Tarson Pools & Spas, a family-owned business based in Syracuse, New York, operates under the motto “We make good times happen!” While its team has created good times for pool and spa owners for years, there is another group it aims to help: children participating in the Make-A-Wish program.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps fulfill wishes for critically ill children. Tarson Pools & Spas has partnered with the Central New York chapter of Make-A-Wish for the last 28 years after the current owner and CEO, Bob Tarson, Jr., took over the company from his father.
“Being a family-owned business, we know how important family time and the peace of mind that accompanies it really is,” says Allen Jerabeck, pool and spa specialist for Tarson. “For sponsored families working with Make-A-Wish, the pool or spa might be seen as the wish for the child, but really, it’s for the whole family. The parents get to see their child just being a kid, splashing and having fun with friends and siblings. The siblings of the wish recipient get to enjoy a fun day and pause the worry and concern. The effects of this local giving are so widespread and provide families years of memories.”
To help fulfill wishes, Tarson has donated and set up pools and spas for Wish recipients as well as installed swing sets and playgrounds. Tarson supports the organization with monetary contributions and has donation buckets at its retail locations. The company has even designed and created a parade float for the New York State Fair to spotlight a Wish recipient and their family.
The Make-A-Wish organization appreciates all the things Tarson does to support its work.
“Swimming pools and hot tubs are popular wishes, and Tarson has been instrumental in so many that we have granted,” says Diane Kuppermann, president and CEO of the Central New York Make-A-Wish chapter. “Not only do Bob and Robin Tarson extend generous discounts, they connect us with their contractors, actively engage as volunteers and help spread awareness by highlighting Make-A-Wish at local trade shows and exhibits. For over 20 years, we have been able to count on Tarson Pools & Spas to give hope to courageous kids.”
