2024 Top-Rated Nonprofit

The Marty Lyons Foundation, Inc.

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Health, Patient & Family Support

Mission: The Marty Lyons Foundation (MLF) was established in 1982 to fulfill the wishes of children ages three (3) to seventeen (17) who have been diagnosed with a terminal or life-threatening illness. We grant wishes today for a better tomorrow.

Community Stories

58 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

ASans General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/09/2024

An amazing foundation that grants wishes for children with terminal or life threatening illnesses.

AnnaChristain Donor

Rating: 5

08/08/2024

This organization does amazing things for not only the people it serves, but for the people that serve it. I have been a proud supporter over the years and love watching not only support and foundation that these families need, but the time and dedication that the volunteers put in to their service work. The Marty Lyons Foundation is great resource especially in the Carolina Region with Lynne D'Eramo!

Yarrow General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/07/2024

The Marty Lyons Foundation is such a fantastic organization! This extraordinary group of caring volunteers work diligently to create life changing moments and lasting memories for those who need it most.

Over the years, I've watched one of their volunteers, Lynne D'Eramo, host delightful fundraisers and coordinate joyful experiences for child after child. I've been so impressed with her dedication, persistence, and determination. It is evident that she cares deeply for every child and family.

I am grateful to Lynne and the Marty Lyons Foundation for their efforts. Thank you for seeding joy in the world.

jweber1212 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/07/2024

The work that Marty, the team at MLF, the volunteers, and the young professionals do is truly inspiring. I love seeing every wish story and how uplifting it is for the children and their families. What an amazing foundation!

denisbarryfoundation Board Member

Rating: 5

08/05/2024

I have been involved with the foundation for about 10 years. I have served on the board of directors for 8 yrs. The passion and drive to continue their mission for 42 years is something to be admired. The staff is second to none and i cant say enough about their compassion and commitment to the foundation. I’m proud to be involved and serve at such a wonderful foundation.

Previous Stories

Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

I have attended many fundraisers for the Marty Lyons foundation through the years. The work they do with the children is so amazing. Giving terminally sick children something to remember and smile about. Marty is so compassionate and his commitment to the children and the foundation is amazing.

People9300 Board Member

Rating: 5

08/05/2024

Marty Lyons Foundation has touched my life for the last few years. I am proud to be know and be part of this community of angels who make a better life for the kids and families of MLF. The world needs more non profits like this one. - Adam Forgione

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

Marty Lyons Foundation is in a league of its own. Led by Marty himself, the inspiration from him trickles down into every board member, staff member, volunteer, and donor. The biggest differentiator with this organization is that it grants 2nd wishes so they child and their family can create memories that last forever. The org partners with other like-minded orgs to help support the family through their struggles. Marty repeats a quote often that says, "The real winners in the game of life are those who give of themselves, so others can grow. Every time I hear Marty say this, my heart melts because he really lives this philosophy. this year, Marty Lyons Foundation celebrates 40 years of granting wishes and changing lives for the better. I am so proud to be connected to this foundation in so many ways.

GregWagner Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/04/2024

The Marty Lyons Foundation is a family, a group of passionate empathetic people who want to give back and improve the lives of others. Volunteers always go the extra mile for our kids, for the families and those in need. Proud to call these fellow volunteers my extended family.

Limolady Donor

Rating: 5

08/02/2024

The Marty Lyons Foundation is a truly worthy organization that grants wishes to children who have been diagnosed with life threatening illnesses or worse. I am proud to support, fundraise and volunteer for this organization who work all year around to not only make a child's dream come true, but also support the families who are the sole caregivers. It breaks my heart to see parents outlive their children, however the MLF does its best to be there when it counts.

Previous Stories

Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/19/2023

I have been a volunteer as well as a proud supporter of the Marty Lyons Foundation. They have granted wishes for children who otherwise would not have the opportunity for some joy in their lives while suffering from rare diseases. I hope more sponsors get involved and help this very worthy cause.

GSBdrexel Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/02/2024

The Marty Lyons Foundation is truly a beacon of hope. And we are proud to be working with them to help them do what they do best.
What sets the Marty Lyons Foundation apart is their unwavering commitment to the children and families they serve. They understand the challenges faced by families dealing with serious illness and work tirelessly to provide joy and respite during difficult times.
If you are looking for an organization that truly makes a positive difference in the world, look no further than the Marty Lyons Foundation. They are nothing short of amazing!

BM.MLF Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/02/2024

The Marty Lyons Foundation is truly one of a kind. Not only do they grant wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses, but they also consider SECOND wishes for the same children depending on circumstance. You won't find many other wish granting organizations that offer that. They go above and beyond to provide the best experience for their wish families. The team themselves are a small group of hardworking individuals. As someone who has been working with them for a short period of time, it is extremely apparent how much they care for their wish families, and how much the foundation has touched them all in different ways. It has truly been an incredible experience to aid in granting wishes, and I'm grateful for MLF for the opportunity to do so.

e6574 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/02/2024

Fantastic experiences volunteering with this organization! Everyone on the team comes from various walks of life and is brought so tight together by their passion for this mission. Looking forward to seeing them complete even more wishes this year.

wischusen Donor

Rating: 5

08/01/2024

There is no organization in America doing better work or that is more worth your time or dollars than the MLF!!!

Jets1979 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

As a Jets team household, my husband has been a fan for over 47 years. His most favorite player is Marty Lyons. Not just for his talent on the field but for his character and kindness off the field as well.
Recently I met Marty at the hall of Fame induction.
After learning more about Marty and how he has contributed to others less fortunate for so many years I was intrigued and wanted to get involved. This past Nov 2nd I took part in the 2nd annual Gala for the Marty Lyons Foundation and it was wonderful. The people I worked alongside and met were amazing. They have the same tenacity and drive for the benefit that Marty does. It was like a small family getting together for the joy of others. There is nothing better. I will continue to give my time and myself to this foundation!!
Samantha Sosnik

GJB09 Donor

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

Always amazed at not only every Marty Lyons event but on how much they accomplish every year. Such an important organization that provides so much needed help.

tmz89 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

I love how much I see Marty Lyons not only helping grant wishes, but using their platform to bring awareness and help their communities. Such a wholesome, wonderful organization that really goes above and beyond!

Jathanas14 Donor

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

The Marty Lyons Foundation surpass expectations on all of there wishes. Always on call! They have the biggest hearts and pay attention to every detail that goes into a wish.

cmedina430 Donor

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

A wonderful and friendly staff with an amazing mission!

jpmny87 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

Great foundation, excellent staff, brought us joy even in such hard times.

krystalmonroy Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

The Marty Lyons Foundation exceeds in fulfilling their mission to grant wishes to critically ill children. They are dedicated to the families that they serve, committed to utilizing every bit of funding they receive to create magic, and exude compassion.

ShannonPerkins General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/21/2023

The Marty Lyons Foundation is a non-profit organization that leads with sincerity and integrity. The people who run this foundation are genuinely invested and passionate about every moving part that reaches out to those in need. I have attended many MLF events, and I have always been left feeling like a full contributor and wanting to help more.

AnnaFitz Donor

Rating: 5

07/19/2023

I have worked with this group for about a year and it is wonderful organization. It is a family that is looking out for the kids that need a pick me up. I will continue to support them as long as I can and wish them all nothing but the best, since they do so much for others.

Helpingpeople General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/18/2023



The Marty Lyons Foundation does an incredible job for incredible people.

sandyteach Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/18/2023

I believe that the Marty Lyons Foundation is a wonderful foundation and organization that help children make dreams come true. The people at the foundation work like beavers so that the child and their family forget their problems so that a wish will come true....what else can one say.
Thank you for being here for children or young adults who have wishes and needs that become reality.

mavellino22 Board Member

Rating: 5

07/18/2023

The Marty Lyons Foundation grants wishes to children with life threatening and terminal illness. I'm a Board Member and this charity has a special place in my heart. Being able to provide lifelong memories to families that need them most is a priceless experience.

The Board and Staff authentically care about the wish families and really make a difference. I endorse this organization fully and am proud to be a part of it!

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/25/2022

I've had the pleasure of being a board member of the Marty Lyons Foundation since 2020. I've been part of other wonderful charitable organizations as well, but none are quite like the Marty Lyons Foundation. Everyone involved is purely motivated by the mission to grant wishes to children who need them most. Marty Lyons himself is the kindest and most authentic individual I've ever met. Every decision made by the board comes from a place of empathy and compassion to these children and their families. I consider it a privilege to serve this foundation.

JZ090873 Donor

Rating: 5

10/27/2022

I have attended MLF fundraisers and have seen first hand how hard everyone works to have a successful event. MLF was still able to grant wishes during Covid! That is dedication to be appreciated and admired. God Bless this wonderful organization!

Previous Stories

Donor

Rating: 5

07/08/2020

Wonderful organization. They work so hard to fulfill wishes, the board members, right on down to all the volunteers. I have witnessed their hard work and dedication at many events I have attended. God Bless All of them and the children they grant wishes.

JMNitti Board Member

Rating: 5

10/26/2022

I’ve been involved with the Marty Lyons Foundation since I was a kid, volunteering at the annual golf outing. Since 2021, I’ve been on the board and since 2017, I’ve been on the Young Professionals board. It’s a first-class organization that I’m proud to be a part of, and has granted over 8,000 wishes for chronically and terminally ill children between the ages of 3-17 since its inception in the 1980s. Marty Lyons is a very special person, and to see the joy these wishes bring to the children and their families drives home the importance of his organization more than words ever could.

CraigFels Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2022

Don't let the regional locations and small team fool you. The Marty Lyons Foundation has been granting wishes to sick children throughout the U.S. for over 40 years! Thousands and thousands of children in need have had their "wishes" granted through the hard work and dedication of Marty, and the entire team. Selfless, passionate, and grateful are a few words that come to mind when describing the team behind the Marty Lyons Foundation. As a donor and volunteer, I have had the pleasure of being involved and supporting the mission for almost 15 years. I cannot think of a better way to support children, who are all dealing with terrible medical hardships, than to support the Marty Lyons Foundation.

angelapugni Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2022

We have been donating to Marty Lyons Foundation for a few years now. What a great organization and staff !! It always about the children, their families and building priceless memories while putting a smile on their faces. Keep it going, I know we will. The Pugni's

johnbrogle Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2022

Marty, staff and the chapters across the nation go above and beyond to help children in need of a wish. The selfless manner by which The Marty Lyons Foundation operates is truly amazing. I've seen multiple wishes granted by the Florida Chapter over the years. The hours the volunteers put in, followed by the smiles on kids faces is awesome to see!

msmarples1 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/25/2022

There is no greater organization than the Marty Lyons Foundation. It is full of love & dedication- every single member of its team striving to bring happiness to children & their families. Marty, his staff & his supporters are the most warm-hearted people I have had the opportunity to get to know.
Thank you to the Marty Lyons Foundation for 40 years of making a positive impact on this world ♥️

gsetto Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/25/2022

Marty Lyons has devoted his life to helping terminally and seriously ill children, and their families. He is personally involved, and is deeply invested in the cause. His foundation accomplishes amazing things with a very small, but very talented staff, some incredibly dedicated volunteers, and a team of celebrities that support the events. My wife and I volunteer whenever we can, and the events are always moving and inspiring. This organization has a clear mission, and they are remarkably driven to do everything that they can for the unfortunate children and families that benefit from the Foundation's services. If I could donate time or money to only one charity, this would be the one.

cmcloughlin Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

Proud of being part of this organization and really seeing all the good things they have done for families with critically ill children. The team is so hard working and passionate about the mission.

linzlinz Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

One thing about the Marty Lyons Foundation that I love is that you can trust that any donation you make is used with careful consideration and to the best advantage of the wish recipients. I have had the privilege to see first hand the impact this foundation has on not only the wish children but also on their families. The good this organization does cannot be overstated. If you’re looking for a wonderful, solid, long-standing group to support, you found it!

Rocbtm Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

MLF is genuinely the most heart felt nonprofit I have ever been a part of. From the top down you understand and feel the love throughout the organization. You can rest assured that any donation big or small will be given straight to the cause.
Seeing the smiles on the wish families faces and the tears running off the chins of the volunteers tell the story.

zfranzese Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

My foundation has donated the proceeds of our fundraiser for over 25 years. They make a concerted effort to help us before the event with raffles prizes, attendees, promotion, etc, and they utilize our donations to 'wish children' every year.

This is a natch made in heaven God Bless the Marty Lyons Foundation!

mb1269 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

Sitting on the board for this nonprofit is as inspiring as it gets. The mission of the foundation touches the heart in such a caring way. Marty’s leadership comes through as we look to make kids wishes come to a reality. I consider myself honored to be a Part of it.

pacmanpete Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

This foundation grants wishes of children who are diagnosed with terminal or life threatening illnesses and probably the only charity that will do a 2nd wish if child has a relapse. It has been doing this since 1982. Also, 92 to 93 cents out of every dollar goes towards the cost of the wish. Marty Lyons (former Jets defensive lineman) founded the foundation and does not just lend his name to it, but is hands on, and gets to know many of the wish recipients. This is an extremely wonderful and worthwhile charity to donate to and/or volunteer your time.

knw118 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

This foundation is all about the children! Marty and the entire staff at The Marty Lyons Foundation loves each and every child that receives a wish. Everything is done with heart and soul making for the most positive, wonderful experience for the wish child and their family!!

jnitti Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

This charity is the best because of the passion of all involved to help the children. That includes Marty himself, the entire board, and all the volunteers. So much of the money goes towards the children and helps them feel recognized and important, which help them combat their illnesses.

1

CPRgreat123 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

The Marty Lyons Foundation staff, board, leadership and volunteers are committed to the mission of granting wishes for children with life-threatening or terminal illness. I have watched the staff, and Marty Lyons himself, go above and beyond for families. They truly care deeply for all the families who are experiencing unspeakable challenges and heartbreaking moments. The memories the Foundation helps to create for children and families are priceless.

mmiller2730 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

I recently have joined the foundation to help with medical reviews. I have been so impressed by the teams commitment to supporting children and giving the opportunity to build life long memories.

SUNationEnergy Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

There are few people that inspire me. Marty Lyons and his commitment embody all that is good in this world. As someone who also dedicates his time to help, to see the end results of the commitment from this group is astounding. Marty never gives up, never turns away and never say's "It can't be done". The kids and families have SOOOO much on their plates, The MLF gives them a chance to breathe, perhaps smile and just enjoy a moment through the hardship.

Carmenfichtner Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/21/2020

I've been a volunteer with the MLF for a little over 3 years now and find it has been a very exhilarating and emotional experience. The big difference between MLF and other charity organizations that I have seen is that Marty is so wholeheartedly, sincerely and emotionally dedicated and always focuses on the children and family needs as well as their wishes. Marty also has a dedicated group of personnel.
My first wish child was an emotional roller coaster ride for me. Ultimately it was a gratifying experience that ended with a happy situation. My wish child was bed ridden and we couldn't participate in a destination vacation so the family chose a bedroom upgrade to better support the childs care and needs. The entire process was successful and it was a pleasure working with MLF, Bob's Furniture Store and the wish child family. Besides being bed ridden, my wish child was also blind. Although he could not see the transformation, he was extremely excited from our emotional enthusiasm throughout the entire process.
The MLF charity events are also very rewarding and successful. Participating in these events I could see Marty and his staff were very dedicated and focused on the needs of the children. I had the opportunity to work with and meet many committed persons which has inspired me to do more with my life and stay committed myself in participating in this very dedicated and worthwhile organization.
This experience has opened my eyes and heart to be more grateful for what we have and make the effort to help those children and families that have special needs. I look forward to the next charity event and having the opportunity to work with Marty and his team.
Carmen D Fichtner

Mhauff11 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/08/2020

The Marty Lyons Foundation is one of the better foundations I have seen on social media. Even during these Covid times, the foundation is still working hard and post updates.

FishNut Donor

Rating: 5

07/08/2020

I want to commend Marty Lyons Foundation for theIt outstanding efforts and support of children’s special wishes.
The staff and volunteers are tireless in their work with fund raising events, golf outings and tournaments to achieve their financial goals to support deserving children.
I participate whenever I can and would urge everyone to help as well.

1

JackRobert Donor

Rating: 5

06/29/2020

I learned about this program from an employee, Kenny Zore. I think it’s a wonderful charitable organization And I love the wishes it grants to children. I my self signed up for Amazon Smile so anytime i make a purchase a percentage goes to the Marty Lyons Foundation. The first time i got a statement showing how much went to the foundation due to my purchases made happy that i was helping towards granting a wish.
Keep up the good work Marty Lyons Foundation !!

1

ClaudiaK Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/27/2020

The Marty Lyons foundation is an amazing foundation. The wishes they grant help put  smiles on the faces of sick children. The people that run the foundation are caring and friendly.

1

Fluke1994 Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/27/2020

An incredible foundation that does everything they can to help kids!!! Great people, great foundation!

1

kris8208 Donor

Rating: 5

06/24/2020

I have watched the wonderful work this foundation has done for terminally ill kids and it just warms my heart. Gives them an opportunity to enjoy life in the mist of their bleak reality. Keep up the good work and a special kudos to Ken Zore who does an outstanding job!

1

vaccardi General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/18/2020

I've always been aware of the Marty Lyons Foundation because of Marty's work as a radio color analyst for the New York Jets and being a part of the Boomer Esiason Foundation annual All-Star football game the Empire Challenge. Since, the organization and its board made the decision to bring on the Director of Development it has created more awareness of what the mission of the foundation is and how they fulfill their mission by the money they raise. The foundation also has more of a social media presence and is continuing to build relationships with people and corporations to grow in its fundraising to then provide more wishes.

1

emischner Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/18/2020

The Marty Lyons Foundation is a great foundation and I recommend everyone support it! Its mission to grant wishes today for a better tomorrow, really stands out in everything the foundation does. It brings many smiles to children's faces and gives them the strength to hope.

Marty and staff are a big part of what makes the foundation successful. With their kindness, passion and big hearts, they truly make wishes come true.

1

Tricia Delp I. Donor

Rating: 5

06/18/2020

Amazing nonprofit helping families with children who are seriously ill get their wishes granted. THe stories are both heartbreaking and uplfting.

1

lizh321 Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/18/2020

I have been a volunteer for a few years now and the Marty Lyons Foundation is great!

They grant so many wishes for children in need and they are fiscally responsible with their funds.

They are truly a class act!

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