It is a truly a blessing to be able to fulfill some of the wishes that children with life-threatening illnesses find themselves dreaming about.
And last year alone, Give Kids The World (GKTW) in Kissimmee granted an incredible 7,337 wishes. Since its inception in 1986, the local non-profit has been able to grant 120,537 wishes.
GKTW is a 70-acre, non-profit resort in Central Florida that creates magical memories for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The organization provides accommodations at its whimsical resort, donated attractions tickets, meals and more for a week long, cost-free fantasy vacation.
Ethan Durham of Texas attended GKTW in November last year. "When I think of our time there, it brings tears to my eyes," Amy Durham, Ethan's mother said. "I know that, never again, will my family - especially my son, be made to feel SO incredibly special. We were treated like royalty!"
With the help of many generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations, GKTW has welcomed more than 120,000 families from all 50 states and over 70 countries.
Now a local vocational school is helping to fulfill some of the needs and wishes of the Village. In fact, auto instructors from the Orlando campus of Universal Technical Institute (UTI) have been donating routine maintenance services to all fleet vehicles the non-profit manages for the last eight months.
“Our contribution to Give Kids The World is two-fold,” said Richard Smith, a UTI Orlando auto and marine instructor. “Through preventative maintenance and routine diagnostics, we keep their vehicles running smoothly and help them avoid potentially serious auto repair bills. This has been an excellent way for our instructors to give back and at the same time, showcase the type of training we offer our students.”
“As a nonprofit, we value the in-kind service that Universal Technical Institute provides,” said Give Kids The World President Pamela Landwirth. “The vehicles that transport our guests, staff and volunteers around the Village are important in our day-today functions. We thank UTI for helping us continue our mission of providing the happiness that inspires hope for children with life-threatening illnesses around the world.”
UTI is the leading provider of post-secondary education for students seeking careers as professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians.
Amy Durham added that her family is "forever grateful to all the volunteers and corporations who help Give Kids The World continue to serve families such as ours. It's truly a magical place!"
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