Across Texas—and beyond—young people facing critical illness or the loss of loved ones are finding healing and hope through nature. Higher Calling Wildlife, founded by conservationist and Texas Fish & Game Editor-In-Chief Chester Moore, runs the award-winning Wild Wishes® program, granting wildlife encounters to children and teens.
These encounters aren’t limited to the Texas coast. Wild Wishes has created experiences all across Texas, as well as in Colorado, Wyoming, Florida, Tennessee, and Arkansas. Each event gives kids a chance to connect deeply with wildlife and conservation in their own communities and in wild places far from home.
Watch the 10-minute documentary here.
Participants aren’t just observers—they become storytellers and advocates. Teens are mentored in photography, video, podcasting, and writing so they can share what they learn about species like sharks, sea turtles, bison, and native fish. These encounters are more than educational. For many, they are life-changing, offering purpose and confidence while building the next generation of conservation leaders.
From snorkeling with sharks at the Texas State Aquarium to learning about elk in the Rockies, or assisting in habitat work in the South, these young people experience firsthand the value of wildlife stewardship. Their stories are even featured in a short documentary, showing how powerful these moments can be.
Each reminder is clear: when young people are given a chance to connect deeply with nature, they not only find healing—they find a calling to protect it.
A Call to Action
Right now, the Wild Wishes program is just 12 children away from reaching a remarkable milestone—granting wishes to 300 young people by the end of this year. You can help make that dream a reality.
Every donation, no matter the size, goes directly toward creating unforgettable experiences for these kids, giving them both joy and purpose. Please consider supporting the Wild Wishes Fund today at this link. Together, we can reach 300 and beyond—changing lives through the healing power of wildlife.