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.

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.

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.

Junior Achievement is a nonprofit organization that goes into schools to provide age-appropriate economic education for children in grades K-12. Preparing young people for economically sound futures, Junior Achievement helps students understand financial responsibility by teaching lessons in how to earn, save, maintain a budget, manage credit and control their personal finances.

“With the support of Walt Disney World and their Cast Members, Junior Achievement is better able to achieve their goal of empowering children from kindergarten through high school to own their economic success and plan for their futures through smart academic and economic choices,” said Craig Polejes, president, Junior Achievement of Central Florida.

Qualifying donations raised this weekend by Disney VoluntEARS can be matched by The Walt Disney Company Foundation and will fund Junior Achievement programming, educator kits and classroom supplies. The Disney Bowl-A-Thon is the culmination of yearlong involvement Disney Cast Members extend to Junior Achievement by donating their time and talent to teaching Junior Achievement curriculum in Orange and Osceola County schools.

“For 19 years, Walt Disney World Resort Cast Members have generously supported Junior Achievement of Central Florida,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “All of the donations are a result of their compassion and readiness to give back to the community.”

The day-long event is designed for “birders” of all skill levels. Disney Cast Members with an affinity for bird watching taught the Girl Scouts which birds are found in Central Florida in the winter and how to recognize bird calls in the wild.

Together Cast Members and Girl Scouts counted 107 different bird species and over 16,000 individual birds, including 20 Bald Eagles, at Walt Disney World Resort. This year, Holiday Bird Count participants even spotted some species new to the resort, like the Virginia Rail.

Information gathered during the counting is shared with conservation organizations, enabling them to follow trends in bird populations and help focus conservation efforts.

One new event at the Walt Disney World Holiday Bird County was the Family Birding Festival, where the Girl Scouts and Cast Members’ kids participated in a variety of fun activities that included a nature walk.

To watch the video from the event, click here

Joining with members from Keep Brevard Beautiful, the United States Coast Guard and the Canaveral Port Authority, this volunteer effort aims to help improve the health of the ocean and waterways.

“Through their efforts, Disney VoluntEARS are not only lending a hand to preserve Florida’s natural beauty, they’re also making the beaches cleaner for Central Florida beachgoers,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “Over the past nineteen years Disney VoluntEARS have been involved in numerous cleanup projects, collecting over 40,000 pounds of trash and debris, enabling them to combine their passion for the environment with their commitment to the community.”

The Walt Disney Company, through the Disney VoluntEARS program, provides opportunities for Cast Members to volunteer their time and expertise to positively impact their communities. Last year, Disney VoluntEARS contributed more than 216,000 hours of service in Central Florida. Projects ranged from youth education programs to feeding the homeless to building playgrounds.  Environmental efforts have included initiatives from Orlando Nature Preserve and Green Up Orlando.

“Cleaning up our coastal areas directly contributes to the conservation of wildlife and nature, an important part of Disney’s environmental commitment,” said Jackie Ogden, Ph.D., vice president of Animals, Science and Environment for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “And it’s helping to ensure that our state’s natural wonders will inspire and nurture future generations.”

Disney Cruise Line is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact through efforts focused on utilizing new technologies, increasing fuel efficiency, minimizing waste and promoting conservation worldwide.  Cast and crew members strive to be positive environmental stewards, and seek to inspire others through programs that engage our guests and communities in our ports of call.  Please visit http://dclnews.com/about/environment/ to learn more.