SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Augustana's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) presented a check earlier this week to Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana, covering fundraising efforts over the last two years. A total of $7,721 was raised to support Make-A-Wish's mission of creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

SAAC members raise funds through treat bag initiatives twice a year, engaging their families to support Make-A-Wish while providing student-athletes at Augustana a special gift from their families. 

"We're so proud to work with Make-A-Wish and assist in their efforts to create amazing experiences for kids in need," said outgoing SAAC President, and women's tennis student-athlete, Rebecca Falkner.

"We are deeply grateful for these generous student athletes who give selflessly of their time and talents to support wishes," said Sue Salter, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana. "Our partnership with Augustana athletics is strong and proud.  It's incredible to see these students pouring their hearts into creating hope and joy for kids when they need it most." 

As part of NCAA Division II Athletics, Augustana University has been a proud supporter of Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana for many years. Besides raising funds, SAAC members have also participated & planned wish "reveals" in recent years at Viking basketball doubleheaders. Nationally, NCAA Division II Athletics partners with Make-A-Wish chapters across the country, donating more than 6.2 million dollars since the partnership began in 2003 and helping to grant over 740 wishes. 

"We're excited to continue this impactful initiative next year and fundraising to help grant more wishes in South Dakota" added incoming SAAC President, and women's golf student-athlete, Katherine Asklund. 

About Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We seek to bring every eligible child's wish to life because every child deserves a childhood. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight their illness.  Our chapter has granted more than 2,200 wishes for children in the local community. Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and more than 30,000 volunteers, Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana and 58 other chapters throughout the U.S. have granted more than 340,000 wishes nationwide. For more information about Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana, visit wish.org/sdmt.