Lyndsay Fogarty
For children battling life-threatening illnesses and their families, not a day goes by without having to worry about the latest test results or status of their illness. Many days require play sessions to be worked into schedules filled with doctor appointments and doses of medication.
Give Kids the World (GKTW), a nonprofit based in Kissimmee, has made it a mission to give children and their families time away from the worries by offering them a weeklong, cost-free vacation at Give Kids the World Village. This 79-acre resort boasts 144 villa accommodations, unique entertainment attractions, whimsical venues and fun activities for children of all abilities.
At Give Kids the World Village, the children and their families stay in fully-furnished villas and are provided with tickets to Orlando’s theme parks, transportation back and forth, meals, daily entertainment and more. According to the nonprofit’s website, Give Kids the World Village has welcomed more than 143,000 families from all 50 states and 75 countries with the help of generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations.
Fun facts about GKTW:
-The organization fills 1,400 to 1,700 volunteer shifts per week.
-The world’s largest Candy Land game at Matthew’s Boundless Playground is a fully wheelchair accessible play place.
-Wish children are given special stars with their names on them, which are placed on the ceiling of the Castle of Miracles.
-Families have access to all of Central Florida’s theme parks including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando.
GKTW is currently seeking votes in an effort to win a $75,000 grant from DSW through its Shoe Lovers Care campaign. This grant would help the organization fulfill its mission of bringing happiness and hope to children with life-threatening illnesses.
You can vote once per day, per device. Voting takes place through June 14 at ShoeLoversCare.com.
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