Dreams Come True of Jacksonville, Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia’s only locally based dream-granting organization for local children battling life-threatening illnesses, kicked off their third annual Dream Day Fundraising Campaign this month. The campaign is one of Dreams Come True’s signature programs, organized to raise funds for the programs and services of the nonprofit organization, while also raising money to host an annual celebration exclusively for dream children and their families. The magical celebration, known as Dream Day, is hosted by PRI Productions in Jacksonville.
Dream Day was created for the sole purpose to provide an unforgettable day for local children and families in need of a break from their day-to-day struggles with life-threatening illnesses. The celebration is part of Dreams Come True’s Special Times program, which provides the dream child and his or her family opportunities to enjoy special activities they may not otherwise get to experience. It may be dinner at a favorite restaurant, tickets to a Jacksonville Jaguars game, a relaxing evening at the movies, a day of beauty, concert tickets or even a special celebration. Whatever the opportunity, Special Times reminds the children and their families they are special and loved.
Earlier this year, Dreams Come True hosted their second annual Dream Day celebration on June 6 at PRI Productions.
Thirty two children and their families arrived at PRI Productions by limousine or in one of The Main Street Cruise’s antique classic cars, for a grand entrance into Dream Day. As they arrived, they saw their name in lights on a jumbo video screen outside the doors of PRI Productions. Once they stepped out on the red carpet, they were greeted by Willy Wonka and several characters, including Anna and Elsa from Frozen. After an emotional walk down the red carpet, and a special greeting by members of the Jacksonville Jaguars, each dreamer was ushered into PRI Productions for more excitement. Each child was escorted to a dream station and transformed into their favorite princess or superhero. With music, games, magic, food and fun, the celebration created endless smiles and memories for the young heroes in the First Coast Community who are battling life-threatening illnesses.
“The struggles never end for these precious dreamers we serve, and Dream Day is a perfect way to bring hope and joy in a child’s life when they need it the most,” said Dreams Come True Executive Director, Sheri Criswell. “Not only do we have the chance to impact a child and their family outside of their dream, but this event also allows individuals and businesses in our community to be part of the magic through their sponsorships or volunteerism.”
Dreams Come True and PRI Productions are already planning Dream Day for Saturday, June 11, 2016. The support from local businesses and individuals is needed to help raise funds that will support the Dream Day celebration and the programs and services of Dreams Come True. Those interested in learning more about Dream Day and the annual Dream Day Campaign, can visit www.dreamscometrue.org or call (904) 296-3030.
