Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tanya Sturm. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Tanya, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I was first introduced to wish granting in 1998 as a volunteer with an organization called Dream Makers. From the very beginning, I knew that bringing joy to children battling cancer was my purpose. Giving them something to smile about during such a difficult time deeply resonated with me.
In 2000, Dream Makers transitioned into Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee. I began as a Wish Coordinator and eventually became the Program Director. Over nearly 13 years with the organization, I had the honor of granting more than 1,100 wishes to children facing life-threatening illnesses.
In 2013, I founded Dreams and Wishes of Tennessee. Our mission is unique—we grant wishes to children who have relapsed from cancer and to young adults, ages 18 to 21, who have received a new cancer diagnosis. This is a group often overlooked by traditional wish-granting programs, but they are no less deserving of joy, hope, and something to look forward to.
Fast forward to 2025: we have granted wishes to more than 180 children and young adults across Tennessee. These wishes provide a powerful, joyful escape from the harsh reality of cancer. For many families, this is the last truly happy memory they share together. Tragically, more than 140 of the children we’ve served have since passed away—making every wish all the more meaningful.
My goal remains the same, to grant a wish to every eligible child in Tennessee. Every child deserves to smile, to dream, and to feel special—no matter their diagnosis is.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Dreams and Wishes of Tennessee grants wishes to children who have relapsed from cancer and to young adults, ages 18 to 21, who have received a new cancer diagnosis.
We currently have 21 eligible children in our pipeline waiting for a wish. The average wish cost is between $2,500 -$3,000.
Upcoming Events Supporting Dreams and Wishes of TN:
July – September
Washtopia Hermitage is collecting donations when you wash your car.
September (Date TBD)
Dutch Bros Coffee will host Buck for Kids Day at the following locations: Hermitage, Elm Hill Pike, Trinity Lane, and the new Mt. Juliet store. $1 from every drink sold will be donated to Dreams and Wishes of TN.
October 6
10th Annual Golfing for Dreams and Wishes
Join us for a fun-filled tournament at Hermitage Golf Course in support of our mission.
For details and registration, visit: www.DreamsandWishesofTN.org/Events
November 27 – online silent auction
https://www.32auctions.com/dreamsandwishes
Breakfast with Santa -date TBD
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
You need to be compassionate, have good networking skills and be extremely organized.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Join Us in Granting Wishes!
If you or your business would like to support children who have relapsed from cancer, please contact:
Tanya Sturm
615-243-3433
Tanya@DreamsandWishesofTN.org
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We are currently seeking:
*Event Sponsors for our upcoming golf tournament
*Silent Auction Items
*Raffle Giveaways
Your generosity directly helps make dreams come true for children facing the unimaginable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.DreamsandWishesofTN.org
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/DreamsandWishesofTN
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/DreamsandWishesofTN
- Youtube: Dreams and Wishes of Tennessee
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
