I am a volunteer at the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village and I enjoy volunteering at Sunshine its fun and love seeing the kids and their smiles.
We love volunteering with Sunshine Foundation. They are always thankful for our help and are fun to work with
Sunshine Foundation gave my son with multiple disabilities including severe autism a dream. We had picked Disney and that was great but the Dream Village was so awesome that it was a Dream in itself. We were also given tickets to Legoland. This had not been on his wish list but was another really great experience. Lego Land is awesome for disabled and kids with severe autism. To this day we still think of The Dream Village and my son wore out the Sunshine t shirt they gave him. Thank you for letting us see our son so happy. Sunshine is the only foundation that I found that will give a dream to a child with severe disabilities and illness. It was such a blessing to us as he is non verbal and no friends so a lonely life.
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I love Sunshine Foundation. My son has multiple problems and had a eye surgery and two other procedures that required being put to sleep all before age four.. Andrew also had a lot of blood draws and a lot of other medical treatments and therapy. Andrew has strabismus, brain encephalitis that caused his severe autism, apraxia, non verbal and dystonia . Till Andrew was age four he had failure to thrive as he could not gain weight and we went to multiple doctors for help. The other two children missed family vacations and Andrew needed to go on one to see his favorite characters Cars, Woody of Toy Story and SpongeBob. A added bonus was the tickets to Legoland that was awesome and even has sensory rooms for children that need a sensory break. We loved the pirate show and the rides, a great park to visit. I could not find any groups that accepted Andrew because he was not terminal and his surgeries and illness were not enough till I read a story about all that Sunshine Foundation does. Andrew loved watching u tube videos of roller coasters and Disney. Andrew got to go on his first coaster ride thanks to Sunshine Foundation. Andrew loved Dream Village. It is perfect for children that are elopers and cant talk. The parents can rest and know that if the door of the cottage is opened the alarm sounds. The Dream Village was a dream in itself. So peaceful. A large pool to enjoy. The lovely theme cottages. We had never seen Andrew smile so much. Andrew was so happy and at peace while he was there. I will forever be grateful to Sunshine Foundation and the restaurant that sponsored out trip. I believe ours was Glory Days Grill and another person in MD was Greene Turtle. I was also impressed with how much they do in the community and for other children. I love the idea of how many children they fly to Disney for a day.
The Sunshine Foundation has made my son's dreams come true by granting his travel wish. The impact they have on vulnerable children in our community is truly immeasurable. They are an incredible organization doing extraordinary work, bringing joy and hope to so many deserving kids!
I’ve been volunteering at the Sunshine Foundation for a several weeks now and I really enjoying being here. The Sunshine Foundation is a light to many families and have positively impacted many lives Thank you!
- Kat
I have been volunteering at the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village, with minor repairs and assisting in events and dressing up as Sunny the mascot. It is fun to make a child smile. I'm happy to be part of this amazing organization
My group, DHS Ladies' Quest has volunteered and visited with the Sunshine Foundation several times and we will continue to do so in the future. Sunshine Foundation continues to spread kindness and “sunshine” to our community, aligning with Ladies' Quest’s values. We are proud to support and work with the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village.
Everyone was wonderful to work with. Our dream was answered by generous donors and I couldn't ask for a more wonderful experience. Sunshine Village was a amazing place to stay during our trip!
The Sunshine Foundation Dream Village in Davenport, Florida is a really great place to volunteer at. There are a core group of staff and volunteers that help to make dreams come true for many children. The organization has a great purpose/vision to help children and their families feel amazing by delivering their “dream” whether it is a vacation here in Central Florida, or a new wheelchair. Each dream is unique and the Sunshine Foundation helps to fulfill these dreams. I feel honored to be a part of that mission, though primarily behind the scenes, which helps to make each dream possible.
I volunteered at the Sunshine Foundation while in High School and it was such and amazing experience getting to help the families and seeing the kids smile!
I’ve been volunteering for a month now and everyone here is so sweet and supportive. It’s a really nice place to work at and seeing the families having fun warms my heart!
Volunteer at Sunshine. Super organization. They grant wishes to so many children that could not otherwise afford it
The Sunshine Foundation is nothing short of amazing. The way this organization impacts the lives of children is truly remarkable. Witnessing the sheer joy on the faces of these kids when they arrive at the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village is incredibly heartwarming. It's more than just a place; it's a haven where dreams come true. I find immense happiness in being a part of this organization, knowing that I'm contributing to these children's lives. The resilience and spirit of the kids are awe-inspiring, and the atmosphere of hope and happiness at Dream Village is palpable. Working here isn't just a job; it's a fulfilling mission that changes not only a child's life but entire families'. The Sunshine Foundation is a beacon of light, and I'm grateful to be a part of it.
I have been part of this organization for many many years as a volunteer. It is very rewarding to watch our hard work fundraising, go into the dreams of so many of these deserving kids!! Whether its a trip to Disney or an ipad, a dream is a dream! This is a fantastic non-profit helping hundreds of children over the years!
It’s a wonderful experience volunteering and helping here at the sunshine foundation! i’ve been learning so many things and it’s been an amazing experience. The people here are absolutely fantastic and are very helpful with everything. Amazing foundation! ;)
Sunshine Foundation made my daughter’s dream of going to Disney World a reality! I can’t imagine a kinder or more generous group of people. We are grateful for the lifetime’s worth of memories we were able to make as a family.
Our experience with the sunshine foundation has been phenomenal. Everything from the village to the theme parks to all the special memories we made were such a blessing. Everyone was kind and helpful and my son ask to go back to his "spaceship hotel" anytime we're in that area.
My daughter was granted a wish, then Covid hit and left many children and my daughter disappointed as we didn’t know when the parks would open up again and when they did if it would be safe for our special kiddos, but Sunshine Foundation was not about to let our kids be disappointed so they offered alternate “safe” options. So instead of a Disney trip our daughter received a bedroom makeover for her and her sister. She got the bedroom of her dreams. We call her it her gift that keeps giving!
My son, Benjamin, diagnosed with autism was granted a Dream Vacation by the Sunshine Foundation and it was an absolutely amazing experiences even with the challenges that we had because of Benjamin's special needs. This organization's mission, workers, and generosity are outstanding! They are sincerely making the world a better place for many families!
We are blessed with a large family. We have three biological , three adopted, and two foster children. My ten year old son’s dream was to go to Disney World. He has gone through a lot in his life and it weighed on us that we couldn’t make it happen financially.
Sunshine Foundation gave him the most magical gift, a trip to Disney and an amazing village to stay at. The best part was, that we got to experience this as a family. On the days we weren’t at Disney we were swimming in springs and visiting the beautiful beaches (also doing laundry in the on-site laundry room, this was soooo helpful, lol). The pool at the village was so much fun! My kids caught frogs, lizards, and got to see an owl right outside our door.
We saw our kids smile, heard them laugh uncontrollably, and just appreciated us being together.
Mariah was amazing. We don’t think there could be anyone better suited for the job that she does at Sunshine Foundation. She was there for us, she was compassionate, she was so fun with the kids. She made us feel welcome and like the village was a second home.
We want to thank everyone that made this trip possible for us. We appreciate it more than we can express.
My family received a dream thru the Sunshine Foundation and it's an amazing organization. The team at the Dream Village was so helpful and made our stay in Florida even more memorable. Thank you Sunshine Foundation for Granting my son Connors dream.
My daughter was diagnosed with epilepsy when she was in middle school. She already was dealing with a learning and social deficit. She was having 30 laughing and crying seizures per day and the worst part was each time her bladder emptied. Middle school is already terrible so many changes to get used to.
The Sunshine Foundation granted my daughter a trip of a lifetime to Disneyworld and it was just what she needed.
When she returned to school she was relaxed and was able to share with her classmates what she was going thru and it was almost like a coming of age moment and it helped her grow into a beautiful young woman.
I hope someday I can help do the same for another young person.
What this organization and the people that run it do for our kids with special needs is remarkable!!! They are an amazing group of people that will ensure your child has the best experience ever or receives their most special gift or an item in need. They are truly amazing!!!!!
My family has been volunteering with the Sunshine Foundation since 2017 and the work that they do is nothing short of amazing! Personally seeing children and their families have their dreams granted and seeing them in many cases have the dream vacation or even life changing supplies provided to them to take the burden off of their family is wonderful! The Sunshine Foundation has allowed us to connect with these families and children in so many special ways including greeting them at the airport to welcome them on their trip, fundraising events and even sending our special packages during the pandemic. The foundation cares so much for not only the families but their staff and volunteers which makes it an even better experience to help them out!
Awesome organization! Friendly, loving changed my twins with cerebral palsy lives forever. Wanda Curtis and her staff are THE BEST!
Granting childrens dreams, simple or complex is what they do. Creating memories that can last a lifetime is priceless. The Sunshine foundation is opening doors and giving wings to these dreamers. I am so proud to be associated with this charity.
We love the Sunshine Foundation! They treated us like royalty and made our trip so pleasant and worry free. We made lots of memories and made lifetime friends.
Having worked with the Sunshine Foundation in Florida since 2007, there are not enough words to express how much they have done and continue to do in each state that they have a chapter. These are amazing people, who do amazing things for children every where. Keep up the good work!!!!
The Sunshine Foundation makes Dreams Come True and they should be recognized for all the love they pour into what they do. They have Blessed so many families, including mine.
I absolutely LOVE this non profit. I've been volunteering with them for the past year and I wish I had joined them sooner.
Of you haven't had the chance to check out there website, head over there now! Volunteer, donate, be the change!
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The Sunshine Foundation is an amazing organization that dedicates itself to granting dreams for chronically ill and/ or abused children. I have seen first hand the life changing experiences the organization provides and encourage everyone I know to get involved with their mission!
Growing up I started at the sunshine foundation at 13 years old as a volunteer. Now I am 26 and use what I learned from Wanda, Rich, Kate and Bill in my life daily. Not only that but meeting the families and being exposed to such caring people at such a young age truly built me into the person I am today.
Everyone at Sunshine Foundation is very talented and committed. They are very serious about their mission of helping to answer dreams for children with disabilities.... as many children as possible.
My son received a trip to Discovery Cove and tickets to Disney World. This was an amazing way to have a distraction from all of the therapy appointments. We went as a family of 4, so Discovery Cove was wonderful in making sure we got a discount and we’re all able to swim with dolphins together. We have cherished this memory as the best trip ever.
I have volunteered with the Sunshine Foundation for several years. Sunshine Foundation grant wishes to children and their families who need the support of a wonderful organization during difficult times. Wanda and the entire team are truly special people who create special memories for these families. I am proud to be associated with such a truly wonderful organization and have taken my staff out to volunteer there as well!!
Looking for a charity to support then look no further. The work they do to support the families of deserving children is incredible considering they are non-profit and many of the people helping and supporting them are volunteers. To see the look of awe on the face of the families receiving their 'dream' is truly inspiring. From a personal point of view as a volunteer, this organization has a canny way of bringing the best out your children. They appreciate what they have in life and want to make a difference for families supported by the Sunshine Foundation! A win-win for all! Thank you Sunshine Foundation for bring a little Sunshine and compassion into our lives.
I have been an active volunteer with the foundation for the past 12 years. Amazing job they do for those children and their families
The Sunshine Foundation gave my autistic daughter the trip of a lifetime to Orlando for a Disney world dream come true. They paid for our flight, lodging, and tickets to Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World and Lego Land. They even provided spending money! The Sunshine Foundation not only grants wishes, but it changes lives! Thank you Sunshine Foundation for everything you do for our special needs community!!!
I am a volunteer for the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village. I get to see day to day what the hard work of the staff of the Foundation means to the children and their families. When they walk through the door of the Dream Village, their stress and trouble seem to melt away and then fun can begin. The families are so grateful to have family time that is not centered around hospital visits and doctors but instead magical theme parks, characters and swimming pools. I just love seeing the smiles on the kids faces as they are enjoying their time at the village. It is truly heart warming to witness.
Had a call back from them within days having our sons wish granted- went above and beyond- it was so special I didn’t believe it was real!
My son was 4 at the time and he’s now 30 but still remembers the trip- we also had the pleasure of being personally attended to by the original man himself- bill.
Amazing organization with a heart for children that is awe inspiring. They do more than just give gifts and trips they make children's biggest wish’s come true and impact their lives.
The Sunshine Foundation is the only organization that I have found that would accept my child’s dream application. He’s severe nonverbal autistic. Even though my child’s dream hasn’t been granted yet every part of this process has been all positive. The staff has went above and beyond to help us with this process and keeps me updated. We’re extremely excited to be working with this amazing nonprofit organization!
I have been a volunteer and donor for Sunshine Foundation for over a decade. I always feel so appreciated for my service when volunteering, even though I feel I am getting more out of it than they are. Sunshine Foundation is such a great cause that is doing so much for deserving children in need. Sunshine Foundation has also supported my fundraising efforts by attending, and sharing pictures and information on social media. The president, Kate Sample, cares so much about the cause and she spreads sunshine wherever she goes.
We volunteered with this amazing organization. This organization helps so many children and we are amazed at the work they do. We will always support The Sunshine Foundation!
My daughter & I absolutely love being able to volunteer and spread awareness for The Sunshine Foundation. We have seen first hand the impact it makes on the children they help! We encourage everyone to get involved because the dreams they grant and the smiles they bring are priceless for these children and their families.
I hold this organization close to my heart. I have seen the happiness first hand that has been brought on to families that have gone through immense adversities. The works that The Sunshine Foundation does on a day to day basis is truly amazing. Everyone that has a hand in this organization are superheroes in my book!
This foundation is doing amazing things for children and their families that they may have never experienced!!
Sunshine Foundation helped our son reach his dream vacation at Disney World, among other things he was able to do. They were always responsive. We are so grateful for them.
Sunshine Foundation gave our family the best time of our lives. We got to stay at the Dream Village and go to Disney World. No therapies, no doctor visits, just relaxation and fun. We are all so grateful.
I think this Non Profit Charity plays a viable part in children's lives who are disabled. The smiles on their faces is beautiful. So many of the families would not be able to afford to help their child in this way.
I've been a Volunteer now for about 3 years, and I feel it's a worthwhile cause.
CM
Amazing non profit that grants dreams of children from all over. We are greatful to be volunteers and assist when needed. They are very friendly, helpful and involved within the community.
Wow, what can I say. The Sunshine Foundation goes above and beyond for their community. I’ve loved working with this organization for nearly 2 years now as a volunteer and thankful my son loves volunteering with me there.
Amazing place! This organization gives back so much to the community. For the past 10 years we have seen so many families visit the Dream Village and so many dreams come true for children dealing with life altering illnesses and trauma. The Sunshine Foundation provides them an opportunity to smile and laugh and just be kids and we are better because of the time we have spent volunteering our time with them in hopes we can bring a little sunshine to these precious children. The founders Bill and Kate Sample had a wonderful vision and we are blessed to see it thrive and succeed !
I have been involved with the Sunshine Foundation as a volunteer and a member of their Annual Gala Committee for a number of years. The thing that particularly stands out to me is the high percentage of the dollars raised that goes directly to helping the children and families to fulfill their dream trips.
Jim Marshall - Davenport FL
The Sunshine Foundation is truly an amazing organization. Their commitment to make children's dreams come true, changes the lives they touch. I have worked with this organization for 3 years and it have been one of the most fulfilling adventures I have been on in my life. I love watching the face of a child that has their wish granted but more so I love the faces of the parents. They are able to see their child smiling from ear to ear and for just a short time, their child is like every other child in the world void of their life challenges. I can not say enough of how special the Sunshine Foundation is and the people who run the organization are.
The sunshine foundation is an organization that operates in my local community and I love the way it helps not just the child with difficulties but the whole family.
I also appreciate that a huge percentage of people's hard earned monies that are donated go to the dreamers not to some big corporate office .
A true non-profit organization giving much needed respite and fulfilling dreams of worthy children and families whose lives are less fortunate than others. The love, compassion and enthusiasm of people involved in this organization is contagious. Seeing the awe and excitement on the dreamers when their dreams are fulfilled is rewarding and drives volunteers to work harder to fulfill as many dreams as possible.
This is a totally amazing organization! My family has volunteered and our experiences have always been outstanding. The dedication of its staff members are amazing, showing determination in succeeding with their prime objective. This is by far my favorite nonprofit organization. Keep up the good work Sunshine Foundation!
The Sunshine Foundation in Florida is so caring and giving to the families that come to have a vacation. I have attended events and made donations to help keep this going. It’s a blessing for so many families with sick children. Just to see the smiles on their faces is a blessing.
So, donate, volunteer, support this non profit.
Sincerely,
Jo Bailey
I love the Sunshine Foundation. I have had the pleasure to be a volunteer for over 15 years and have seen the love this foundation shares with each child and their families. It is about letting each family have their time in the SUN, away from doctors, counselor and the turbulence of everyday. It is about creating fun memories together at an event, a vacation or with a new toy. I am beyond proud of my family's involvement with the Sunshine Foundation and each family I have seen get their time in the SUN.
This organization is amazing with the core objective of spreading sunshine and happiness to children in need. To see the look on the faces of children experiencing a wish come true - is truly a gift. And I know that my donations - both monetary and items used for auctions - goes right to the foundation.
The Sunshine Foundation is the epitome of a children’s charity. I have been a volunteer with the foundation for about 8 years. During that time I have seen the faces of so many children coming through the doors of the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village receiving their dream come true. I’ve seen the stress fall off the parent’s shoulders knowing that for a week, they can enjoy their families and have some much needed and deserved fun. To see a child flourish and come alive in person is an amazing and heartwarming experience. The Sunshine Foundation is our family’s charity of choice and will always be near and dear to our hearts. We love the work they do for children and their families.
I'm a volunteer with the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village and am very proud to do so. All the staff work tirelessly to help the families be able to stay at the Dream Village and provide a dream excursion or provide items that will positively impact the families lives. It is humbling to see the families stories and so worthwhile to be able to help. Thank you.
Claire R.
The Sunshine Dream Village is an amazing place. I have had the opportunity to visit and volunteer for this organization and I can't say enough about it. They are my set charity through Amazon whenever I make a purchase.
I have had the pleasure of working with the Sunshine Foundation for many years. The work they do is indispensable to these kids and their families! We are honored to support them by hosting their annual Miss Sunshine Foundation Pageant raising much needed funds for the families they provide to. In a hectic world, it’s easy to forget that there are many who need the important work that the Sunshine Foundation provides. These kids and families may never otherwise experience this kind of love and joy that a Sunshine Foundation Dream trip can give them. Providing lasting memories and a sense of normalcy!
I've had the honor of working with the most wonderful volunteers who's amazing generosity and unwavering support help the Sunshine Foundation answer the dreams of children. The past 44 years Sunshine has answered over 40,000 dreams of chronically ill, physically challenged and abused children ages 3 to 18 and has made an incredible impact in the life these very special children.
I have worked with Sunshine Foundation as a volunteer for over 5 years. They make dreams come true for children who are chronically ill, physically challenged, or abused. The experience that the child has when they receive their dream come true is life-changing. It has a positive effect on the whole family. They forget about the medical issues and doctors and just bond as a family without all of that hanging over their heads. It helps the child to know that their dreams matter and that there are people that care about them.
I have been fortunate to not only to meet some amazing people but see firsthand the impact of a dream in the children lives and their families. Bill Sample was truly a very special man who dedicated his life to making a difference in others.
This organization has a great group of dedicated staff and volunteers that truly enjoy making dreams come true. They go beyond expectations to put a smile and inspire hope in the children and families they serve. It has been a pleasure to volunteer with them.
Thank you for the opportunity.
I spent many years volunteering for the Sunshine Foundation, a wonderful and caring place. There is a village of cute cottages, each with a different theme, for the families to stay while enjoying themselves at Disney World and other parks; also has a swimming pool and games to play. Wanda is a very caring person who goes out of her way to ensure the dreams of the chronically ill, physically challenged & abused children are fulfilled, sometimes it is a trip to Sea World, Disney World or maybe a new computer or iPod. At Christmas Santa arrives with presents. They are also very successful with their fundraisers to help the children. I am very proud to have been part of this organization.
I have been a volunteer for the Sunshine Foundation at the Dream Village for 15 years and have witnessed the impact on the children, their families, volunteers and the community.
The Village is a 'safe place' that provides a respite for them. Countless families have said it was the first family vacation they had been able to take or the first care free time their child had. That joy can be seen on all the happy faces at the Dream Village.
As a volunteer, the time spent helping feels great and keeps life in perspective. There are so many sorrows yet also so much to be thankful for. The Dream Village is definitely a blessing!
I worked at the sunshine foundation as a volunteer and I saw first hand how the kids reacted when they arrived and saw where they were going to stay for the next few days. It was wonderful to watch.
I am a volunteer for this great organization, greeting families at Orlando Airport that are arriving for their child's "Dream Visit". The work and dedication of the staff and many volunteers is nothing short of extraordinary. The happiness and gratitude of the families arriving is priceless - this work is so rewarding to be helping out with such a worthwhile group.
Sunshine Foundation is a non-profit genuinely dedicated to their mission of granting the wishes of children, both terminally and chronically ill. These are children that would likely never have the opportunity to see their dreams come true if it weren’t for Sunshine!
I have been volunteering with the Sunshine Foundation for almost 10 years on their event committees... such an awesome group of individuals and employees that come together to make dreams come true!
The sunshine foundation is amazing the work they do helps thousands if not millions of kids live out their dreams. They provide a beautiful village for the children and their families to stay at, the cottages have little kitchenettes and they provide all the toiletries and a washer and dryer free of charge on the property. The staff is very courteous, knowledgeable, friendly and they go above and beyond to make sure their families have the best experience.
The Sunshine Foundation’s sole purpose is to answer the dreams of chronically ill, seriously ill, physically challenged and abused children ages three to eighteen, whose families cannot fulfill their requests due to financial strain that the child’s illness may cause. Philadelphia police officer Bill Sample founded Sunshine Foundation in 1976 and they have answered over 36,000 dreams since it's inception. I have proudly been a member and supported this fine Organization for the past thirty years and have experienced the wonderful difference these dreams can make in both the child's and families lives. They need your help and support today ! Please check out the website to get mor information: sunshinefoundation.org/