Cardiff-based charity Dreams and Wishes has been named as one of ten finalists in the nationwide Selco Community Heroes campaign, putting the volunteer-run organisation in the running to win a top prize of £10,000.
Dreams and Wishes is an award-winning charity dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families by making lifelong dreams and wishes come true. Since its founding in 2011, the charity has granted thousands of wishes, giving families precious moments of joy in very difficult times.
“We set out to create magical and uplifting moments at a time when families need hope more than ever,” said Paris Collingbourne, board member at Dreams and Wishes. “From delivering iPads to hospital wards within hours, to organising once-in-a-lifetime trips, parties or meet-and-greets with famous faces, every day is about making sure a child smiles. Every penny raised goes directly to making dreams and wishes come true.”
After winning £1,000 worth of building materials in the regional round of the campaign, the charity used the funds to develop and improve its Celebration of Life Garden at Heath Park in Cardiff. The space provides a peaceful, uplifting environment for families in extremely difficult circumstances.
“The garden features cherry blossom trees planted in memory of children supported by the charity,” added Paris. “Each tree represents extraordinary courage. It’s our way of honouring them and offering families a peaceful place to reflect and feel connected.”
Dreams and Wishes now moves forward to the national finals of the Selco Community Heroes campaign, where top prizes of £10,000, £5,000 and £2,500 will be awarded.
Paris said:
“Winning £10,000 would be truly transformational. It would allow us to expand the Celebration of Life Garden even further – creating more comforting spaces for families and hospital staff – and it would help us grant even more wishes for seriously ill children. From trips to the House of Commons, West Midlands Safari Park or Harry Potter Studios, to creating magical moments for families during their most challenging times, this support would help us bring even more smiles to even more faces.”
Simon Humpage, Head of Multi Channel Marketing from Selco Builders Warehouse, said:
“Dreams and Wishes’ dedication to making unforgettable memories for children who deserve it the most, is truly inspiring. The impact they have on families and the wider community is wonderful; we are proud to support their work.”
The public can vote for their favourite community hero until 14 December, with the winner announced in January 2026.
