Ways Disney Gives Back

People may see The Walt Disney Company as a big soul sucking leech but little do they know that this company actually is associated with quite a few places that give back to the community. Within the company itself, they have several ways they give back. Here are just a few examples of what they do to give back and the charities they work with!

The Disney Conservation Fund is one that guests will probably see the most visibly during their park visits. This one can mainly be found at Disney's Animal kingdom Park but can be found at other merchandise locations in other parks. Its focus is on environment protection and utilizing its resources correctly. This is why you will notice they have begun using paper straws in some of the parks as they are starting to slowly roll it out and at Animal Kingdom specifically provides no lids for drinks. This fund allows them to give grants that protect wildlife and help inspire others to join in the cause of helping the planet. Just 2 months ago, Disney was able to give a $6 million grant towards protecting wildlife and the environment. There are several places in Animal Kingdom where you can donate, whether big or small, to the fund. 100% of your donation is matched by the company and given to nonprofits in the fund.

One of the most famous and well known ways the company gives back is by working with the Make a Wish foundation. The Make a Wish foundation grants wishes to children with life threatening illnesses. When it comes to Disney specifically, It can range from meeting their favorites Disney Characters, Visiting a park and many more. I have run into a few families during my park visits and it's been amazing to personally see the joy on the families faces to see their little ones wish come true. Disney has been working with the foundation since 1981 and have been creating beautiful, tear jerking moments like the one below ever since.




Toys for Tots is popular during this time of year because this charity specifically asks people to donate unwrapped and unopened toys that are given to children who are less fortunate. They also take cash donations as well! This was the charity I chose to donate to for Giving Tuesday this year because as a preschool teacher, it's important to me that every child has the resources and abilities to get toys, education and love. Toys for tots have been associated with The Walt Disney Company since 1948 when Walt and his animators designed a logo for the charity that is still in use today! Disney has their own VoluntEARS annual toy drive for the organization and takes donations to give to them via cast member toy drives and more.
The Walt Disney Company in recent years has launched their Disney Aspire Program . This education investment program allows hourly cast members to work with schools within their network so that they can achieve their educational goals. I know some cast member friends have personally used this to start their bachelor's and masters degree journeys but this program also includes high school completion. There a multiple degree options, online classes to provide flexibility, coaching support every step of the way and it's 100 tuition free.


Disney's Youth Education Series gives students and teachers in park educational experiences that are accredited and reinforces classroom learning in subjects such as liberal arts, applied sciences, environmental studies and leadership development. Its available for groups between elementary to high school year round and 7 days a week worldwide for groups of 10 or more. There is also a college version on this series as well. Disney gives performing arts opportunities to via workshops and giving opportunities for performances throughout the resort. I have seen this many times during my trip through band performances before parades and at Disney Springs. Once I met a group that had traveled all the way from New Zealand to perform at Disney Springs!

Today is Giving Tuesday and whether you choose to donate to a charity associated with Disney, one in your own community or take the time to volunteer, remember that its the season of love, kindness and giving. Try to think of others before yourself and have a happy holiday season!


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