Disney Parks and Resorts recently brought together leaders from 60 nonprofit organizations from around the country for a two-day symposium focused on how adults can make a difference in children’s lives.
The symposium, titled ‘Discover Together,’ took place at the Disneyland Resort and included one day that was dedicated to research and measuring success for nonprofits. Disney also offered attending nonprofits a full day of Disney Institute’s Leadership Excellence training.
The purpose of the symposium was to help the participating nonprofits share experiences and best practices, in addition to using the tools provided to create stronger programs that will benefit their communities.
Participants in the symposium heard from several speakers including Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
“At Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we’re fundamentally committed to nurturing, inspiring and empowering children and their families,” said Staggs. “Through our work with community organizations, we provide support to address a wide range of kids’ and families’ immediate needs – from school supplies to hot meals. Beyond that, our focus is on creating opportunities to strengthen bonds between children and the influential adults in their lives.
Leaders from the Search Institute provided participants with the American Family Assets Study. In the study it was noted that kids who have support from family on 21 “assets” are three times more likely to take personal responsibility and keep their commitments, in addition to being twice as likely to get mostly A’s in school.
The study was made possible through a grant from Disney Parks and Resorts.
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts has also provided support to KaBOOM! to launch the “America’s Most Playful Family” contest which officially kicked off on January 29. The contest is designed to elevate dialogue about how families spend time playing together. The grand prize winner will be announced in May and will receive a Disney Parks vacation and the chance to work with KaBOOM! to grant an Imagination Playground to a nonprofit organization in their home state.
