As a seventeen year old high school student, Jenny King Williams recognized an unmet need in her Rutherford County, TN community. Underprivileged children needed someone to celebrate their birthdays. Many philanthropic organizations existed in the area to provide for the wants and needs of these children at Christmas time, but there were none that fulfilled the children's wishes on their birthdays, another occasion when their parents and caregivers would likely need charitable assistance. Jenny felt that God was directing her life in a new direction and believed that the people of Rutherford County would willingly support a cause that allowed them to express their generosity throughout the year and celebrate with children in need.In 2002, Candle Wishes was established by Jenny to share the love of Jesus Christ while fulfilling the wishes and needs of underprivileged Rutherford County children on their birthdays. With the support of individuals, businesses, churches, and civic groups, Candle Wishes was able to grant the birthday wishes of 375 children in 2003. Currently, Candle Wishes serves approximately 700 children each year in Rutherford County, Tennessee.