17-year-old Julia is an exceptional teenager with one wish — to give back to her community. What makes this request so special is that Julia could have wished to go anywhere, to meet anyone, or to have anything her heart desired; Julia chose to give — to use her wish, granted by Make-A-Wish, to create lasting, life-changing impact for local families through Habitat for Humanity.

A senior at Mission Hills High School in San Marcos, Julia plays on the varsity volleyball team, and has been named MVP two years in a row. She visited the Dominican Republic last summer to build homes for families in need, and was immediately hooked on giving back. She had plans to make a similar trip again this year, but, in November, was diagnosed with cancer that keeps her close to home for treatment.

Make-A-Wish and Habitat for Humanity are coming together to make this inspiring young girl’s wish come true. Habitat has created a unique build experience for Julia’s friends and family, where they will frame a Habitat home and build playhouses for children in need.

“We are truly humbled and inspired by Julia and her wish to give,” said San Diego Habitat for Humanity President and CEO, Lori Holt Pfeiler. “She has such a generous spirit, and it makes us all want to give even more.”

When asked about what moved her to make this wish, Julia responded, “I just want to help as many people as possible.”