FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) designs programs that motivate K-12 students to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The organization’s mentor-based programs include the FIRST Lego League, which uses team robotics activities and competitions to inspire students.

“Over the years I’ve seen what a difference FIRST participation makes for students and I continue to be inspired by their teamwork and problem solving,” Hale said. “Through FIRST we are engaging students in science and technology in a way that will stay with them forever and have a direct impact on their education and careers.”

Greg Hale has volunteered with FIRST for 19 years, serving on the FIRST advisory board and helping to run and judge events in Orlando and other locations and serving as master of ceremony for the annual regional competition every year since it began at Kennedy Space Center. The competition now is held at the University of Central Florida.

Greg leads a global team that keeps Disney on the leading edge of theme park safety, accessibility for guests with disabilities, and technology advancements.

Entering its 30^th year, the Disney Dreamers & Doers program recognizes students who have a caring spirit, consistently demonstrate outstanding character and lead by example. The group of students receiving the Shining Star distinction includes a third grader who organized several food collection drives; a sixth grader who used social media to find homes for rescued animals and a high school senior who volunteered 1,350 hours helping people in need.

“We all know dreamers and we all know doers,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “What makes these students so outstanding – true Shining Stars – is that they are dreamers who take positive steps to make their dreams a reality. They are changing our communities and our world, providing inspiration to their peers and giving us hope for a brighter future.”

Approximately 400 students were chosen by their schools as 2013 Disney Dreamer & Doer. From that group, a panel of judges selected the Shining Stars from elementary, middle and high schools in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Polk counties as well as the Florida Virtual School.

“Having a Disney Dreamer & Doer as well as a Shining Star is a proud moment for Timber Creek High School,” said Gabriel Berrio, principal of the school. “It adds to our excitement and to the pride we already have for our students and our community.”

Disney Dreamers & Doers Shining Stars receive a Mickey Mouse statue known as a “Mousecar,” a gold medallion and annual theme park passes for themselves and their immediate family.

The 2013 Disney Dreamers & Doers Shining Stars are:

 Orange County

• West Creek Elementary School – Robert Sena
• Orangewood Christian Middle School – Nicholas Christian Reed
• Timber Creek High School -Jessica Velázquez

Osceola County

• St. Cloud Elementary School – Angelika Pabón
• Trinity Lutheran – Rebecca Dupuis
• Celebration High School – Jaime Kaplan-Perico

Seminole County

• Lake Mary Elementary School – Mary Tracy
• Annunciation Catholic Academy – Hannah Veigle
• The Master’s Academy – Kasen Raines

Lake County

• Umatilla Elementary School – Annagrace Hall
• Eustis Middle School – Camryn Rivers
• South Lake High School – Heather LeBlanc

Polk County

• Auburndale Central Elementary School – Jennifer Morales
• Lawton Chiles Middle Academy – Holt Russell
• All Saints Academy – Maxwell Hewett

 Florida Virtual School

• Bailey Ansbaugh

To date, more than 12,400 students have been recognized as Disney Dreamers & Doers. The program is just one of the ways that Walt Disney World Resort actively supports education in Central Florida. In the past year, Disney’s involvement has included Disney Helping Kids Shine grants for local school districts and early learning coalitions, more than 18,000 hours donated by Disney VoluntEARS at local schools and more than 3 million school supplies donated to students at the start of the school year.

2013 SHINING STARS – LAKE COUNTY

Elementary School

Umatilla Elementary – 3^rd grade

Annagrace Hall began a food drive at her school after realizing that one of her friends was among the many recipients of a backpack program that provides meals to those in need. She wondered what would happen if the school’s pantry ran out of food, and felt she needed to take action. The drive was a huge success, allowing her to provide families with Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dinners, holiday gifts and gift cards for families to use in the summer months.  Her “small” idea blossomed into more than she expected, and she is now planning for her second annual holiday drive. One of Annagrace’s teachers admires her for wanting to help so many people at such a young age.  She describes her as an exceptional child with a sense of caring and commitment.

Middle School

Eustis Middle School – 8^th  grade

Camryn Rivers has been involved in various charities such as Kids Against Hunger, March of Dimes, and raising dollars for Haiti.  When a teacher was diagnosed with cancer and was in danger of losing her life without proper medication, Camryn took action to help. Camryn organized a 5K race, including the sale of t-shirts and team bracelets.  To her surprise, over 700 participants attended to show their support, and her profit was $15,000. These dollars were donated to her teacher to assist in her recovery. One of Camryn‘s teachers said that she is dedicated to her studies and helping people in need.  She describes what an honor it is to know her, and that in her case, the student has inspired the teacher.

High School

South Lake High – 11^th grade

Heather LeBlanc discovered that a local animal services facility was euthanizing animals. She decided to become involved so that innocent animals could go to deserving, loving homes.  She and her cousin opened Misfit Animal Rescue. Heather takes the animals from the facility for vaccinations and finds loving, fur-ever homes for them.  She has also attended city council meetings, and the county is now working on a resolution to save these animals as well.  Since her involvement, over 150 impounded dogs and cats have been saved. One of Heather‘s teachers said that she has made significant impact in her county.  While many students are spending weekends on the beach, she is focused on humanitarian efforts.

 2013 SHINING STARS – ORANGE COUNTY

Elementary School

West Creek Elementary – 5^th grade

Robert Sena has overcome challenges with a positive attitude and optimism.  After a job loss forced his family to move into a motel, Robert felt compelled to help others.  He volunteers at Coalition for the Homeless, and also speaks to both students and adults about healthy life habits. Robert recently applied for and received two grants to support his passion for encouraging a healthier generation.  One grant will fund a new vegetable garden at his school, and the other will be used for a garden at the Community Food & Outreach Center. One of Robert‘s teachers said that he shows true dedication to his community and his academics.  He is involved in many activities and sets a wonderful example for his peers.

Middle School

Orangewood Christian Middle – 8^th  grade

Nicholas Christian Reed has a best friend.  His brother is a musician, equestrian, swimmer, and has a love for traveling. Nicholas said his brother is severely autistic, and his family’s biggest blessing.  He teaches his brother as much as his brother teaches him, and it is his job to protect and love him. Nicholas believes he is lucky one to have the best brother anyone could want. Although his brother is the true Dreamer & Doer, he can’t tell his story, so Nicholas will just tell others about his many gifts.   The relationship they have inspires Nicholas to make his home, school and community a better place. One of Nicholas‘s teachers said that he commits his time and service to others with specific needs.  He leads and practices a lifestyle to emulate, and excels in all areas of service.

High School

Timber Creek High – 12^th grade

Jessica Velazquez leads service-learning projects at her school and the community.  Her 1,350 hours of volunteering include a variety of activities from preserving the environment to clothing and food drives to helping migrant farm workers and those who are homeless. Although Jessica has faced emotional and financial hardship like others, she feels that helping has infused her life with hope and joy.  She encourages others to take action and participate now in order to make a difference in the lives of others. One of Jessica‘s teachers describes her as role model and leader.  As a foster child, she has faced difficulties, yet she focuses her energy on the well-being of others.

2013 SHINING STARS – OSCEOLA COUNTY

Elementary School

St. Cloud Elementary – 5^th grade

Angelika Pabon’s visit to a homeless shelter made her realize how blessed she is to have a safe place to live.  It inspired her to start a donation drive to give pajamas to those in need.  To date, she and her Girl Scout troop have donated 625 pajamas to shelters, foster homes, and children in hotels. Angelika has begun reaching out to farmers’ markets and rotary clubs to collect socks and underwear for foster children.  She understands that collecting these items is not the same as providing a safe home, but she feels her efforts create awareness in the community to help more children in need. One of her teachers describes Angelika‘s desire to give to others as very mature for someone her age.  She strives to ensure that all students feel valued and included in activities.

Middle School

Trinity Lutheran – 8^th grade

Rebecca Dupuis is drawn to help others.  She has volunteered at various places such as the Orlando Science Center and Teen Court, and sponsors a child at the Village of Hope in Haiti.  She enjoys sending letters to soldiers in Afghanistan, and appreciates what soldiers do to help all children. Volunteering helps Rebecca feel she can make a difference, and has taught her how lucky she is to have the life she has.  Her view is that a community works when its members practice basic human decency and are considerate and helpful to one another. One of Rebecca‘s teachers said that her positive spirit and academic drive make a difference in her community.  She helps classmates and promotes school pride through her volunteer projects.

High School

Celebration High – 12^th grade

Jaime Kaplan-Perico builds relationships with students in her intern role with the Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida.  At first she did not understand their choices or their hardships, until she took the time to listen to their tales of homelessness, illness, and isolation. Jaime said the children have taught her how to be more patient and to better appreciate the simple things in life.  When a student thanked her for listening to her and allowing her to express her feelings, it melted her heart.  This confirmed her important role with the “club kids.” One of Jaime‘s teachers said she demonstrates kindness to those who face difficulties.  She is involved with other organizations and has become an advocate for those in need. 

2013 SHINING STARS - POLK COUNTY

Elementary School

Auburndale Central Elementary – 4^th grade

Jennifer Morales helps her 4 year old brother to read, write, and learn his letters.  Because he has a hard time sitting still, she makes learning fun, such as creating an alphabetical train to teach him letters, or going on an alphabetical treasure hunt. She wants him to get a step closer to his future. Jennifer‘s brother speaks in Spanish during the day, but switches to English when she gets home.  She teaches him big words, like hypothesis and onomatopoeia. Jennifer said that teaching him helps her too, and because learning is fun, he is always eager to learn. One of Jennifer‘s teachers describes her as a leader, both in school and at home.  She is not afraid to try new things and does her best all the time.  She can do whatever she puts her mind to.

Middle School

Lawton Chiles Middle Academy – 8^th  grade

Holt Russell is a kite surfer and owner of Rejoyce Cotton Candy.  After meeting a 2-year old in Guatemala who had been left in a garbage can by a mother who could not care for him, he decided to focus his efforts on building an orphanage for children in Africa. Holt‘s company is named after his grandmother Joyce, who had an enormous heart for orphans.  His cotton candy machine appears at many community events and he even went kite surfing from Miami to the Florida Keys to raise money for his cause. One of Holt‘s teachers said that he gives 100% to anything he does.  He is respectful, kind, and makes the extra effort to help other students and teachers.

High School

All Saints Academy – 12^th grade

For the past 5 years, Maxwell Hewett has accompanied his father, who is a dentist, to Guatemala to provide dental services in impoverished communities.  Parents in these communities must pay $8 per month to send their children to school, yet families cannot afford to pay this amount. Maxwell created a nonprofit with his sister called the Guatemala Awareness Project.  On one of their trips, they purchased 500 handmade bracelets that are sold here, and all profits are sent to Guatemala so that more students are able to enroll in school. One of Maxwell‘s teachers said that while most students spend their summers improving themselves, he spends his free time improving the lives of others.  He is more than a dreamer – he is a doer.

2013 SHINING STARS – SEMINOLE COUNTY

Elementary School

Lake Mary Elementary – 5^th grade

Mary Tracy has 4 siblings.  Her brother and sister have extra needs, and she helps her family by doing a variety of chores.  When her brother is afraid during thunderstorms, she sits with him.  When her sister needs help in her wheelchair, she makes her comfortable so she can breathe better. Mary‘s involvement in Girl Scouts allows her to also help others in need through volunteer projects.  She knows she is not doing things that matter to the world, but she is doing things that matter to those she loves.  She doesn’t believe she has changed the world, but she knows she has changed herself. One of Mary‘s teachers describes her as kind, caring, and responsible.  Both Mary and her family work together to make the world a better place through kindness and good deeds.

Middle School

Annunciation Catholic Academy – 8^th grade

Hannah Veigle was diagnosed with diabetes in fifth grade. Although others felt she would have limits, Hannah wanted to prove them wrong.  She started a walk team called Hannah’s Troops and has raised over $20,000 to fight juvenile diabetes. Hannah is active in other activities as well.  She has a pen pal in Haiti who is an orphan and fighting HIV.  Her pen pal inspires her and she hopes to meet her someday.  She describes diabetes as a gift that pushes her to put her best foot forward, always be optimistic, and actively pursue her dreams. One of Hannah‘s teachers admires her positive outlook and behaviors.  She could have felt sorry for herself after her diagnosis, but instead used it as an opportunity to help others.

High School

The Master’s Academy – 12^th grade

Kasen Raines found her passion while working in India in 2009.  She undertook a project to rescue girls from slavery, and through this experience learned the power of listening, sharing, and hope.  When she returned to the US, she began mentoring girls struggling with self-image and other issues. Kasen‘s efforts have resulted in the collection of over 550 phones for Harbor House to help victims of child slavery.  She also tutors students and serves as a mentor for several girls.  She does not want to ignore the pain of those around her, and continues in her campaign to help girls around the world. One of Kasen‘s teachers describes how her global perspective and outreach has touched the lives of students and teachers.  Her cell phone drive was creative and inspirational. 

2013 SHINING STAR – FLORIDA VIRTUAL SCHOOL

Florida Virtual School – 6^th grade

Bailey Ansbaugh went on a trip to Osceola County Animal Control, and that sparked a passion.  When she found out she was too young to volunteer, she decided to collect loads of newspapers, blankets, and comfort items to make the dogs more comfortable. Her next project was to find homes willing to adopt.  Her first puppy save was a pit bull who was not going to be kept at the center very long, so she knew she had to do something fast.  She began a Facebook campaign and was able to find a home for Cookie. One of Bailey‘s teachers said that because of her involvement, animals have many of the supplies needed for their care.  She continues her work on finding homes for all the animals.

Disney contributes to the local community in many ways – through the millions of dollars in taxes it generates for local governments, the leadership it provides on important community issues, the cash and in-kind support it provides local non-profit organizations and the thousands of volunteer hours given by Cast Members.

Economic Impact
A study by Arduin, Laffer & Moore Econometrics released in April 2011 shows the magic Disney makes for Guests at its parks and resorts and on its cruise ships translates into a strong economic impact not only in Central Florida but across the state.

• The $18.2 billion in annual economic activity generated locally by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts accounts for 2.5 percent of Florida’s gross domestic product.

• Of the 7.2 million Floridians in the workforce in 2009, more than one out of every 50 had a job that can be directly or indirectly tied to the operations of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Locally, 6 percent of all jobs in Central Florida can be attributed to Disney’s operations.

• In Central Florida, Cast Members at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts earned a total of nearly $1.8 billion during FY2009. Across Florida, when direct and indirect jobs are taken into account, more than $6 billion in paychecks can be attributed directly or indirectly to Disney’s operations.

• Each year Walt Disney Parks and Resorts purchases more than $2 billion worth of goods and services. Nearly $1 billion is paid to vendors with a presence in the state and approximately $500 million goes to vendors in Central Florida.

• Spending by Disney Guests at businesses outside the resort area totaled nearly $1.7 billion in FY2009. This includes hotel and lodging expenditures, meals at local restaurants, retail purchases’ and transportation expenditures.

• When taking the amount Disney pays in taxes and subtracting the money for the various government services used by Guests and Cast Members, the net benefit to Florida and all localities is more than $400 million. In Central Florida, Orange County sees a net benefit of more than $100 million and Osceola County sees a net benefit of almost $10 million.

Revenue for Central Florida Governments
Disney is the largest taxpayer in Central Florida, paying approximately $566 million in state and local taxes each year.

• Walt Disney World Resort pays approximately $95 million annually in ad valorem taxes; an estimated $82.5 million is paid to Orange County and more than $12.5 million to Osceola County. 

• In Orange County, Disney pays more in taxes than thenext 10 highest county taxpayers combined. Approximately $44 million of those funds go directly to education.

• Disney generated approximately 34 percent of the Tourist Development Taxes collected in Orange Countyand approximately 25 percent of these taxes in Osceola County in 2010.

• Disney paid or collected more than $406 million in state sales, use and communications taxes and local resort taxes for the surrounding communities in 2010.

• In addition to the county taxes, Walt Disney World Resort paid more than $69 million in taxes to the Reedy Creek Improvement District in 2011. These tax dollars go toward building hundreds of millions of dollars worth of public infrastructure at no cost to taxpayers.

Community Leadership
Walt Disney World Resort is committed to providing leadership that will continue to help Central Florida thrive and grow. Approximately 120 Disney Cast Members serve on the boards of local nonprofit organizations.
Recent initiatives in which Walt Disney World Resort has played an active role include:

• Contributing to the well being of children in Central Florida – The new Walt Disney Pavilion at Florida Hospital for Children was made possible in part by a $10 million commitment by Disney. Disney Imagineers designed the hospital’s lobby, which features supporting characters from classic Disney films in a welcoming, healing environment that places young patients in the starring role. Walt Disney World Resort also contributed $1 million to build the Walt Disney World Clubhouse of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida and $750,000 for a teen center in the Tupperware Brands Boys & Girls Club in Osceola County.

• Building the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts - Disney pledged a $12.5 million contribution to sponsor the 2,700-seat Walt Disney Theater, the largest of the halls at the center. With a grand opening scheduled in 2014, the performing arts center will be significant to the cultural growth of Central Florida and a premiere destination for the arts in Orlando.

• Support of Commuter Rail -Recognizing the region’s need for more mass transit options, Disney supports SunRail, which will create new ways for commuters to reach their jobs, new access to existing businesses and new chances to further diversify Central Florida’s economy and create jobs.

• Further diversifying Florida’s economy – Walt Disney World Resort leaders were actively engaged in the development of a medical city at Lake Nona, working closely with Central Florida leaders to bring the Burnham Institute to Central Florida and help to make the dream of a University of Central Florida Medical School a reality. Both projects are expected to help diversify and drive the region’s economy for years to come.

• Walt Disney World Resort donated $500,000 toward construction of Second Harvest Food Bank’s new facility opening in March 2013. 

Investing in Central Florida’s Children and Families
Walt Disney World Resort’s community programs and partnerships are focused on building better futures for local children, and ultimately, creating a stronger community for everyone. These efforts are geared toward helping families meet basic needs, youth development and education.

In 2012, the company donated more than $30 million in cash and in-kind support to local nonprofit organizations. Examples include:

• Walt Disney World Resort gave a total of $1.5 million in Disney Helping Kids Shine Grants to 59 local nonprofit organizations that work tirelessly to build better futures for more than 70,000 children in Central Florida. Among the top recipients were Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, A Gift For Music, Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida.

• Walt Disney World Resort is a valued partner to Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, which for the past few years has been recognized as one of the top Disney’s Helping Kids Shine grant recipients. As part of this recognition, the Coalition continues to receive ongoing comprehensive support from Disney, which includes board service, assistance in the maintenance and improvement of Coalition facilities, approximately 750 monthly meal donations prepared by Disney chefs and donations of warm clothing in the winter.

• 2011 marked the 20^th anniversary of the Disney Harvest program.  More than 340,000 pounds of prepared and un-served food were donated to the local community through Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

• Walt Disney World Resort’s excess inventory continued to meet the needs of many non-profit organizations in Central Florida. Merchandise and in-kind product donations in 2012 were valued at nearly $4 million.

• Disney continued to be the primary sponsor of the A Gift For Music program which is part of A Gift for Teaching, with a $100,000 donation. A Gift For Music provides, at no cost, instruction on stringed instruments to students who normally could not afford such an opportunity.

In addition, Walt Disney World Resort is the largest corporate contributor to the Heart of Florida United Way. In 2012 Disney Cast Membersdonated more than $3.4 million to the United Way to help non-profit agencies meet social services needs in Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties.

VoluntEARS Show Character
In 2012, Disney VoluntEARS gave 216,000 hours toward improving the lives of Central Floridians, ranging from donating more than 3.1 million school supplies to local students, to serving more than 9,000 meals to the homeless. Nearly 700 Walt Disney World VoluntEARS received the President’s Volunteer Service Award from the White House for contributing more than 100 hours of service. VoluntEAR efforts include:

• In 2010, all Walt Disney World Resort hotels began supporting Clean the World by collecting discarded bath soaps, shampoos and lotions. Recently, efforts were expanded to include Disney resort hotels in California and Hawaii. To date, Disney hotels have donated 86 tons of soap and bottled amenities to Clean the World, not only diverting that waste from landfills, but providing useful products for those in need.

• In August 2012, Disney VoluntEARS donated a total of $837,750 to 455 local non-profit agencies and community service groups through Disney’s EARS To You program.  The grants from The Walt Disney Company annually recognize individual Cast Members and Imagineers for their VoluntEAR service (based on prior calendar year) through a contribution of up to $1,000 to the eligible charity of their choice. Top recipients included schools, animal rescue organizations and groups that support children and families.

• Disney annually recognizes a VoluntEAR of the Year and VoluntEAR Team of the Year with $2,500 cash donations to the charity of their choice.

• For more than 17 years, Walt Disney World Resort has supported Junior Achievement of Central Florida by raising more than $3.7 millionthrough events such as the JA Bowl-A-Thon. VoluntEARS also teach Junior Achievement financial literacy classes for grades K-12 in Orange and Osceola Counties.

• In Dec. 2012, Disney VoluntEARS helped make the holidays brighter for thousands of local children by collecting more than 35,000 toys for Central Florida Toys for Tots. Cast Members also gave more than 7,000 hours toward helping the U.S. Marines register families in need, sort and stock toys and assist with toy distribution.

• As part of the 2011 International Coastal Cleanup, one ton of debris was collected from Brevard County beaches, by more than 300 Disney VoluntEARS, of whom more than 50% were first-time VoluntEARS. 

Supporting Education
As part of Disney’s commitment to building a better future for Central Florida’s children, Walt Disney World Resort is actively involved in supporting education. The benefits for the region are far-reaching; money and time invested in educational programs show a return in higher graduation and employment rates, reduced crime and less reliance on public assistance.

• Walt Disney World Resort has given more than $5.7 million to the University of Central Florida in the past 13 years, including contributions of $2 million to the UCF Rosen School of Hospitality Management and $1 million to the UCF College of Medicine.

• Disney has donated more than $2.7 million to the scholarship funds of Bethune-Cookman College and Florida A&M University. In addition, Disney contributed $250,000 to the Florida A&M University College of Law to sponsor the Children and Family Law Clinic.

• Walt Disney World Resort contributed $1 million to Valencia Community College to support programs in culinary science and hospitality.

• Walt Disney World Resort contributed $500,000 to Rollins College to benefit The Campaign for Rollins, The Rollins Fund for the Walt Disney World Scholars Program, the Roy E. Crummer Graduate School of Business Scholarship Fund and the Hamilton Holt School Scholarship Fund.

• In May 2012, public school districts and early learning coalitions in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Polk counties received a combined total of $320,000 in Disney Helping Kids Shine Grants to enhance student performance from preschool through 12^th grade. New in 2012 was a focused grant amount for students whose lives are affected by homelessness.

• To date, more than 11,900 students have been named Disney Dreamers and Doers. The program recognizes exceptional students throughout Central Florida for demonstrating outstanding character and volunteer service.

• Walt Disney World Resort Cast Members conduct an annual Back-to-School Supply Drive, last year donating an all-time high of more than 3.1 million school supplies. The items were combined with Walt Disney World Resort’s 13,000 donated backpacks and distributed to underserved youth in Orange, Osceola, Lake, Polk and Seminole counties.

• 120 children from community centers in Orange and Osceola counties participated in the 2012 Disney Conservation Camp during their school spring break. Offered for the first time outside of Disney, participants engaged in conservation and environmental activities that inspired them to take care of themselves, our community and our planet.

Granting Wishes
Walt Disney World Resort works with children’s wish-granting organizations around the world to make Disney dreams come true. Whether it’s a desire to dance with Cinderella, or a chance to play football with Mickey Mouse, Walt Disney World Resort helps create special memories for children with life-threatening medical conditions. Disney-themed wishes continue to be the most popular requests from children with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
In 2012, Disney hosted more than 7,000 wish trips for children and donated complimentary tickets valued at more than $10 million to Give Kids the World Village and other wish-granting organizations.

The volunteers endured six hours of hard work and light rain as they installed new swings, a rock-climbing wall and spiral slides along with seesaws and monkey bars.

“This project meant a lot to me,” said Disney VoluntEAR Shelby Curry. “Because I live in Clermont, I feel like I’m not only giving back to the community, but my own children will also be able to play here for many years to come.”

The weekend activity is one of several volunteer efforts Cast Members are participating in as part of the 30th anniversary of the Disney VoluntEARS program.  Disney VoluntEARS is a global, company-wide effort that provides opportunities for Cast Members to contribute their time to make a positive impact on the community.

Planning for the playground and outdoor classroom began in March at a “Design Day” event, where local children met with KaBOOM!, Nature Explore, and Disney to design their desired space.  Their drawings and ideas were used to create their dream playground. Unique to the project is an outdoor classroom that will inspire children to explore their creativity by connecting with nature.

“The playground and outdoor classroom at West Beach are a unique addition to the City of Clermont’s parks system,” said City Manager Darren Gray. “The City is proud to be a partner in this exciting community project that gives our children a new place to play.” 

Since 1996, KaBOOM! has used its innovative community-build model to bring together community interests and business toconstruct more than 2,200 new places to play across North America.

“Every child deserves to have a great place to play and we’re thrilled to continue our work with Disney in striving toward that goal,” said Darell Hammond, KaBOOM! founder & CEO. “Thanks to the efforts from Disney, KaBOOM!, the City of Clermont, Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake and Sumter Counties and Nature Explore, we moved one step closer to the KaBOOM!vision of a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America.”

The new playground is one of dozens made possible with support from Disney to inspire kids to lead healthier lifestyles.  By the end of 2013, Disney’s support will bring the magic of play to over 50,000 kids and families.

“Only 1-in-5 children live within walking distance of a park or playground,” said Leslie Goodman, senior vice president, Corporate Citizenship at The Walt Disney Company. “Disney is proud to join KaBOOM!, the City of Clermont, Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake and Sumter Counties, and Nature Explore to build a new playground for the community. Together, we hope to make places to play more accessible, and inspire kids and families to stay active.”

To watch the video from the event, click here.

During the month of May, Cast Members around the world will commemorate the 30-year milestone by participating in activities that promote the happiness and wellbeing of children and families, strengthen their communities and inspire others to volunteer. At Walt Disney World Resort, thousands of Cast Members have committed to nearly 50 volunteer activities over the next 30 days from serving meals to the homeless to building playgrounds in local neighborhoods to caring for rescued animals.

“Walt Disney World is proud to be a member of the Central Florida community,” said George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “We live in a dynamic community with many needs, and our VoluntEARS invest their time and talents in a variety of endeavors. Through them, we inspire children and families, revitalize our environment and improve the quality of life.”

Last year, Walt Disney World VoluntEARS donated 230,000 hours to support over 1,700 Central Florida organizations. In addition, 700 Walt Disney World VoluntEARS received the President’s Volunteer Service Award from the White House for contributing more than 100 hours of service. This year, Disney will also donate a total of $916,000 to 450 local non-profit agencies and community service groups through Disney’s EARS to You program.

As part of today’s event, Walt Disney World Resort recognized the Disney’s Animal Kingdom Community Involvement Team as the VoluntEAR Team of the Year and veterinary assistant Liz Hedrick as the Disney VoluntEAR of the Year. The VoluntEAR Team of the Year donated more than 5,500 hours serving meals to the homeless, helping build houses and making pet beds for animal shelters. Hedrick donated more than 750 hours providing health evaluations of rescued animals, free community dog training classes and visiting nursing homes with her therapy dog. Hedrick and Disney’s Animal Kingdom team received $3,000 each for the charities of their choice — Wildlife Rehabilitation of Central Florida and the SPCA of Central Florida.

“Over the years, the SPCA of Central Florida has been lucky to be the recipient of Liz’s time, energy, and love,” said Jake White, executive vice president and general manager of the SPCA. “Her commitment to our pets is unmatched. Through heartfelt actions like hers, we are able to be successful in our mission.”

The VoluntEARS program started at Disneyland Resort in 1983 as a way for Cast Members to focus their volunteer efforts in a more meaningful way. The team achieved great success in their support of charitable organizations, and that momentum led to a company-wide launch of the Disney VoluntEARS in the early ’90s.

To help inspire Cast Members take a more proactive approach for their health, Disney offers Cast Couch to 5K Plus  This program includes personalized training plans, online resources and coaching to help Cast Members become more active. Cast Members at all levels of fitness are participating and moving toward a healthier lifestyle by starting simple.

For Cast Member Tom Mack, the impetus to get started came from his seven-year-old daughter who expressed an interest in running. After finishing the program, he and his daughter both ran in the Disney Royal Family 5K in February. “Since finishing the program, running has become a lifestyle for me and my family” said Mack, whose goal is to run in more race events later this year.

Couch to 5K launched in 2011 with more race events and enhanced training plans added this year.

Cast Member Maria Espinal says that  this program has helped her reach her goal of completing a 5K. “I never thought I would ever be doing a 5K.”

“Since we launched the Couch to 5K hundreds of Cast Members have participated and taken steps to improve their health,” said Tracy Swanson, Vice President for Benefits, Health and Workforce Solutions. “Being active helps our Cast and their family’s lead healthier lives, including spending more time outside.”

Couch to 5K Plus is one of many ways Disney supports Cast Members along their wellness journey. Other programs include:

• On-site health and wellness offerings
• Educational and screening opportunities
• Access to online tools and resources, such as a personal health assessment and a prescription drug price comparison tool.

Disney Cast Members have many wellness options to choose from.

Located south of Walt Disney World Resort, the preserve sits at the top of the headwaters of the Everglades watershed and  is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals including bald eagles, sandhill cranes, wild turkeys and red-shouldered hawks.

Open to hikers and bird-watchers, the Preserve is  a national model of innovative, large-scale conservation that was created in the early 1990s when The Walt Disney Company donated 8,500 acres to The Nature Conservancy as part of a visionary approach to responsible development and mitigation.

“We learned everything we know about wetlands restoration there,” says Tricia Martin, director of conservation for The Nature Conservancy chapter inCentral Florida. “It was the first project to take on the challenge of transforming an entire degraded landscape back to a healthy, functioning ecosystem—one right at the head of the Everglades.”

The scope of the work and the large scale ecosystem approach to mitigation represented a sea change in conventional thinking— and a unique collaboration among government, conservation organizations and business. The conservation and restoration work is already improving the quality and quantity of water within the Greater Everglades and has served as a springboard for The Nature Conservancy’s work in the larger landscape.

Visit the Disney Wilderness Preserve web site: http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/florida/placesweprotect/the-disney-wilderness-preserve.xml

Students are asked to self-nominate for something they are doing at school, at home, or in their community that inspires others and makes their world, and our world a better place. Examples could include helping younger siblings to excel in school, serving as a role model to others, involvement in a community effort, or committing to a healthier and more active lifestyle with their families.

Once students are chosen as their school’s Dreamer and Doer, a panel of Disney judges will select 18 Shining Stars from elementary, middle and high schools in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Polk counties, as well as the Florida Virtual School. These students are considered the best of the best, by consistently demonstrating outstanding character, leading by example, and having a caring spirit.

“The Disney Dreamers and Doers program is just one way we demonstrate our commitment to the children of Central Florida,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of Community Relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “We are so proud of all of these students, especially the Shining Stars. They offer bright hope for the future as each of them has a special spark. They truly are making a difference in our community and inspiring others to do the same.”

Disney Dreamers and Doers receive an honorary certificate, medallion, and four park passes. Those later selected as Shining Stars will receive a Mickey Mouse statue known as a “Mousecar” (Disney’s version of the Oscar), Walt Disney World annual theme park passes for themselves and their immediate family, a gold medallion and be celebrated at their respective schools.

Since the program’s inception more than 12,000 students have been recognized as Disney Dreamers and Doers. In the past year, Disney’s involvement in education has included Disney Helping Kids Shine grants for five school districts and early learning coalitions, sponsorship of A Gift For Teaching and A Gift For Music, donations of clothing, and more than 2.1 million school supplies donated to students at the start of the school year

Disney’s signature program is expected to impact approximately 70,000 local children through organizations in Central Florida that inspire creativity and innovation in children, encourage a sense of compassion for others and promote the health and well-being of families. This year’s grant recipients were selected for their unique programs and services that provide kids access to school readiness programs, summer camps, music education, theatre groups, food, shelter and counseling.

“Disney’s Helping Kids Shine grant recipients share our vision to inspire youth in reaching their full potential,” said George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort. ”We are thrilled to recognize and support the tireless efforts of these organizations and hope our investment in them helps build a better future for children and families in Central Florida.”

This year’s grant recipients were chosen by a 17-member committee that included Cast Members, community leaders, government officials, educators and entrepreneurs. The panel noted the work of six organizations in particular for their impact on the community’s most vulnerable families:

• Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida ($100,000)
• A Gift for Teaching/A Gift for Music ($100,000)
• Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida ($75,000)
• School District of Osceola County ($57,500)
• Orange County Public Schools ($57,500)
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida ($50,000)

“Disney continues to be a generous and involved community partner,” said Gary Cain, president and chief professional officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. “This grant will help us continue to operate a state-of-the-art technology program and enhance a growing performing arts initiative at our Walt Disney World Clubhouse.”

During the event at the Orlando Repertory Theatre, Walt Disney World Resort President George Kalogridis presented the Orange County Public Library System with the Bob Allen Outstanding Community Service Award. This grant is given each year to recognize a local social service, environmental or humanitarian organization for outstanding work in Central Florida. The Orange County Public Library System will use the grant to fund the Summer Reading Program, an initiative that encourages and rewards youth to read and learn while school is out.

Walt Disney World focuses its philanthropic efforts on youth development, education and helping families meet basic needs. Since 1972, Walt Disney World has awarded more than $15 million to benefit local nonprofit organizations.

To watch the video from the event, click here.

To view the 2013 Disney Helping Kids Shine Grant Recipients, click here.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 14, 2013 – Walt Disney World Resort today announced the multi-year transformation of Downtown Disney into Disney Springs, a unique destination that will treat guests to significantly more shopping, dining and entertainment amid beautiful open-air promenades, meandering springs and waterfront charm.

Disney Springs will feature an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands. From boutique shops to unique flagship anchor stores, guests will be able to explore a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences and discover options unlike any other currently available in Central Florida.

“Disney Springs will be a timeless, vibrant place where Walt Disney World guests and local residents can relax, shop, dine and be entertained in an imaginative setting where they’ll instantly feel at home,” said Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Featuring distinctive brands, world-class restaurants and unforgettable entertainment, Disney Springs will be brought to life with the same focus on storytelling and attention to detail that goes into our theme parks, resorts and cruise ships, resulting in a welcoming space that only Disney could create.”

Disney Springs will double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, resulting in more than 150 establishments. In addition, Staggs noted, Central Florida stands to benefit from the expansion with more jobs, tax revenues and business opportunities.

Drawing inspiration from Florida’s waterfront towns and natural beauty, Disney Springs will include four outdoor neighborhoods interconnected by a flowing spring and vibrant lakefront. In addition to a new gateway with a signature water tower and grand entry, the destination will feature:

• The Town Center, which offers a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a promenade where guests can relax, refresh and reconnect.

• A colorful and thriving commercial district called The Landing with inspired dining and beautiful waterfront views.

• The family-friendly Marketplace that will continue to delight guests of all ages by combining new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney store.

• A West Side that provides an exuberant atmosphere with lively entertainment, along with a series of new elevated spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the activity below.

Collectively, these efforts will not only have an impact within Walt Disney World, but will also have an economic ripple effect on Central Florida. The project will create an estimated 1,200 construction jobs and nearly 4,000 operational roles.

Disney will share more details on specific experiences coming to Disney Springs in the future. Construction is slated to begin next month with new areas opening in phases. Disney Springs is expected to be complete in 2016.

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