Disney Cast Members Help Unveil an “Extreme Village Makeover”
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Jan. 24, 2014 – In a “Move that bus” moment on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” dozens of Cast Members from Walt Disney World Resort joined Central Florida community leaders to unveil an ”Extreme Village Makeover” at Give Kids the World.
The non-profit organization provides memorable, magical and free accommodations to thousands of children with life-threatening illnesses who wish for a special trip to Central Florida’s theme parks.
As part of this one-of-a-kind project, Disney Cast Members dedicated countless hours to redesign and renovate a building to honor the thousands of volunteers who serve the children and their families at the Give Kids the World Village. Located in Kissimmee, Florida, the beautifully re-imagined space features a registration area and lounge, as well as a floor-to-ceiling, inspirational mural created with hundreds of photos from the personal moments shared between volunteers and families.
“Our Cast Members were thrilled to help with this ‘Extreme Village Makeover,’ which is one of the latest examples of our commitment to Give Kids the World,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “Whether through donated theme park tickets, Disney character entertainment or through the heartfelt service of thousands of Disney VoluntEARS each year, our hope is that these special children and their families return home with cherished memories from their visit to Central Florida.”
Walt Disney World and its Cast Members have been involved with Give Kids the World since its founding more than 25 years ago, helping to provide an escape from the real world of medical treatments and doctor appointments. Last year alone, thousands of Disney VoluntEARS provided more than 40,000 hours of service to help fulfill the wishes of families staying at the Give Kids the World Village.
