checks made out to the child or child’s family (checks will only be filled directly to a vendor).
  • Wishes from Walmart, eBay, or other used item stores.
  • If you have questions about whether an item is allowable, please email hello@tafys.org.
  • You MUST submit a SEPERATE form for EACH wish item,

Ready to Submit a Wish?

If you’re a young person connected to TAFYS and impacted by foster care, you may be eligible to participate in WishSpark. A trusted adult, caseworker, or TAFYS staff can also help you submit.

Fill out the WishSpark Request Form

Use the form below to tell us about your wish, why it matters to you, and where items should be shipped. Please be as specific as you can – it helps donors understand your story and your dream.

Writing a Thank-You Note 💛

After your wish is granted, writing a short thank-you note helps the wish-granter know how their kindness made a difference for you.

How to Write Your Thank-You (2–3 Sentences)

  1. Say thank you for granting your wish.
  2. Name the item you received.
  3. Share why it matters or how it helps you.
  4. End with appreciation.

Examples:

Use these as inspiration — please write your own message in your own words. Review your APPROVED email so your thank-you does not sound like your request.

TV
Thank you for granting my wish for a TV. It helps me relax and feel more comfortable in my space. I’m very grateful for your kindness.

AirPods
Thank you for granting my wish for AirPods. They help me focus on schoolwork and enjoy music when I need a break. I really appreciate your support.

Laptop
Thank you for granting my wish for a laptop. It will help me with school and reaching my goals. I am thankful to have received this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in WishSpark?

WishSpark is designed for youth and young adults connected to TAFYS who have experienced foster care, kinship care, or related systems. In some cases, supportive adults may submit on behalf of a young person. If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible, contact us and we’ll talk it through.

What information do I need to provide?

We’ll ask for basic contact information, your wish details (specific item, size, color, link), and a short explanation of why this wish matters to you. We’ll also need a safe shipping address or pick-up plan.

Does submitting a wish guarantee it will be granted?

We wish we could say yes to every single wish, but we can’t promise that. All wishes go through a review process with TAFYS and One Simple Wish, and are then posted for donors to see. A wish is granted when a donor chooses it and funding is available.

Will my story or photo be shared publicly?

We respect your privacy. Some information (like biography) may be shared with donors on One Simple Wish, but you can choose how much you’re comfortable sharing. Photos are optional. We never post full names or identifying details without clear permission.

Is there a cost to me?

No. There is no cost to submit a wish or receive an item through WishSpark. Wishes are funded by generous donors through One Simple Wish.

What if my wish doesn’t fit the guidelines?

If your initial idea doesn’t fit One Simple Wish policies, we won’t just say “no.” A TAFYS team member will connect with you to brainstorm other options that still feel exciting and meaningful.

How do I know if my wish was approved or declined?

If your wish gets approved, you will receive an email with the subject line “Your wish was approved! Please be patient. Once your wish is granted/fulfilled, you will receive an email with the subject line “A wish is on the way! If your wish was declined/needs additional info, you will receive an email with the subject line: “Your wish was Declined/Needs Additional Information“.

How long does it take to receive my item?

Timelines can vary. Once a donor selects your wish, most items arrive within a few weeks (45 to 90 days), depending on shipping and availability. We’ll keep you updated as we receive information from One Simple Wish.

Where can I get an update on my wish?

Unfortunately, TAFYS cannot provide tracking numbers or update wish statuses beyond the emails saying “Your wish was approved!” and “A wish is on the way!” OSW and TAFYS are not responsible for any lost, stolen, or misplaced wishes.

What happens when my item arrives?

TAFYS requires that wish recipients notify us within 3 days after receiving the item and to send a quick thank-you message to the donor. We also encourage you to send us a photo of how you are using your wish (you can send it even after 3 days). For example, if you get a bike, you can send us a photo of you riding it. If you have a laptop, consider sharing a picture of yourself studying or at school with it.

While a photo isn’t necessary, sending a thank-you message is. You can do this by replying to the “A wish is on the way!” email or by emailing youth@tafys.org as soon as you receive your wish. Not doing so will prevent you from submitting wishes in the future.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

You can reach the TAFYS team at youth@tafys.org (if a person with lived experience) or hello@tafys.org if a supportive adult or the general public. Please include “WishSpark Question” in the subject line so we can route your message quickly.

About our partnership with One Simple Wish:
TAFYS is proud to serve as a community partner of One Simple Wish. Through this partnership, we’re able to connect local youth wishes with a national community of donors who love to spread love, hope, and joy. All wish funding and purchasing is handled through One Simple Wish, while TAFYS focuses on building relationships, supporting youth through the process, and celebrating every spark of joy that follows.