Editor’s note: Courtney Parker is assistant manager of development at GKTW, where she works with groups who are volunteering and fundraising to support our mission. On today’s blog, Courtney introduces you to the Mickey Maniacs.
Every day at Give Kids The World Village I get to meet so many dedicated volunteer groups – from college students and religious organizations, to corporations from all over the country. On May 18, we welcomed a wonderful group back to the Village: the Mickey Maniacs!
For 19 years, the Mickey Maniacs, made up of students and parents from Larose Cut-Off Middle School in Louisiana, has held fundraisers and events in support of the Village. They even make an annual visit to the Village to present the money they raised and to spend time volunteering.
This year, they presented a check for over $60,000 to the Village, bringing their total donations to more than $967,000! Over the past few years, I’ve been able to see firsthand the dedication and enthusiasm they have for the Village.
It amazes me that this community of no more than 8,000 people comes together to give so graciously in support of Give Kids The World. And it all started because Michelle Plaisance, the organizer of Mickey Maniacs, happened to pick up a Give Kids The World brochure while visiting Walt Disney World.
While they were here most recently, they hosted a party for wish families and volunteered to make props and clean up around the Village. They also dedicated the brand new mini-bowling lane located in the Amberville Arcade, called Dillion’s Den. We even got to celebrate Michelle’s birthday with a cake, plaque and her very own key to the Village!
We are so thankful to the Mickey Maniacs for their continued dedication to the Village. From Brayden’s Express, to our Towne Hall aquarium, to Dillion’s Den, the Maniacs’ contributions have helped make the Village what it is today.
Want to find out how you can create your own fundraisers for Give Kids The World? Click here to help create happiness and hope for the families we serve.
Courtney Parker works on the Development team at Give Kids The World Village. A graduate of the University of Central Florida, she’s been at the Village for four years and has loved working with wish families, school groups, church groups, and different organizations to achieve their fundraising goals. If you have any questions about fundraising or how you can help the Village, contact Courtney at CourtneyP@gktw.org.
