Helping Our Neighbors, One Wish at a Time

Every day, people in our communities face challenges that often go unseen. They may be our neighbors, coworkers, or even family members, quietly navigating hardships. At Choice Bank, we asked ourselves a simple but powerful question: How can we help?

That question sparked the creation of the Choice Bank Wishing Well in 2018. Rooted in our #PeopleFirst philosophy, this initiative was designed to uplift individuals and organizations in need, one wish at a time. Since its inception, the Wishing Well has granted dozens of heartfelt wishes, each one a testament to the strength and resilience of our communities.

Here are some of the most recent wishes we’ve had the honor of granting and the incredible impact they’ve made:

Rebuilding After Tragedy

When Heather and Ian Knox of Marshall, MN, lost their home to a devastating fire in February 2025, they were left with nothing but gratitude for their safety and a long road to rebuilding their home. Temporarily living in an apartment, the Knox family faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from scratch. Choice employee Kelli Kurth notified us of the Knox family’s situation, so the Wishing Well stepped in to provide a gift card for essential home items like bedding and curtains, helping them take the first steps toward creating a new home.

Creating Accessible Outdoor Spaces at Wilson Dam

Wilson Dam is a beloved local spot for fishing, playing, and gathering. But its aging wooden picnic table was no longer safe or accessible. With help from the Wishing Well, a new ADA-compliant picnic table will soon be installed, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Journey to Healing

Amelie Willits has been bravely battling juvenile arthritis and uveitis since a young age. With frequent trips to Fargo and Rochester for treatment, travel costs quickly added up. The Wishing Well provided $500 to help ease the financial burden on her family, allowing them to focus on what matters most: Amelie’s health.

Safe Transport for Survivors

Kedish House in Ellendale, ND, provides critical support to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. But with limited local housing options, transporting victims to safe locations, sometimes out of state, was a growing challenge. Thanks to the Wishing Well, Kedish House was able to purchase a reliable vehicle to ensure safe, secure transport for those in crisis.

Each wish granted by the Choice Bank Wishing Well is more than just a gift; it’s a message of hope, a show of solidarity, and a reminder that we’re all in this together. Whether it’s helping a family rebuild, making public spaces more inclusive, or supporting those facing medical or personal crises, the Wishing Well is a powerful example of what happens when we put people first. We’re proud to continue this journey, one wish at a time.

The Choice Bank Wishing Well is accepting wishes! Ready to cast yours? Visit choicewishingwell.com and let us know who you would like to help out in your community.