Considering all the happiness that Walt Disney brings everyday to kids and adults alike — with its movies, characters, merchandise, and theme parks — it’s no wonder they are also an extremely charitable company. Walt Disney strives to improve the lives of kids, families and communities, as well as make the environment and work place more functional atmospheres.
One of Disney’s most prominent campaigns is called Disney VoluntEAR program. The initiative, which started-up in 1991, participates in numerous community-strengthening projects throughout the year. There are 13,000 employees, close to 5,000 volunteers and contributes more than 40,000 hours of community services.
Disney VoluntEARS aims to support education, health, environmental, arts and social service concerns. Some past partnerships include The Blind Children’s Learning Center, Community Action Partnership Food Bank, Children’s Hospital of Orange County, AIDS Services Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
Additionally, some of their environmental promises include zero waste, zero net direct greenhouse gas fuel emissions, reduced indirect greenhouse gas emissions from electricity consumption, net positive impact on ecosystems, minimize water use, minimize product footprint, and inform, empower and activate positive action for the environment.
Founded in 1923 by Walt and Roy Disney, the Disney Company has created some of the most memorable characters and entertainment for kids in history. Disney films not only create fond memories, but also serve as good life lessons for young children.
Since Disney touches the lives of so many people, they believe it is their duty to be as positive a role model as possible. For instance, Disney does not endorse smoking or drinking in their movies for risk of children viewing it in a positive light. This also helps parents reinforce some the more positive messages, often neglected by other forms of media.
Highlights
- Disney positively influenced children through the films, television, and merchandise since 1923.
- Employing eco-friendly practices since 1948.
- Disney VoluntEARS program, founded in 1991, helps extends educational programs to thousands of children throughout the country.
Photo by M.Minderhoud on WikiCommons
