Give Kids the World- Disney

http://www.gktw.org/

Give Kids The World is a non-profit organization that exists only to fulfill the wishes of all children with life-threatening illnesses and their families from around the world to experience a memorable, joyful, cost-free visit to the Central Florida attractions, and to enjoy the magic of Give Kids The World Village for as long as there is a need.

100,000 children have had their dream come true at Give Kids The World. No child in need has ever been turned away – and no child ever will. Give Kids The World is a place where families find joy, laughter, serenity, and a lifetime of memories. Through the tireless support of our volunteers, employees and generous partners, we dedicate each and every day to these special families.

Give Kids The World is a 51-acre resort for children with life-threatening illnesses who wish to visit Walt Disney World and other Central Florida attractions.

Henri Landwirth, still active today in the Central Florida hotel industry, had offered accommodations to a young girl suffering from leukemia and her family at his establishment. However, he was deeply saddened to learn that time had proved the enemy in the race to finalize a multitude of arrangements for the trip. The girl died without experiencing her wish.

Henri and two staff members began arranging wish vacations out of a converted store room in one of his hotels. He named this fledgling organization after its mission, "Give Kids The World," because that is what he intended to do.

Soon major corporations committed to providing many of the services families would require for their stay, but the number of requests was quickly outgrowing the lodging that the local hotel industry could provide. In addition, the hotels at the time were not equipped to deal with the unique needs of families with ill children.

Henri called upon friends from the early days of his career as a hotel manager in Cocoa Beach and Give Kids The World Village opened its gates to welcome its first families in early 1989. His friends answered his call and his vision soon became a reality.

Today, the Village features 96-villas, a whimsical restaurant, magical play area, an ice cream palace, a movie theatre, an interactive water park, a fishing pond and even a peaceful chapel. Each year, the Village welcomes families from communities in all 50 states and from more than 47 countries.

How You Can Help:

Donate on-line!
If you are interested in helping Give Kids The World through your
financial support please click here!

Or you may also write to:

Give Kids The World at:
210 South Bass Road Kissimmee, Florida 34746
Phone: (407) 396-1114
Fax: (407) 396-1207

Purchase a Paving Stone
To ensure the organization will always be able to meet the needs of children who have life-threatening illnesses, Give Kids The World Foundation has established an endowment fund. You can help the foundation reach its goal by purchasing a paver on the Avenue of Angels, located within the courtyard
of the Village.

For a $200 contribution you can become part of the Avenue of Angels and have a paving stone inscribed with your name or the name of a person you wish to honor.

Send an email to: joanr@gktw.org and you will be sent an order form.

Give Kids the World has a web site at: www.gktw.com

Gingerbread House Restaurant

Working at Give Kids The World is not merely a job, it is an opportunity; an opportunity to find a challenging, rewarding career while making a difference in the lives of the very special families it serves. As a testament to our incredible work environment, we are thrilled to have been named among the Orlando Sentinel Top 100 Companies for Working Families in Central Florida. Give Kids The World offers competitive salaries, flexible schedules, compensated benefits and paid vacation.

If you are looking to join a family whose mission is to inspire hope, create magical memories, and celebrate life, then please contact Give Kids The World to see how you can use your talents, skills and heart to bring joy into the lives of children battling a life-threatening illness.