The Walt Disney Company announced its participation in the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena with its “Disney Celebrates America” entry, designed as a patriotic tribute to the nation’s 250th anniversary. This vibrant entry celebrates the country’s semiquincentennial in uniquely Disney ways, leaning into the dreams, stories, and optimism that have touched the lives of people across the country and around the world for the past century.

Leading the procession will be a Disneyland vehicle carrying Mickey Mouse and friends adorned with patriotic décor and red, white and blue flowers. They will be joined by more than 50 U.S. military veterans who now serve as Disney cast members and their families, symbolizing the company’s deep appreciation for those who have served our country and now help create magic for millions. The selection of the flowers on the vehicle holds special meaning for those who serve our country in uniform.

Each of the vibrant flowers on the car hold significance for military veterans. They include the red poppies widely recognized as a symbol of remembrance for fallen military personnel dating back to World War I. Other flowers featured in Disney’s entry include rosemaries, blue irises, white lilies, chrysanthemums and red roses to express love, honor, and appreciation for veterans everywhere.

This milestone is an opportunity to honor Walt Disney’s enduring love of country and our century-long support for those who serve — a legacy that began with Walt and Roy O. Disney’s contributions during the First World War and continues today. As part of this celebration, Disney is proud to highlight U.S. military veterans working across the company as well as our expanded support for military families — including a $2.5 million donation to Blue Star Families.

“The Walt Disney Company is proud to participate in the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade as part of our ‘Disney Celebrates America’ initiative honoring our nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “Both Disney and the Tournament of Roses Parade have long celebrated the spirit of America and the people who make it extraordinary — including our service members, veterans, and their families. By featuring our own veteran cast members, we’re excited to kick off the year at this iconic event and share the Disney magic that connects generations.”

For more than a century, Disney’s storytelling has celebrated American ideals — honoring the nation’s past, present, and future. Disney invites families everywhere to commemorate America’s historic 250^th anniversary through special events, new attractions like Soarin’ Across America, expanded support for military families and a multi-platform broadcast event on July 4. On 4^th of July weekend, Disney parks in the United States will feature themed fireworks and events, and programming across ABC, National Geographic and ESPN will highlight American heroes, traditions and communities.

ABC will broadcast live coverage of the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California on January 1, beginning at 11 a.m. ET. The two-hour broadcast will be hosted by ESPN SportsCenter anchors Kevin Negandhi and Hannah Storm, both returning to the event, along with longtime reporter John Naber.

Learn more about Disney’s extensive celebration of America’s 250^th anniversary here.

The holidays have always been a time for gathering, joy, and traditions — and for generations, Disney has been at the heart of those celebrations. From the earliest days of Disneyland in 1955 to today’s global parks, resorts, and cruise line experiences, the holiday season has become one of the most cherished times for Disney fans around the world.

A Tradition That Began in 1955

When Disneyland opened its gates in 1955, the holidays quickly became a centerpiece of the guest experience. That first Christmas season featured carolers and festive décor, setting the stage for traditions that would endure for decades. Just three years later, Walt Disney personally introduced the Candlelight Processional in 1958 — a moving ceremony combining a mass choir, live orchestra, and narration of the Christmas story. Today, this beloved event continues at Disneyland and EPCOT, drawing thousands of guests each season.

Over the years, Disney expanded its holiday offerings across the globe. In 1983, Walt Disney World debuted Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which evolved from a single-night celebration into a multi-week extravaganza featuring parades, fireworks, and exclusive treats, and Jollywood Nights began bringing seasonal magic to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2023. At Disneyland, seasonal overlays like Haunted Mansion Holiday and “it’s a small world” Holiday became fan favorites, reinforcing Disney’s commitment to making the holidays magical in ways only Disney can.

A Global Gathering Place

Disney parks have long been a destination for families and friends to come together during the holidays. Across the globe, each park celebrates the season in ways that reflect its local culture and traditions — while staying true to the Disney magic that unites guests everywhere.

At Tokyo Disney Resort, the holidays sparkle with distinctly Japanese touches, blending Disney storytelling with seasonal customs that resonate with local guests. Disneyland Paris transforms into a festive European market, creating moments that are both authentic to the area, yet unmistakably Disney. In Hong Kong and Shanghai, holiday celebrations, which then transition to Chinese New Year, incorporate regional flavors and traditions, from décor to unique entertainment offerings that honor local heritage.

“When we design holiday experiences, we’re thinking about more than lights and music — we’re creating traditions that families will carry with them for generations,” David Lightbody, Senior Vice President, Disney Live Entertainment, said. “Every parade, every song, every shared moment is part of a story that connects grandparents, parents, and children in a way that feels timeless.”

Holiday Magic at Sea

In 1998, Disney Cruise Line brought holiday celebrations to the high seas with the launch of the Disney Magic. Soon after, the line introduced Very Merrytime Cruises, transforming ships into floating winter wonderlands adorned with shimmering garlands, nautical-themed Christmas trees, and life-sized gingerbread displays. Guests enjoy festive entertainment, holiday-themed menus, and special character experiences — all while sailing to tropical destinations. Today, these cruises run from early November through December, offering families a unique way to make Disney part of their holiday traditions — even while crossing oceans.

Giving Back to Communities

Disney’s holiday giving legacy dates back nearly 80 years, beginning with Walt Disney’s collaboration with Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks in 1948 to create the Toys for Tots logo and first national poster. Walt even produced a short film encouraging toy donations, and Disneyland became an official drop-off location when it opened in 1955.

That spirit of generosity continues today through the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive, which in 2025 includes Stitch traveling the globe as part of the Disney Holiday Magic Tour. This year’s efforts feature immersive shopping experiences for families in need, toy distribution events, and VoluntEARS working alongside Marines to sort and deliver thousands of toys. Over the years, Disney has donated millions of toys to kids in need around the world.

Holiday Magic Beyond the Parks

Disney’s holiday spirit extends far beyond its destinations. This year, one-of-a-kind activations like the Selfridges holiday pop-up in London — a massive Disney takeover called “A Most Magical Christmas” — transforms the Oxford Street store with an 11-meter castle facade, Disney-themed windows, exclusive merchandise, themed cafés, and nightly light shows featuring beloved characters and nostalgic scenes. This created a truly immersive, magical experience through the festive season that brings Disney magic to iconic shopping destinations throughout the UK.

As the #1 global licensor, Disney brings holiday magic to millions around the world through consumer products that celebrate the season in true Disney style.

For 70 years, Disney has been part of holiday traditions — creating spaces where families gather, communities thrive, and magic feels real. As we celebrate this season, we honor the past and look forward to continuing this legacy for generations to come.

Disney’s Global Holiday Magic

• Disney Parks are the most visited theme parks globally with 145 million guests annually (source: 2024 TEA report), with the holidays being one of the biggest seasons.
• Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade first aired in 1983, becoming a Christmas morning tradition for millions of families.
• Disney’s domestic theme parks alone generate nearly $67 billion in annual economic impact and support more than 403,000 jobs, underscoring Disney’s role as a cornerstone of America’s holiday economy.
• Disney is the #1 global licensor, with $63 billion in licensed product sales in 2024 extending holiday magic across the globe.
• Disney’s relationship with Toys for Tots dates back to 1948, with tens of thousands of toys donated annually.

As part of Disney’s ongoing $15 million commitment to help Los Angeles recover from the devastating wildfires that affected thousands in the area in January 2025, we joined hands with the Christmas Tree Lane Association to ensure one of Altadena’s most cherished traditions — the annual Lighting Ceremony — continues to shine bright. Disney directed $100,000 to help replace lights lost in the fires and strengthen infrastructure so the Lighting Ceremony remains a joyful experience for generations to come.

This past weekend, Disney was on hand to support the community during this beloved annual tradition. ABC News’ Good Morning America was also on hand to document the story.

“We were so honored to be a part of this cherished community celebration and have the chance to bring a little Disney holiday magic and joy to families — particularly during a year when this community has gone through so much,” Lisa Haines, SVP of Disney Corporate Social Responsibility, said. “We have called Los Angeles home for more than 100 years and we are committed to doing what we can to bring hope to the community as it continues to recover.”

The Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony was first organized in 1920 and is the oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas light display in the US. This year marked the 105th Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival, and Disney was honored to bring a touch of magic through the Disney VoluntEARS Village.

In the months leading up to the event, Disney VoluntEARS worked side by side with the Christmas Tree Lane Association to build and string lights in trees. On December 6, more than 7,500 guests walked through the Disney VoluntEARS Village, where 80 VoluntEARS, some of whom lost their own homes, hosted family-friendly activities designed to uplift and give back.

To give back even more to the community, Disney helped organize guests packing thousands of snack packs for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, benefitting students at Altadena schools. And, to make the event even more special, Disney donated more than 1,300 toys to kick off the collection with Toys for Tots and the Altadena Sheriff’s Department, ensuring local families in need receive holiday gifts.

It wouldn’t be an event that Disney was a part of without some character magic, as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, and Stitch greeted families and spread holiday cheer. While among those characters, families inside the Disney VoluntEARS Village painted a mural for the Christmas Tree Lane Association and decorated Mickey and Minnie-shaped ornaments to take home.

“We worked hand-in-hand with the Christmas Tree Lane Association to ensure our presence added to the spirit and long-cherished tradition of this event,” John Breckow, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility for Disney Experiences, said. “And the impact of our VoluntEARS activities — from the food kits assembled and toys collected to the mural painted by guests — will stay right here in Altadena, supporting the community that makes this night so special.”

Altadena’s Christmas Tree Lane was also a stop on the Disney Holiday Magic Tour, where Stitch is traveling the world to share holiday magic (and mischief) with schools, children’s hospitals, nonprofits and local communities where kids and families can use a little holiday happiness.

At Disney, giving is at the heart of what we do — from delivering moments of comfort and joy to children’s hospitals to donating toys to kids in need in collaboration with Toys for Tots. While we’re committed to supporting communities in need all throughout the year, we’re also proud to bring Disney Holiday Magic to those who need it most during the holiday season.

Did you know that Disney’s relationship with Toys for Tots began almost 80 years ago? An enduring legacy that began nationally in 1948 and continues today as Disney helps bring toys, joy, and holiday magic to millions of children in need during the holidays.

Honoring Service through Art

During World War II, The Walt Disney Studios played a unique role in supporting the war effort in several ways including creating military films and designing more than 1,200 custom unit insignia for U.S. Armed Forces and related auxiliary groups. These designs — featuring characters like the U.S. Navy’s ‘Seabee,’ and later, the U.S. Army’s ‘Rocky the Bulldog’ — became cherished symbols of pride and connection for troops serving at home and abroad.

But one of Walt Disney’s most enduring contributions came about after Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks, envisioned a program dedicated to bringing joy to children in need through the donation of toys. Walt responded with creativity and heart, sparking a nearly 80-year collaboration between The Walt Disney Company and Toys for Tots.

A Train of Generosity

Founded in 1947 in Los Angeles, Toys for Tots began as a local initiative to bring holiday joy to children in need. In 1948, the program was formalized and expanded into a national community action project, and Walt Disney assigned his studio artists to create designs that would help drive awareness for the campaign. Over the years, this would include the now-iconic red cartoon train logo, which remains the symbol of the program today.

Disney artists also created national campaign posters for Toys for Tots, and over the years, these annual Christmas posters have featured beloved characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and others, helping to spread the message of giving across generations.

As noted in the 2018 Disney Editions book From All of Us to All of You by author and historian Jeff Kurtti, “Throughout the years, Walt continued to support Toys for Tots, participating in public service advertising and helping the message of giving reach millions of U.S. citizens.”

Full Steam Ahead: A Tradition That Keeps on Track

Today, Disney continues to support Toys for Tots as part of its beloved holiday traditions, most notably through the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive. This initiative is dedicated to creating moments of happiness and joy for children and families in need during the holiday season.

Last year, over 500,000 toys were collected for donation around the world, with more than 400,000 toys going to the Marine Toys for Tots Program in the U.S. Thousands of employees and cast members spent more than 3,000 hours supporting the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive through Disney VoluntEARS, Disney’s employee volunteerism program.

This year, as part of the celebration, Disney is embarking on a Holiday Magic Tour across the country and around the world, spreading cheer through community events, donations, and moments of joy that make the season brighter for children and families everywhere.

You can make someone’s holiday magic and give the gift of giving! Join this year’s Disney Ultimate Toy Drive and donate a toy to Toys for Tots through December 24, 2025, or in person at Disney Stores, the Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort from now through December 14, 2025.

Giving is part of who we are at Disney, and we’re thrilled to continue giving back to our local communities in new and meaningful ways. To learn more, visit Disney.com/HolidayMagic.

This Veterans Day, The Walt Disney Company proudly honored the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces with heartfelt tributes across the company, including in our parks and resorts and throughout our programming on television, radio and more. From special events and flag-ceremony traditions to unique experiences for veteran cast members and guests, these moments reflect Disney’s century-long commitment to those who’ve served their country.

Join us as we look back at the ways Disney celebrated Veterans Day this year — captured in photos that tell the story of gratitude and respect.

Flag Retreat Ceremonies at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort

At both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, Disney parks honored cast members who served in uniform at special flag retreat ceremonies.

At Magic Kingdom park at Walt Disney World Resort, Disney recognized four cast members as “Veterans of the Year.” They had the honor of representing all Florida-based Disney employees who are veterans.

ESPN

ESPN incorporated show integrations across its television, digital, radio, and social platforms to honor veterans — including those who work at the preeminent sports network.

As part of ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown programming on November 9, ESPN hosted its first ever in-studio, live audience — comprised of ESPN and Disney veteran employees from across the U.S. Armed Forces, along with Veterans from Disabled American Veterans and Blue Star Families.

The Walt Disney Studios Lot

In Burbank, Disney hosted service members from Naval Base Ventura County (Port Hueneme) in collaboration with the USO for a special visit at the Walt Disney Studios lot, including a tour, followed by a taping of ABC and Hulu’s Shifting Gears.

Disney’s respect for the U.S. Armed Forces dates back more than a century, beginning with founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, who served their country during and after World War I. Disney is proud of its long legacy to support and honor our veterans. To learn more, visit Disney.com/Veterans.

For over a century, The Walt Disney Company has proudly supported, honored, and celebrated veterans and military families — including the thousands the company is honored to call its employees. 

That’s why every day at Disney is Veterans Day. 

And, this Veterans Day, Disney is shining a spotlight on just a few of those heroes who make magic for the company across the country.

Transitioning back to civilian life after a career in the military can have its challenges, and for the heroes highlighted in this spot, Disney offered an opportunity — not just for a new career, but also a chance to be seen, to feel supported, and to find purpose again in a place that respects where they’ve been and what they’ve sacrificed for their country.

Here’s a look at how Disney is honoring veterans through various activations and celebrations across the country. 

In October, Disney worked with United Service Organizations (USO) to invite veterans to field screenings of 20th Century Studios’ Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere in Houston, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Chicago. 

“Thanks Disney for tickets to the screening!” a U.S. Marine Corps service member who attended the Dallas screening said. “I have always been obsessed with ‘The Boss’ and it was a great date night out with my wife. We appreciate the support!”

ESPN also has been incorporating show integrations across its television, digital, radio, and social platforms to honor veterans — including those that work at the preeminent sports network.

As part of ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown programming on November 9, ESPN hosted its first ever in-studio, live audience — comprised of ESPN and Disney veteran employees from across the U.S. Armed Forces, along with Veterans from Disabled American Veterans and Blue Star Families. The show honored our Veterans throughout with special shoutouts of ESPN and Disney veteran employees in the audience, and involved Veterans in the audience to be a part of show segments including “You Got Mossed” with ESPN NFL Analyst and NFL Hall of Fame Wide Receiver Randy Moss.

Through ESPN’s annual America’s Heroes Veterans Week tribute, ESPN aired special programming, including the 10th Peraton Armed Forces Classic college basketball game to kick off ESPN’s Veterans Week recognition. Additional Veterans Week programming will include The Pat McAfee Show live from Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in South Carolina, and special features in College GameDay, Monday Night Countdown, Monday Night Football, SportsCenter, and throughout ESPN’s college sports coverage.

Disney Experiences honored service in a variety of ways, including sharing exciting news about discounts and special America 250 offers for U.S. military service members and retired veterans to experience the wonder of Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line in 2026.

Disney Parks and Muppet Studios also shared a message from none other than our favorite patriotic Muppet, Sam Eagle. The message was recorded at The American Adventure pavilion at EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

Flag ceremonies have been a daily tradition at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort since their openings in 1955 and 1971, respectively. The daily flag retreat ceremonies offer a heartfelt moment each day where the Disney community, guests, and cast members come together to pay tribute to veterans and active-duty military personnel.

Today, as part of an annual Veterans Day tradition, Disney parks honors cast members who served in uniform at special flag retreat ceremonies.

At Magic Kingdom, Disney will recognize four cast members as “Veterans of the Year” who have the honor of representing all Florida-based Disney employees who are veterans. The special salute will continue later at the Disneyland flag retreat ceremony where more than 150 cast members who are veterans will march down Main Street, U.S.A. before participating in the ceremony there.

In Burbank, Disney also invited service members from Naval Base Ventura County (Port Hueneme) in collaboration with the USO to a special visit at the Walt Disney Studios lot, including a tour of the Walt Disney Archives and Walt Disney’s personal office, followed by a taping of ABC and Hulu’s Shifting Gears.

Disney’s respect for the U.S. Armed Forces dates back more than a century, beginning with founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, who served their country during and after World War I. Disney is proud of its long legacy to support and honor our veterans. To learn more, visit Disney.com/Veterans.

This week, Make-A-Wish® hosted their global leadership conference at Walt Disney World Resort in celebration of their 45^th anniversary. The gathering underscored the meaningful impact they make around the world for kids with critical illnesses, and punctuated the longstanding relationship with The Walt Disney Company. 

As part of the event, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences and a member of the Make-A-Wish America Board of Directors, delivered a keynote address, speaking from the heart about the power of wishes, leadership and innovation, and the privilege Disney feels in supporting such a remarkable organization. 

A Legacy of Hope and Joy 

“For 45 years, Disney and Make-A-Wish have worked together to grant wishes for more than 170,000 children with critical illnesses worldwide,” D’Amaro shared with an audience of nearly 1,000 Make-A-Wish employees and leaders from around the globe. “These wishes have the power to transform lives and bring hope to those who need it most.” 

That legacy began with a single wish at Disneyland in 1981 and reached a new milestone this summer: the 170,000th Disney wish, fittingly granted at Disneyland for the park’s 70th anniversary. The wish belonged to Madison, a tech-loving 13-year-old whose dream was to learn from Disney Imagineers. At the end of her unforgettable experience, Madison had had the chance to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park, pilot several BDX droids, and was surprised with an honorary “Imagineer” name tag of her own.

A Wish Every Hour — And Always Innovating

As the world’s largest wish-granter for Make-A-Wish, Disney grants a wish every hour of every day. But for Disney, it’s never just about the numbers. It’s about constantly pushing the boundaries of what a wish can be. In 2025, that spirit of innovation reached new heights:

• Disney Week of Wishes: This year, The Walt Disney Company launched its first-ever “Disney Week of Wishes,” a weeklong company-wide campaign that showcased more than 170 signature wishes, harnessing the creativity and breadth of the company’s businesses to deliver innovative and magical experiences.  

• Once Upon A Wish Party: As part of Disney’s Week of Wishes, Walt Disney World Resort hosted nearly 50 wish families to step into their own storybook adventure, surrounded by beloved Disney Princesses and Cast Members who brought their dreams to life.
• The 170,000th Wish at Disneyland: Madison’s milestone wish was celebrated during Disneyland’s 70th anniversary, with Disney Imagineers opening their creative world to inspire the next generation of dreamers.
• A Disney Wish UK: A 2-night, 3-day immersive experience, with more than 30 characters, shows and special moments annually grants wishes for nearly 200 children who are not able to travel to the parks due to their circumstances. Now in its 5th year, this specially designed Disney family experience has welcomed over 4,000 guests, bringing the magic to them when they need it the most.

• A Frightfully Fun Wish with MrBeast and YouTube: For the first time, Disney, MrBeast, Make-A-Wish, and some of the world’s biggest content creators joined forces to host a Halloween celebration at Disneyland Resort for 40 wish kids. These influencers not only lent their time to grant wishes but also used their voices to raise awareness of the importance of Make-A-Wish. The event brought together top creators like Mark Rober, Like Nastya, and PrestonPlayz, each helping to make dreams come true in ways only Disney can imagine.

The Heart of Our Mission

At the conference, D’Amaro reflected on the privilege of supporting Make-A-Wish, and emphasizing the importance of creating “core memories” for kids facing critical illnesses. “We have over 200,000 Cast Members at The Walt Disney Company, and each one of them — whether they’ve worked on one wish or one hundred — shares the same pride in creating joyful core memories that change lives,” he said.

One of the most moving moments of the week was the celebration of Zeek, a wish kid whose dream was to become a Disney Cast Member. Zeek’s journey at Walt Disney World, supported by Cast Members and the Make-A-Wish team, was a powerful reminder of the impact a single wish can have — not just on a child, but on everyone involved. 

Another notable moment was a celebration of ESPN and their beloved “My Wish” series, which features sports-related Make-A-Wish stories and will celebrate 20 years since the start of the series this upcoming summer. The host of the series, Chris Connelly, was in attendance along with 11-year-old Bear who was featured in an episode this year for his wish to meet the Savannah Bananas.

A Privilege and a Promise

For Disney, supporting Make-A-Wish is more than a partnership — it’s a privilege and a responsibility. As D’Amaro told the audience, “While our relationship is 45 years old, there is so much more to come… and there is no telling how far we can go.”

The Walt Disney Company’s Imagineers — the creative minds behind some of the world’s most iconic experiences — are applying their visionary talents to help rebuild and reimagine public spaces that were lost in this year’s devastating wildfires across Los Angeles.

As part of its ongoing $15 million commitment to help LA recover from the disaster, Disney is directing $5 million to support the reopening of Altadena’s Charles White Park, which was destroyed in the January blaze. The revitalized park will feature a new community center and an enhanced playground infused with Disney magic to bring joy to families in the area for its anticipated reopening in 2026.

Since early this year, the Imagineers have been working closely with County staff to help reimagine the park in several ways, including site planning, landscape architecture, and playground design. Some Imagineers tragically lost their own homes in the fires, making their contributions to the community’s recovery even more meaningful. In addition to Charles White Park, Imagineers are supporting recovery efforts at two additional severely damaged Altadena parks.

“Los Angeles has been home to The Walt Disney Company since its founding more than a century ago, which is why we felt a special responsibility to help this community rebuild in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires earlier this year,” said Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “I’m incredibly proud of our Imagineers who are volunteering their time and talents to help reimagine cherished public spaces like Charles White Park. Their work is not only a testament to Disney’s creative spirit, but also to our deep commitment to our neighbors throughout this region. We hope this effort brings comfort, joy, and a sense of renewal to the Altadena community for years to come.”

The park enhancements will include play areas inspired by Altadena’s iconic Deodar Cedar pinecones, a whimsical splash pad, bridges, boulders, slides and swings that will create opportunities for imaginative play for kids of all ages. A new amphitheater will serve as a gathering place for performances and community events. Portions of the park that survived the fire will be carefully preserved, creating a meaningful blend of history and renewal.

“Knowing that Disney’s Imagineers will pour their time, talent, and compassion into Altadena’s recovery is truly inspiring,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “Their work on Charles White Park and other community spaces is more than restoration. It is a gift of hope, joy, and healing for families who have endured so much this year.”

This initiative reflects Disney’s enduring, multi-year commitment to helping restore Los Angeles — a city the company has proudly called home for over 100 years. Disney’s response began immediately after the fires and included initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts as teams across the company mobilized to provide urgent support. Employees organized donation drives, assembled hundreds of comfort kits and care packages, and honored local first responders with complimentary tickets to Disneyland Resort.

“Charles White Park continues to be an integral part of the Altadena community,” said Emily Dow, Studio Executive, Architecture and Design for Disney Imagineering. “Disney is honored to partner with Los Angeles County to help restore and reimagine this special place, ensuring families can gather, play, and make memories for generations to come.”

“I want to express my appreciation to the Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation and Disney for their tremendous efforts in making this transformative moment possible,” said Ian White, son of Charles White. “Having a place and space for gathering with friends and neighbors to exchange ideas and share reflections is incredibly meaningful, as our community has been spread across the Los Angeles County area due to the devastating and tragic Eaton Fire. What this building will represent in terms of programming possibilities and community engagement is monumental to the spirit of the park and Charles White’s life’s work.”

Disney is also supporting one of Altadena’s most cherished traditions: The Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival on December 6. First organized in 1920, this event is one of the oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas light displays in the world. The company will bring some signature Disney Magic to the lighting event, including character appearances, festive moments, and meaningful volunteer opportunities to support families in need during the season. Disney also will help support the community’s annual toy drive with a donation of more than 1,000 toys that evening.

In addition, Disney has been bringing joy to local students in Pacific Palisades, Brentwood and Altadena through “Disney Field Days.” These highly immersive experiences featured themed activities from Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm, offering hands-on activities, interactive games, and visits from classic Disney characters. Disney also provided its films for 60 family movie nights across locations in LA county during September and October.

Learn more about Disney’s support for Los Angeles following the wildfires here.

The Walt Disney Company is committing $1 million to assist with critical relief and recovery efforts following the impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.

This contribution will assist Disney cast and crew in the region, as well as nonprofits providing immediate aid including UNICEF USA, World Central Kitchen and Good360. The funds will help provide emergency supplies, food, shelter and other essential services to families and communities working to rebuild after the storm.

Disney Cruise Line has maintained a port presence in Jamaica for over a decade.

“Our hearts go out to the people of Jamaica who have experienced such terrible devastation from Hurricane Melissa, including our Disney employees and their families who call the island home,” said Bob Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “We hope this contribution and the ongoing support from our team will serve as a source of relief and comfort for those in need at this difficult time.”

This donation is part of the year-round support Disney provides during times of crisis and natural disasters that impact communities where we live and work​. This support includes the Disney Employee Relief Fund, which helps cast, crew and employees recover from times of crisis or personal disaster.

Learn more about how the company’s disaster relief efforts support employees and communities year-round. For more information about how Disney gives back to Disney Cruise Line port communities around the world, visit DisneyExperiences.com and Disney Cruise Line Crew & Community on Facebook.

The Walt Disney Company is celebrated worldwide for its groundbreaking innovation—whether dazzling audiences with cinematic magic or reimagining what’s possible inside its theme parks. But that same spirit of creativity and forward-thinking shines just as brightly in the company’s approach to making dreams come true for Make-A-Wish kids.Disney grants a wish every hour of every day for critically ill children, continually pushing the boundaries of what a wish can be. Last week, Disney Experiences marked the Halloween season with A Frightfully Fun Wish — a first-of-its-kind celebration for 40 wish kids and their families at Disneyland Resort that blended the immersive storytelling and joy of Disney Parks with the excitement of some of the world’s top creators.

“We are always innovating and dreaming up exciting new ways to make wishes come true,” Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, said. “Teaming up with today’s most influential creators was the perfect way to deliver a truly one-of-a-kind Disney wish.”Make-A-Wish, Disney, MrBeast and YouTube came together to host creators like Mark Rober, Like Nastya, and PrestonPlayz for the event that created personalized experiences for the kids that turned their dreams — whether meeting favorite creators, exploring Disneyland, or enjoying magical surprises — into reality.

When Make-A-Wish reached out to MrBeast, letting him know that there were multiple kids with a wish to meet him, he reached out to Disney — the world’s leading wish-granter — about doing something big.From there, the idea got even bigger, with MrBeast inviting other creators to join him, supersizing the event and pushing the boundaries of what a wish experience can be.Requests for wishes through Make-A-Wish involving digital creators have more than doubled over the past decade. Recognizing this shift, Disney saw Halloween Time at the parks as the perfect setting to create something authentic and special.These types of wishes are powerful to kids facing critical illnesses, and the creators involved can share this cause with their hundreds of millions of followers.“Make-A-Wish and Disney share so many of the core values that guide our work at Beast Philanthropy to use virality for global good. This is such a special and unforgettable experience to share with these kids and their families and it’s humbling to be a part of it,” Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast), said.

Embracing the Challenge

While Disney is no stranger to large-scale wish-granting events — such as Once Upon a Wish Party and Blaze Your Path: A Star Wars Adventure — teaming up with top creators opened up all-new possibilities for an innovative wish-granting spectacular.Each wish was crafted through close collaboration among the creators, Make-A-Wish, and Disney cast members, who worked to ensure that the experience reflected each child’s personality and interests.

For the 16 kids who wished to meet MrBeast, the day began with an epic scavenger hunt through Disneyland park. Guided by clues and MrBeast’s crew, the kids made their way through the park until they reached Sleeping Beauty Castle, where MrBeast himself was waiting to greet them.Knowing that a lot of the kids wished to be in a MrBeast video, he and his team recreated miniature versions of 16 of their videos, allowing the kids to play and compete and enjoy a memorable experience.“The best part of the day was just seeing the joy on their faces when they got to do it,” MrBeast said.Elsewhere, wish kid Makayla spent the afternoon in a dream playdate with A for Adley, filled with crafts, Disney dolls, and rounds of Adley’s game, Rainbow Ghost Rescue.Over at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, science creator Mark Rober helped families design egg-drop contraptions, which were then launched from an overlook near the Millennium Falcon by Science Bob.Others brought their own brand of magic to the experience. Chef Amaury Guichon hosted a live chocolate-making demonstration, while Doctor Mike built a custom lightsaber with wish kid Om. Sam & Colby took two wish kids on a spirited ride through Haunted Mansion Holiday.

The weekend culminated in a grand finale celebration at the Hollywood Backlot in Disney California Adventure park. Transformed into a Halloween wonderland, the A Frightfully Fun Wish party featured a Feastables game zone, YouTube’s Creator Corner, themed games, a dance floor, and appearances by beloved Disney characters. Chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro and Disneyland Resort President Thomas Mazloum welcomed families to the event, which served as both a joyful conclusion and a heartfelt tribute to the courage of the wish kids and their families.

“At the Heart of Disney” 

With Disney’s special place in the hearts and minds of children and families, its scale, and its reach, it has become the world’s leading wish-granter for Make-A-Wish — having granted over 170,000 wishes together since 1981.“Granting wishes and creating magic is at the heart of Disney,” D’Amaro said. “Part of our purpose is to shine a spotlight on the importance of wish-granting in the lives of children with critical illnesses. Events like this provide not only a great experience for wish kids, but a chance for Make-A-Wish and Disney to highlight this shared goal.”

Spreading Joy with Creators

Disney continues to adapt its legacy of magic-making to meet the moment, showing its commitment to wish-granting remains as strong as ever.The inclusion of creators and a platform like YouTube added a new dimension to the event, amplifying its reach and impact.

“It’s thrilling to combine forces with other wish-granters who are equally passionate about this work, like MrBeast, who can share this important cause to hundreds of millions of their followers.” D’Amaro said. “The more that people realize how powerful these wishes are to kids facing critical illnesses, the more wishes we can grant, the more kids we can reach, and the more impact we can make together with Make-A-Wish.”To learn more about how Disney delivers happiness and joy when it’s needed most, visit Joy.Disney.com.

For decades, Disney has delivered joy and comfort to seriously ill children around the world, and the company’s commitment to pediatric patients continues to lift spirits — especially during the Halloween season. For years, Disney has joined with the Starlight Children’s Foundation to deliver not-so-scary Halloween cheer to children’s hospitals. Since 2021, Disney’s donations have reached over 80,000 pediatric patients, according to Starlight.Through its annual Halloween donations, Disney has gifted more than 52,000 costumes, 25,000 books, 10,000 accessories, and to children’s hospitals, helping kids who may not be able to participate in traditional Halloween activities still celebrate the holiday in style.And this season will be no different, as Disney is donating thousands more costumes, toys, and books to kids. With the help of Starlight Children’s Foundation, the donations will be made available to a network of more than 800 children’s hospitals and pediatric places of care.“Our collaboration with Starlight Children’s Foundation during the Halloween season is a beautiful reflection of how we work together year-round to bring comfort and joy to children in hospitals,” Alisa Bowen, President of Disney+ and Starlight Children’s Foundation board member, said. “When a child receives a Disney costume, toy, or other gift, it’s so much more than just a fun item — it’s a chance to spark imagination, create their own story, and hold onto a joyful memory during a challenging time.”

These donations include adaptive Disney costumes for children, inspired by beloved characters and stories like Cinderella, Elsa, Incredibles 2, ToyStory, and others. Disney’s adaptive costumes include elements like self-stick fabric closures, flap openings and longer lengths to accommodate various medical needs. These paired perfectly with magical wheelchair covers designed to look like Cinderella’s coach, the Incredibmobile and more, so kids could show off their wheelchairs in style.The costumes allow children to step into the shoes of their favorite characters, providing comfort and familiarity to kids that may be struggling with the stressful transition to the hospital.Earlier this month, Disneyland Resort was thrilled to bring the spirit of Halloween to patients and their families at Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Expanding on its festive celebrations in years past, Disneyland brought Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their Halloween attire to the hospital’s campuses in both Orange and Mission Viejo, helping to put a smile on the faces of patients and their families.

These visits are a part of Disney’s wider efforts this Halloween to bring joy to kids facing critical illnesses. Last weekend, for the first time ever, Disney, Make-A-Wish, MrBeast, and YouTube hosted some of the world’s top creators at Disneyland Resort to grant wishes for 40 Make-A-Wish kids at the ultimate Halloween experience.

At Canuck Place Children’s Hospice in Vancouver, Canada, Disney paid a special visit to the kids there, bringing along costumes, stuffies, and books, and half of those items were shared with the Hospice center’s Abbotsford location.“All the kids at each Hospice will get to choose a special costume (or two!) and then we will also replenish our Dress Up closets — win win all around,” Laura Fielding, Rec Therapy Manager & Education Liaison, said. “We actually had one young patient staying at the Hospice who was having her last stay at Canuck Place (before she transitioned to adult care) and her special request was a Princess Party, so she was able to choose a special dress for that event!”These build upon the Halloween joy that Disney spread last year at Children’s Hospitals, where the company and Starlight hosted not-so-scary events, delivered thousands of frightfully fun Disney Store costumes as well as books and toys to 450 children’s hospitals and pediatric places of care, provided a special visit to children at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New York from Auli’I Cravalho, voice of Moana in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ and , and more.

Disney’s support of children’s hospitals continues beyond the Halloween season. As part of a recently fulfilled $100 million commitment to help reimagine the patient experience in children’s hospitals and places of care, more than 1,600 children’s hospitals and pediatric places of care in 45 countries have received enchanting installations, Disney-themed hospital gowns, complimentary access to Disney+ and new theatrical releases, toy deliveries, hospital visits, and more.Disney is continuing to show up for kids and families in ways that only Disney can, bringing characters, stories, and experiences to kids in children’s hospitals.To learn more about The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to delivering happiness and comfort when it’s needed most, please visit joy.disney.com.

Disney’s annual World Princess Week is a celebration of the special connection that millions of kids and families have with Disney Princess. These timeless stories and characters bring kids comfort, hope, and confidence, especially those facing critical illnesses. Each year, thousands of Make-A-Wish® kids choose Disney princesses for their heartfelt wish.In celebration of World Princess Week, Disney granted fairytale wishes for more than 100 kids around the world. 

Celebrating the Real-life Fairytales

This week, Disney shared a brand-new video celebrating princess wishes and the company’s longstanding relationship with Make-A-Wish.

A Disney Princess for A Day: Amelia’s Wish at Disneyland Resort

At Disneyland Resort, cast members granted the wish of 7-year-old Amelia, who dreamed of meeting Moana. As a “Princess for a Day,” Amelia received a royal invitation to the Disney Princess Breakfast Adventure at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, pampering on a lavish throne at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for her Moana makeover, special VIP viewing for the Paint the Night Parade and the Wonderous Journeys nighttime spectacular, among other fun surprises.

The best moment of the fairytale day was Amelia’s meet and greet with Moana. After a very big hug, Amelia and Moana had their own wayfinding adventure. Amelia’s entire family joined in for the silly fun, running around and “swimming” in the ocean.

Create Your World: Wish Kids Discover their Inner Princess in Latin America

As part of the Create Your World campaign, Disney and Make-A-Wish created magical and memorable experiences for nine girls facing critical illnesses from Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico. These unique moments were made possible through a powerful combination: the boundless imagination inspired by Disney Princess stories and Disney’s commitment to bringing joy and comfort to those who need it most.

The girls and their families participated in an experience specially designed to help them explore their own potential and create their own world: from choosing how to dress or style their hair, to envisioning the impact they want to make in the world and the “power” they would use to achieve it. Because creating your world also means discovering your own strength — and using it to accomplish extraordinary things.

The day ended with an unforgettable encounter with their favorite princess, creating lasting memories for the children and their families.

Fairytales Come to Life Aboard the Disney Fantasy in Italy 

During one of the Disney Fantasy’s stops at the port of Civitavecchia, Disney and Make-A-Wish Italia created a fairytale experience for nearly 40 families from across Italy onboard the ship. With many Make-A-Wish families unable to travel, this day provided an opportunity to enjoy a magical wish experience close to home. As the guests of honour, the wish children attendeda Royal Tea Party with their favorite princesses, enjoyed playtime in the Oceaneer’s Club, and had a dance party with Captain Mickey, Captain Minnie, and their pals. 5-year-old Aurora’s wish to meet Cinderella, her favorite Disney Princess, came true onboard.

Disney stories and characters like the Disney Princesses bring moments of happiness and joy when it’s needed most. Children with critical illnesses often turn to these familiar tales while in the hospital, finding comfort in inspiring stories of hope and resilience. Then, when they have the opportunity to choose their most heartfelt wish, thousands look to those same princessesDuring World Princess Week and all year long, Disney works with Make-A-Wish to grant a wish every hour of every day. Learn more about how Disney delivers moments of happiness and joy for kids and families when it’s needed most at Joy.Disney.com.

“I don’t know why, but I’ve always enjoyed the idea of summer and sun, and all things hot!” — Olaf Summer is often thought of as a care-free time for kids and families, filled with sunny, outdoor recreation and enrichment. But for kids with serious illnesses, this often means days, weeks, or months spent in the hospital, missing out on popular summer activities. So, this season, Disney brought exclusive events, immersive murals, and special deliveries of toys and books to kids in hospitals around the world.These activations are part of Disney’s ongoing support for seriously ill children, following a recently fulfilled $100 million global commitment to help reimagine the patient experience in children’s hospitals and pediatric places of care. Through this work, Disney has delivered comfort and joy to children in nearly 1600 hospitals around the world. 

Disney Movie Moments & Disney+: Favorite Stories, Films, and Shows

With a number of highly-anticipated summer releases, kids in hospitals got to experience Disney movie magic all summer long. Disney and Pixar’s, Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps, and Disney’s Freakier Friday were all available on Disney Movie Momentsfor pediatric patients around the world who were unable to visit theaters.

In the UK and Ireland, Disney debuted the brand-new “Magic of Movies” campaignand Public Service Announcement (PSA)supporting long-time collaborator MediCinema, a UK-based charity that brings state-of-the-art cinemas to hospitals.  Through MediCinema and complimentary access to Disney Movie Moments and Disney+, Disney works to ensure engaging content is available to kids in hospitals to help bring comfort and a sense of normalcy when it’s needed most. 

Disney Movie Parties: Lilo & Stitch and Elio

Disney also hosted parties for children’s hospitals around the world, timed to the release of Lilo & Stitch and Elio. Movie parties consist of themed toys, books, and other fun treats for patients and their families to enjoy, along with watching a new film while it’s still in theaters.

Bay Area children’s hospitals and pediatric places of care enjoyed movie parties — and more. Pixar artists visited four facilities, taking drawing requests from patients at the parties and making bedside visits for those watching the film from the comfort of their hospital rooms. Medical professionals at hundreds of additional hospitals in the U.S. and Australia also received a Movie Party in a Box for Lilo & Stitch and , complete with a curated assortment of themed products and activities to host their own local movie parties. 

Disney Deliveries: Hospital Gowns, Toys, and More

Along with Movie Party in a Box, Disney, with the help of Starlight Children’s Foundation, delivered themed toys, books, and games to children’s hospitals across the U.S. and Australia. Additionally, new sets of Mickey & Friends and Star Wars-themed Starlight gowns and pantsare now available to Starlight’s network of more than 800 hospitals in the U.S. One of the most stressful experiences in a child’s hospital journey is transitioning from their personal clothes into a hospital gown, so Disney works with Starlight to deliver collections inspired by beloved Disney characters to help provide comfort and familiarity to pediatric patients.

For Spider-Man Day on August 1st, The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand and the Fair Fight Foundation also launched a new Supertee: Marvel Editionwith ‘Spider-Man’ design. The Supertee is a medical garment intended to help empower and support sick children in Australian hospitals. Spider-Man is the third Marvel Avenger character in the Supertee: Marvel Edition collection, adding to ‘Captain America’ and ‘Captain Marvel’ designs, available since 2022. 

Magical Moments: Disney Parks 

Disneyland Resort

In July, Disney brought the joy of the 70th Celebration at Disneyland Resort to Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Patients and families were invited to make crafts, play games with Disneyland Ambassadors and Disney VoluntEARS, draw with a Disney sketch artist, and meet Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, and Pluto.

A few weeks later, CHOC hosted its annual CHOC Walk in the Park presented by Disneyland Resort, welcoming over 7,000 participants to take part in a 5k route through both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park — raising a record-breaking $2.9 million to support the hospital’s vital programs and research. Since the Walk began 35 years ago, more than $46 million has been raised through this event alone.

Disney has a long legacy of support for CHOC, dating back to Walt Disney’s time on the hospital’s founding board and his fundraising efforts to help bring CHOC to life. This has grown into a longstanding relationship between Disneyland Resort and CHOC that continues today. 

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

In celebration of Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary, the resort hosted magical parties at several local hospitals. Over 300 young patients, families, and medical staff at Tuen Mun Hospital and Hong Kong Children’s Hospital got to enjoy these enchanting events.

The resort also launched “PlayWell with Disney,” an initiative that features colorful decor, mini-game booths, singing and dancing performances, and character visits. Additionally, eight public hospitals in Hong Kong are receiving Disney-themed murals and Disney Mobile Movie Theatres with complimentary Disney+ access.

Reimagining Spaces: Disney Mural Installations

Along with those in Hong Kong, Disney murals were installed this summer for four additional hospitals in Asia and Europe. In Japan, Disney unveiled murals and interactive wall art to brighten the Proton Beam Therapy Center at University of Tsukuba Hospital for kids being treated for pediatric cancer.

Designed by Disney artists and featuring familiar characters from beloved stories, Disney murals and art are placed in important areas across patient floors to help ease anxiety and bring comfort and joy to children and their families. 

Disney’s Legacy of Support

In 2018, Disney committed $100 million to help reimagine the patient experience in children’s hospitals, and has since created scalable, meaningful impact for children and families.  From the very beginning, Disney teams across the company, including the world-renowned Walt Disney Imagineers, worked with a global network of experts to identify unique experiences Disney could provide to ease the fear and anxiety of a hospital stay. Hospitals received enchanting installations, themed hospital gowns, complimentary access to Disney+ and new theatrical releases, toy deliveries, hospital visits, and more — all of which continue to be made available to pediatric places of care around the world. The impact on the individual patient’s experience is often cited as one of the most meaningful outcomes of Disney’s work. While there are millions, each individual moment of comfort, empowerment, joy, or hope has made a lasting impact on kids and their families, when it’s needed most.   Learn more about Disney’s commitment to delivering moments of happiness and joy at Joy.Disney.com.  

In collaboration with Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), The Walt Disney Company surprised thousands of sailors, as well as other military service members, with special screenings of Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps. These screenings are a part of the Navy’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Navy Motion Picture Service program which brings movies to Sailors and their families at home and abroad.

Military Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, were introduced to the Marvel Studios’ First Family during showings from Wednesday, July 23, through Sunday, July 27, that included special greetings recorded by Executive Producer Grant Curtis from Marvel Studios.

To bring the film to Service members, The Fantastic Four: First Steps traveled to Djibouti under the highest security. The disk that contained the film could only be unlocked with a special pin and was delivered by Jessica Moore, Vice President of Government Relations at The Walt Disney Company.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family — Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal. The action-adventure also stars Natasha Lyonne, Paul Walter Hauser, Sarah Niles and Mark Gatiss. The Fantastic Four: First Steps is directed by Matt Shakman, produced by Kevin Feige, p.g.a., and executive produced by Louis D’Esposito, Grant Curtis, Tim Lewis and Robert Kulzer.

Nearly 45 years ago, the first official wish was granted at Disneyland. Since then, Disney has worked with Make-A-Wish® to grant wishes and create happiness, hope, and inspiration for kids and families when it’s needed most. This summer, Disney and Make-A-Wish are teaming up to grant many magical wishes across the company and around the world, including Disney’s 170,000th wish.  

Disney Grants 170,000th Wish During Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary

While undergoing treatment for leukemia, 13-year-old Madison (Maddie) read The Imagineering Story and watched Behind the Attraction on Disney+. This inspired her wish: to meet the Imagineers who bring the parks to life, and one day become an Imagineer herself.

Maddie’s two-day wish experience included a tour of Walt Disney Imagineering in Glendale, where she was surprised by Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro and Make-A-Wish CEO Leslie Motter to learn she is Disney’s 170,000th wish kid! She later met renowned Imagineers who help bring Disney stories to life in our parks around the world. The next day, she joined in the 70th anniversary festivities at Disneyland and went behind-the-scenes of some of her favorite attractions. Read more about Madison’s wish here.

ESPN “My Wish” Series Returns for its 18th Season

The award-winning ESPN “My Wish” series returned for its 18th season on Sunday, July 13, featuring NFL, boxing, and baseball stars. Since its beginning in 2006, the series has worked with Make-A-Wish to fulfill 88 sports-themed wishes for children with critical illnesses. This year’s series of wishes featured Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, boxing champion Canelo Alvarez, and the beloved Savannah Bananas.

The fun begins in hundreds of children’s hospitals with fan-favorite Lilo & Stitch

This summer, kids in hospitals will experience Disney magic with exclusive events and special deliveries of toys and books, many of which are tied to the latest theatrical releases, starting with fan-favorite Lilo & Stitch.

Disney Hosts Lilo & Stitch Movie Party in Sacramento

To kick off the summer festivities, Disney hosted a Lilo & Stitch movie party for patients and families at Sutter Children’s Center in Sacramento — a region with a significant Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community. The event featured hula dancing, coloring activities, Lilo & Stitch-themed giveaways delivered by Starlight Children’s Foundation, and a surprise visit from Stitch himself. The kids also received a special message from Zach Galifianakis, who plays Jumba, before watching the brand-new film.

“These events can really help them feel like they’re not in the hospital,” said Sara Anderson, pediatric manager of integrated therapies at Sutter Children’s Center. “We all remember going to Disneyland and seeing a character — how special that is. But imagine being a child in the hospital and having a character come to you. That can really lift your spirits.” Nine-year-old patient Grace lit up when Stitch walked in. “It made me feel like I was in the movie just standing with him saying, ‘Hi, my name is Grace, and this is my friend Stitch,’” she said. And her review of the day? “Amazing, cool, awesome, and ten out of ten.” Her mom, Jessica, added that the event created a “family environment for the hospital. And with her having to stay here, it’s a blessing that she gets to be part of this.” 

Lilo & Stitch Brings Joy to Children’s Hospitals Around the World

The fun of Lilo & Stitch continued around the world. In Japan, Disney VoluntEARS and professional announcers read aloud to patients in Shizuoka Children’s Hospital through Disney Storytime, Disney Japan’s new storytelling initiative in collaboration with Nippon Television (NTV) Holdings Inc. and Kodansha Ltd. Disney China brought Stitch plush and interactive activities to 50 Disney Fun Houses — Disney-themed play spaces — across China. At Beijing Children’s Hospital, Stitch joined Disney VoluntEARS to interact with the children, following an animated Lilo & Stitch screening at the hospital’s Disney Mobile Theater.

In Indonesia, Disney and Make-A-Wish hosted a Lilo & Stitch screening for 55 children and their families at Harapan Kita Women and Children’s Hospital in Jakarta. Stitch “crashed” the party and visited over 150 children in the pediatric wards. Local influencer Yasmin Napper joined the event, alongside 15 Disney VoluntEARS, to create moments of happiness and comfort.Starting this week, hundreds of children’s hospitals now have access to watch Lilo & Stitch while it’s still in theaters through Disney Movie Moments. Since 2014, thousands of seriously ill children have been able to watch new movies while in the hospital through Disney Movie Moments.Children’s hospitals will also receive a Lilo & Stitch edition of Disney’s Movie Party in a Box, which contains a curated assortment of complimentary themed products and activities. Both Disney Movie Moments and Movie Party in a Box offer kids and their families a sense of comfort and community when they may not be able to visit movie theaters.

Nearly 70 years after Disneyland launched the modern theme park industry, Disney continues to play a vital role in driving economic growth, job creation, and small businesses across the United States. Disney Parks & Resorts generated a historic $67 billion in annual economic impact from coast to coast, standing as a cornerstone of America’s tourism economy and beyond, supporting more than 403,000 direct and indirect jobs in California, Florida and in all 50 states.

“Disney defines the themed entertainment business in America, and our presence is felt across the country,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences. “Our destinations create economies far beyond the gates of our parks, and when we invest in the groundbreaking experiences that only Disney can deliver, growth follows.”

For the last 20 years, Disney has conducted studies on how it impacts local economies where it does business, and a new report prepared by economists from Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, sheds light on the profound economic impact of the theme park that started it all. Key findings show that Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. generated $16.1 billion in annual economic impact across Southern California and supports more than 102,000 jobs in the Southern California region (directly and indirectly).

“As we celebrate 70 incredible years in Southern California, we are deeply proud of the lasting impact Disneyland Resort has made — creating thousands of jobs, fueling the local economy and welcoming the world to this extraordinary region,” said Thomas Mazloum, president, Disneyland Resort. “And we’re just getting started — the decades ahead hold even greater promise, and we look forward to growing, evolving and contributing more to the community we call home.”

For the first time, Disney is combining total economic impact and total job creation data from Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort to emphasize the company’s significant contributions to the U.S. economy, across all 50 states.

The report — which builds on previous research about the economic impact of Disney’s operations in Florida in fiscal year 2022 — emerges as Disney advances its plans to accelerate and expand investment. The company’s plan to ‘turbocharge’ the growth of Disney’s domestic parks will increase capital expenditures in the U.S. to $30 billion through 2033, including:

• The largest-ever expansion of the Magic Kingdom, including a reimagined section of Frontierland inspired by the Pixar Animation Studios film Cars and a new land themed around Disney Villains from classic Walt Disney Animation Studios films
• A new Tropical Americas land in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, featuring attractions based on Encanto from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Indiana Jones
• The first-ever land based on Pixar Animation Studios’ Monsters, Inc. at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Doubling the size of Avengers Campus at Disney’s California Adventure park
• Also at Disneyland Resort: New attractions based on Disney and Pixar’s Coco and Avatar
• And more…

“Disney is an iconic economic engine powering entire ecosystems of jobs, small businesses and public revenue. What began as a single destination has evolved into one of the most impressive examples of local and national economic growth — generating more than $16 billion in economic impact across Southern California alone in 2023.” said Adam Sacks, president of Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company.

Other cumulative highlights from the Disneyland and Walt Disney World reports include:

• Nearly 1 out of every 20 jobs in Orange County, Calif. and 1 out of every 8 jobs in Central Florida can be attributed to Disney.
• Disney’s operations power a massive small business ecosystem across the country. Disney works with thousands of small businesses in all 50 states, which employ workers and provide a wide range of goods and services — from the paint used on Sleeping Beauty Castle to specialty popcorn served in the theme parks, towels and linens provided for guests across Disney Resort hotels and more.

When Walt Disney opened Disneyland in 1955, no one could have predicted the effect it would have on Anaheim, let alone America and the world. Today, the impact of Disney Parks in the U.S. is profound, attracting millions of visitors and fostering thriving local economies by supporting thousands of small businesses, hotels and service industries.

By producing captivating content and experiences, Disney not only creates happiness but also generates employment, stimulates tourism and contributes to charitable endeavors that enrich communities.

The Walt Disney Company UK and Make-A-Wish® UK have once again come together for the fifth annual A Disney Wish UK, the immersive experience that brings the happiness, joy, and magic of Disney to children living with critical illnesses.

With many Make-A-Wish families unable to travel to a Disney Park due to their circumstances, A Disney Wish provided an opportunity for nearly 200 families to take part in unforgettable events with their favorite Disney stories and characters over the course of 12 days (with each family staying for three days). Including this year, nearly 1,000 wishes have been granted over the five A Disney Wish events. Since the first A Disney Wish UK event in 2021, Mickey, Minnie, and friends have welcomed over 4,000 guests (wish children and those closest to them) to the experience.   During this year’s stay, families enjoyed six unique Disney shows, 32 beloved Disney characters, and 12 Disney-themed family activities including singalong celebrations, a Toy Story carnival, an accessible carousel, a Winnie-the-Pooh picnic, and a Stitch-themed treasure trail. The children and their families also spent time with their favorite princesses, joined the Avengers Training Initiative, and partied with Stitch in the Silent Disco. To add to the magic, all children received a personal invitation from Mickey Mouse ahead of their stay.

For Tiwalade and Tinuade, 8-year-old twins from Staines in Greater London who live with sickle cell disease, a genetically inherited blood disorder, this year’s event was special for them and their whole family. “For us as a family, A Disney Wish has brought us together,” Temi, the twins’ dad, said. “It’s a time which has brought us so much happiness, something that is so important in times of distress — especially for kids with difficult health situations.”

TV personality and campaigner Tasha Ghouri met and spent time with the twins’ family, attending a special Storytime with Belle before joining the family for character meet and greets with Moana and riding on the accessible carousel.“I feel so honored to have been part of A Disney Wish UK,” Ghouri said. “For so many of these seriously ill children that Make-A-Wish supports, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — and it’s incredible to see the joy and magic it brings them.”TV Star Amy Dowden met with 8-year-old Marvel fan Max from Perth, Scotland. Max was diagnosed with spinal muscular dystrophy type 1 — a condition that causes serious muscle weakening — at just nine weeks old. As his mother Elaine explained, being able to attend A Disney Wish was a particular triumph for him, as doctors told his family, “he wouldn’t see his first birthday.” The physical implications of his condition are many. Max didn’t have the strength to speak until he was four, and he will never be able to walk.  “Every day is never a given, but each day is even more precious when your child has a life limiting condition” Elaine noted. “Today has just been a day like no other. People often say there are no words to describe how I feel and, honestly, for us to see him with Spider-Man and to see him so engaged and captivated, taking part, is just unbelievable. You just cannot believe what has gone into making this happen for so many families, for so many children. Everything has been so magical, so unbelievable.”

“Seeing the joy on the children’s faces with them meeting characters up close and personal has been incredible — the families get memories and moments to cherish forever,” Dowden said.

“Every year it’s amazing to see that A Disney Wish creates magical life-changing moments for kids and families, in a way that only Disney can through our beloved characters and stories,” Deborah Armstrong, Senior Vice President, Disney Advertising EMEA and Country Manager UK & Ireland said. “The event has such a positive impact, helping families make joyful new memories together at a time when they need it the most. It’s a very special privilege to bring this experience to the UK again this year and see the lasting impact it has on the families — it truly is Disney magic at its best.”  Jason Suckley, Make-A-Wish UK Chief Executive, also noted that, “At Make-A-Wish UK, we believe every child deserves to wish for more than a life defined by illness and we’re thrilled to work, for a fifth year, with Disney to bring the magic to critically ill children right here in the UK.”

Suckley continued, saying, “Five years since the pandemic, the number of children eligible for a wish continues to rise but the heartbreaking reality is that many children either can’t wait or can’t travel to make their wish come true. With Disney’s incredible support, we’re able to create joy, happiness and magical memories through this life-changing wish for these children.”  The Walt Disney Company is the largest wish-granter for Make-A-Wish globally, granting a wish every hour of every day. A Disney Wish UK is one of the many experiences created through Disney’s 45-year relationship with Make-A-Wish, which has helped grant over 165,000 wishes — starting with the first official wish granted at Disneyland Resort. To find out more please visit Worldwish.org/Disney.   

When Disney set out to bring the beloved story of Lilo & Stitch to life in a new live-action adaptation, it took a cue from Stitch and decided to break the status quo by collaborating with local organizations for a first-of-a-kind Hawai‘i film production.

Filmed entirely on the island of O‘ahu, the production took its responsibility to honor the land and the community that made the movie possible to heart — transforming the way a film set can operate to reduce waste, repurpose materials, and give back.

Over 46 days of filming across locations including Mākaha, Kapolei, Haleʻiwa, Kahuku, Kāneʻohe, Hālawa, Honolulu, and Hawai‘i Kai, the Lilo & Stitch production team diverted on-set waste from landfills, instead turning it into valuable resources for the local community.

Local Collaboration, Lasting Impact

Disney worked with four Hawai‘i-based organizations — Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i (SCH), Bottles4College, Full Circle Farms, and Aloha Harvest — to rethink traditional production practices and embed sustainability throughout the production process.

The results of this work speak volumes:

• 80% of on-set waste was diverted from landfills and reused in the community with the support of Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i. The coastlines protection-focused organization set up waste sorting stations across set locations — with clearly marked bins for recycling, compost, and trash — while providing on-site education to help cast and crew prep traditional waste for its next use.
• 18,000 pounds of food scraps and compostable packaging was sent to the local Full Circle Farms to be transformed into nutrient-rich soil used to grow local product.
• Over 3,500 pounds of surplus food was donated to the food rescue nonprofit Aloha Harvest, providing the equivalent of two years’ worth of meals for one person.
• Meanwhile, nonprofit Bottles4College ensured bottles and cans were not just recycled, but funds collected from the recycling facility were used to support college scholarships for local students.
• Used cooking oil from set kitchens was converted into biodiesel, a cleaner-burning fuel alternative.
• Props, lumber, and set materials found new life with local nonprofits and schools after filming wrapped.

A New Model for Movie-Making

The best part about this work is that it isn’t a one-off project, but rather a proof of concept for how film productions — especially those in resource-limited locations like Hawai‘i — can operate more sustainably and embrace new habits to carry over into future projects.

From the materials used on set to the meals served each day, Disney’s sustainability team found a creative approach to production that only complements the creative process on screen.

To see this good work in action, watch Lilo & Stitch, now exclusively in theaters.

As the world’s largest wish granter for Make-A-Wish, Disney grants a wish every hour of every day, all year long.

This year, The Walt Disney Company launched the first-ever “Disney Week of Wishes,” a weeklong, company-wide campaign to celebrate its 45-year relationship with Make-A-Wish® and bring happiness and joy to children facing critical illnesses, when it’s needed most. Disney granted more than 170 signature wishes for Make-A-Wish kids as part of Disney Week of Wishes, harnessing the creativity and breadth of the company’s businesses to deliver innovative, magical experiences in ways that only Disney can. Read more about how global teams shared inspiring stories and granted life-changing wishes.  

Disney Entertainment Celebrates Disney Week of Wishes

ABC News’ Good Morning America covered Disney Week of Wishes daily, spotlighting some of the most exciting wishes, from princess experiences in Disney Parks to exclusive studios opportunities with big names in music, television, and film.Here are more Disney Entertainment wish activations:

American Idolhelped grant Adira and Brantley’s wishes to meet Luke Bryan. The two wish kids walked the blue carpet, got a private, backstage tour, and met this year’s contestants before spending time with their favorite country superstar.The celebration continued live on air, when Ryan Seacrest gave a shout-out to Adira and Brantley and shared a public service announcement for Make-A-Wish.

Marvel teamed up with Make-A-Wish to grant Aurora’s wish to meet Sebastian Stan on the set of Marvel Studios’ new release, Thunderbolts*.

Phineas and Ferb creators Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh surprised Amanda, a Make-A-Wish alum, during an interview about her 2012 wish experience with the show. While reminiscing about the impactful wish, Povenmire and Marsh surprised Amanda with an invitation to the Phineas and Ferb premiere event.

National Geographic granted Lavender’s wish to create a historical documentary for her favorite teacher.  ABC Owned Television Stations in California, Illinois, Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania spotlighted inspiring wish stories near wish kids’ hometowns across the country, which include Chicago, IL, Harrisburg, PA, Hemet, CA, Chester, NY, Cass, MI, Benton, IA, and more.

ESPN Supports Sports-Themed Wishes for Disney Week of Wishes

celebrated the incredible strength of Make-A-Wish kids by supporting sports-themed wishes and activations.

As part of the 2025 NFL Draft live on ESPN, Sam and Tommy’s wishes came true when they each announced the First Round draft picks for their favorite teams, the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills. ESPN worked with the NFL, the Broncos, the Bills and Make-A-Wish to enhance Sam and Tommy’s wishes by hosting meet-and-greets with ESPN talent, including Ryan Clark, Mina Kimes, Laura Rutledge, Dan Orlovsky, Adam Schefter and Marcus Spears, hours ahead of the Draft.   Sports fans also relived unforgettable moments of wish kids sharing their brave journeys with athletes on ESPN’s SportsCenter. The award-winning series re-aired on ESPNEWS, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes during Disney Week of Wishes.

Disney Week of Wishes Comes to Life Through Disney Experiences

Disney Experiencescelebrated Disney Week of Wishes by crafting real-life fairy tales for children looking for a little magic, all around the world.“Wish-granting is some of the most important work we do in Disney Experiences,” Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences, said. “These moments are life-changing for the kids and families. They build them up with strength and resilience, and they have a lasting impact on them — and also on us.”

Walt Disney World granted nearly 50 Disney Princess wishes at Once Upon A Wish Party, where wish kids stepped into a two-day storybook adventure and became just like the Disney characters who inspired them during their medical journeys.

Disneyland Resort granted Justice’s wish to meet her favorite princesses. On World Wish Day, nine more wish kids and their siblings got the royal treatment, including a princess breakfast, transformations at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and a grand celebration in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Disney Cruise Line made magic for Anthony, Delaney, and Kara, who sailed aboard the Disney Wish from Port Canaveral, Florida, visiting Nassau, The Bahamas, and Disney Castaway Cay. While onboard, the Make-A-Wish kids experienced live shows, fireworks at sea, moments with their favorite characters, and more.

Ziyan, Hong, and Jiarui had their wishes granted at Shanghai Disney Resort, baking a royalty-themed cake inside the Enchanted Storybook Castle with Chef Donald Duck, before meeting Cinderella, Ariel and Rapunzel.

Nearly every Disney wish is made even more unforgettable with Disney products, which allow kids to keep a piece of the magic and bring long-lasting memories home. In addition to Disney Consumer Products’ support of wish experiences across the company, Disney Store Ontario Mills arranged a shopping spree and princess makeovers for two sisters and wish kids Kehlani and Camila.In Shanghai, Disney Store engaged customers in an in-store donation campaign and welcomed Make-A-Wish families to the Disney Week of Wishes launch event at the flagship location, with support from Disney VoluntEARS.

For the first time ever, a wish to meet Rapunzel was granted at Fantasy Springs, the latest themed port at Tokyo DisneySea. 8-year-old wish kid Mei met Rapunzel and Flynn Rider at The Snuggly Duckling, followed by a dreamy boat ride on Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival.

Hong Kong Disneyland granted five wishes, including that of Yee Sun, who performed in the Mickey and the Wondrous Book stage performance. The audience, filled with over 1,000 Make-A-Wish alumni, guests, medical staff, and more, was beaming with joy.

75 wish families from across Europe visited Disneyland Paris for a three-day wish weekend as part of the new Disney Music Festival. For the launch, four wish children from the U.K. joined the celebrated British singer Sam Ryder to perform in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, while others celebrated on Main Street, U.S.A. with Minnie’s Marching Band.

Disney Week of Wishes: A Global Celebration

In addition to magical experiences at global destinations like parks and cruises, Disney teams in Latin America and Asia Pacific granted special wishes and events.

Disney’s Latin America office hosted the first ever Princess wish granting event in Argentina for Make-A-Wish. Six young children had the opportunity to meet their favorite Disney Princesses and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon filled with joy and happiness alongside their families.

In the Philippines, 40 wish children received a royal makeover experience with the help of Disney VoluntEARS, tapping into their inner princesses. At the event, 2-year-old Ali’s wish to become Snow White was also granted, complete with her very own makeover, Snow White gown, and doll.

Disney Japan invited an 18-year-old wish alum and devoted Star Wars fan, along with his sister, to the 2025 Star Wars Celebration — sharing exclusive experiences and surprise gifts from a galaxy far, far away.

Disney Korea and Make-A-Wish Korea granted Seo Yeon’s Aladdin the Musical wish. The experience was complete with a Princess Jasmine makeover, magical toys, tickets to the stage performance, and meet-and-greet with Sung Hwa, who plays Genie in Aladdin the Musical in Korea.

Disney Wish-Granting Year-Round

In addition to those mentioned above, countless Disney teams around the world worked to support Make-A-Wish and Disney Week of Wishes. While this celebration is coming to an end, the wish-granting will continue year-round.During Disney’s Week of Wishes, the team in Australia surprised Remy with the news that her wish will be granted on set of the Disney+ Australian Original Series The Artful Dodger, Season 2, currently filming in Sydney. And later this month, Disney is hosting wish events in the U.K. and at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. Disney is proud to be the world’s largest wish granter, and we are honored that wish kids choose Disney for their most heartfelt wish. Join Disney and become a WishMaker for Make-A-Wish at wish.org/Disney.

To learn more about The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to delivering happiness and joy when it’s needed most, visit joy.disney.com.

For the past 45 years, The Walt Disney Company and Make-A-Wish have made wishes come true for more than 165,000 children facing critical illnesses and their families around the world. As part of the first-ever Disney Week of Wishes, three kids’ wishes were granted when they were invited to meet their heroes, Thunderbolts* star Sebastian Stan and American Idol judge Luke Bryan, on the sets of their respective film and television series.

“Our wishes are really tied to our superpower of storytelling,” Lizzy Paulson, Senior Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Entertainment, said. “All wishes are unique and different, and in order to grant those that come to Disney Entertainment, we work across various internal stakeholders – including legal, HR, production, and talent relations, to name a few — because there are so many moving parts.”

Sarah Whitney, Senior Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Entertainment, added, “At Disney Entertainment, we are able to create a more robust experience for each wish child as opposed to a simple meet and greet with their favorite celebrities. We offer some truly incredible day-long experiences — wishes that only Disney is able to provide.”

For the past 45 years, The Walt Disney Company and Make-A-Wish have made wishes come true for more than 165,000 children facing critical illnesses and their families around the world. As part of the first-ever Disney Week of Wishes, three kids’ wishes were granted when they were invited to meet their heroes, Thunderbolts* star Sebastian Stan and American Idol judge Luke Bryan, on the sets of their respective film and television series.

“Our wishes are really tied to our superpower of storytelling,” Lizzy Paulson, Senior Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Entertainment, said. “All wishes are unique and different, and in order to grant those that come to Disney Entertainment, we work across various internal stakeholders – including legal, HR, production, and talent relations, to name a few — because there are so many moving parts.”

Sarah Whitney, Senior Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Entertainment, added, “At Disney Entertainment, we are able to create a more robust experience for each wish child as opposed to a simple meet and greet with their favorite celebrities. We offer some truly incredible day-long experiences — wishes that only Disney is able to provide.”

Marvelous Experience

One such wish recipient is Maryland native Aurora.

Aurora dreamed of meeting Stan, who plays James “Buchanan” Barnes, aka The Winter Soldier, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Her wish was a long time in the making, and it was officially granted in May 2024 when she was invited to visit the set of Thunderbolts* alongside three other superfans and their families.

“I was so grateful that I got to hug this person who had done so much for me,” Aurora, who has lived with chronic gastrointestinal disorder and debilitating arthritis for much of her life, said on ABC News’ Good Morning America. “I wanted to make sure that I got the chance to tell [Stan] how much [he] did for me, and I got to do that. And I am so grateful.”

The wish was just as impactful for Stan as it was for Aurora.

Along with co-stars Florence Pugh, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, and David Harbour, Stan signed autographs, posed for pictures, and spent time making memories with each wish child. The production team also surprised Aurora with cupcakes to celebrate her 18th birthday on set — which, coincidentally, happened one year before Thunderbolts* releases in theaters May 2.

But that wasn’t the only surprise.

At one point, Stan suggested that he and Aurora should trade dog tags, as she had a replica of his character’s iconic tags made, and he continued to wear hers throughout the duration of filming. “I just thought, ‘Maybe you should have mine and I’ll have yours,’” the actor recalled. “It was a good moment. It was very touching.”

Ultimately, Stan said, “Any time we have an opportunity to interact face to face and see the amount of joy and gratitude these kids have — just from a simple hello — it fills you up.”

Backstage Pass

Season after season, dreams come true on the American Idol stage. This year was a little different, though, as Bryan made two wishes come true backstage before Monday’s taping.

Country music superstar Bryan gave 9-year-old Adira and 10-year-old Brantley a personal tour of the American Idol set, giving them an exclusive look at what goes on behind the scenes of the hit ABC reality competition series. Not only that, but Adira and Brantley got to meet this year’s contestants, walk the blue carpet, and receive signed posters from all three judges and Ryan Seacrest to keep as a memento. To cap things off, the wish kids and their families sat in the audience during a “Rock and Roll Hall of Fame/Iconic Idol Moments”-themed episode.

“When Brantley was 3 years old, he got to attend a Luke Bryan concert, and he’s just been the biggest fan ever since,” Paulson said. “And Adira gets very excited speaking about Luke. We’re so happy that we were able to bring them on set and have a private meet-and-greet opportunity on the blue carpet with Luke.”

It was a moment neither Adira nor Brantley will likely ever forget.

“I’ve always liked him, my whole life. When I was littler, I would sing a lot of Luke Bryan songs,” Brantley told Good Morning America, with Adira adding, “He’s my favorite singer.”

Just the Beginning

Since the first wish was granted at Disneyland Resort in 1981, Disney remains the world’s largest wish granter for Make-A-Wish, granting a wish every hour of every day. These wishes have the power to renew hope, uplift spirits, and unite families in life-changing experiences.

Disney WishMakers across the entire company work with Make-A-Wish to help grant life-changing wishes, such as theme park and resort vacations, cruises, shopping sprees, film and TV set visits, talent meet and greets, sports-themed experiences, and so much more.

According to Paulson, making those wishes come true wouldn’t be possible without “so many people” from Disney and Make-A-Wish working hand in hand, every step of the way.

“Everybody works together to create these seamless experiences so that kids and families can be present and enjoy these once-in-a-lifetime momentsthat will stay with them throughout their whole lives,” Paulsen said. “I recently spoke with an alum whose wish was granted in 2012, and she still considers it the best day of her life. To have that impact on somebody — and to see the ripple effect it has on the wish grantors — is really magical.”

Join Disney and become a WishMaker for Make-A-Wish at wish.org/Disney.

To learn more about Disney’s commitment to delivering happiness and joy when it’s needed most, visit joy.disney.com.

For nearly 45 years, The Walt Disney Company and Make-A-Wish® have worked together to create new and innovative ways to deliver joy when it’s needed most to kids facing critical illnesses. This collaboration has resulted in Disney becoming the world’s largest wish granter by using imagination to provide hope and inspiration to children, even in the most difficult times.“We’re enormously proud of Disney’s relationship with Make-A-Wish, which dates back nearly 45 years to the first official wish at Disneyland,” Bob Iger, Disney CEO, said. “It’s a privilege to use the power of Disney’s stories and characters to lift children’s spirits when they need it most, and we’re honored to work with Make-A-Wish to grant a Disney wish every hour of every day.” Disney WishMakers across the entire company work with Make-A-Wish to help grant life-changing wishes, including theme park and resort vacations, cruises, shopping sprees, film and TV set visits, talent meet and greets, sports-themed experiences, and more.

This year, the company is expanding beyond its World Wish Day celebrations by launching the first-ever Disney Week of Wishes — seven days of granting wishes to kids across many of its business segments all over the world, while helping to generate support for Make-Wish. In total, Disney is expecting to share more than 170 special wishes during this amazing week. As the company embarks on this endeavor, here’s a brief look at the powerful impact The Walt Disney Company and Make-A-Wish have together: 

• The Walt Disney Company is the world’s largest wish granter. 

• Disney grants a wish every single hour of every single day, on average. 

• Since the first official wish in 1981, Disney has granted 165,000 wishes. 

• In the U.S., of the over 16,000 wishes granted by Make-A-Wish each year, historically, one out of every two wishes is a Disney wish. 

• At Walt Disney World’s Once Upon a Wish Party this year, about 50 princess wishes will be granted. 

• One shared goal: to bring happiness and joy to kids facing critical illnesses.

Walt Disney once said: “My business is making people, especially children, happy.” In that spirit, Disney is honored to work with Make-A-Wish to provide transformative experiences that deliver happiness and comfort to children facing serious illness.

As part of The Walt Disney Company’s ongoing commitment to help its hometown of Los Angeles recover from the devastating wildfires in January 2025, Disney is participating in the Sotheby’s AnimAID | The Art of Animation online auction. The auction will offer a treasure trove of rare and one-of-a-kind pieces of animation history with proceeds benefiting local animators and their families who have been affected by the fires.

There will be historical offerings from the company’s vast animation libraries — inclusive of Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Disney Television Animation, 20 Century Television, Lucasfilm, and Marvel Animation — that go back over a century, along with new original pieces from its world-class animators, like Pete Docter, Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer.

“Los Angeles is our hometown and the heart of the animation community,” Meredith Roberts, EVP, Television Animation, Disney Branded Television, said. “Rallying the creative community to donate artwork felt like the most meaningful way we could support our own.”

The auction takes place from April 23-30, 2025. Other participating Studios include Warner Bros., DreamWorks Animation, Sony Pictures Animation, and Paramount.

Uniting to Support the Animation Community

According to Fox Carney, Manager, Research at the Walt Disney Animation Research Library, the question in the animation community in the wake of the fires quickly became, “What can our community do for each other?”

With the help of the International Animated Film Society (ASIFA-Hollywood) and its wildfire relief fund, AnimAID, Disney banded together with other studios to launch this auction.

“It’s a testament to just how close-knit this community is,” Roberts said.

The excitement for this effort has been palpable within the halls of Pixar.

“When we announced this, so many people came out of the woodwork to do anything they could to support the cause,” Docter said.

Carney concurs, noting that, “we want to let those who work in animation know that companies such as ourselves support them, that we care about them, that we’re here for them, that we want to be able to provide resources in any way that we can.”

And it wasn’t just for the community to help itself. The auction is also a way for fans who have enjoyed the art and made memories from the work of these animators to contribute to them during challenging times. “How can they step in to help the artists who have created those moments?” Carney said.

A Treasure Trove of Animation History

“This company started from animation. Animation is in our DNA,” Carney noted. Given that, it’s no surprise that there’s a very wide array of offerings from Disney at the auction. In the Disney Animation research library alone there’s an estimated 65 million physical pieces of artwork and production materials across the studio’s hundred-year history.

Disney Animation, Pixar, and Disney Television Animation will be offering selected artwork and items from their archives that cover decades of history, as well as new items made just for the auction.

“The collection reflects the history of the studio and appeals to collectors and fans of all ages,” Roberts said.

There’s everything from new character statues signed by the directors of Disney Animations’ Frozen 2, to original character designs and storyboards from series like Disney’s Darkwing Duck and Kim Possible, in addition to original artwork from Pixar’s Turning Red director Domee Shi.

“It is very unique and rare to be able to own some of the pieces,” Docter said.

Disney’s Fire Relief Efforts

This auction is just one of the many ways that The Walt Disney Company is working to support its community and employees in the wake of the LA wildfires.

Earlier this month, Disney hosted Disney Field Days! at local schools for students displaced from their schools by the fires, with plans to host more throughout the area.

As the fires were still raging, Disney committed $15 million to LA fire relief and rebuilding efforts. On top of that, those affected by the fires have been supported by Disney through donations, care packages, and private screenings. The company also provided the brave first responders at the frontlines of the recent fires with complimentary tickets to Disneyland. Read more about Disney’s efforts here.

Every day, for almost 70 years, Disney has paid homage to those who serve and defend the nation through daily flag ceremonies.

As a company founded by strong supporters of the U.S. military, Disney has long had an affinity for those who have served in uniform. Long before they started The Walt Disney Company, Walt and Roy O. Disney both served their country during the First World War. Roy was a petty officer in the U.S. Navy and Walt drove an ambulance for the Red Cross Ambulance Corps.

Held at both Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. and Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif., the popular Flag Retreat offerings give Disney the opportunity to offer sincere gratitude to those who safeguard the nation. The important tradition even continued while both theme parks were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Disneyland Daily Flag Ceremony

Since the opening day flag raising on July 17, 1955, Disneyland Park’s daily flag ceremonies in Town Square have become a proud tradition. Throughout that time, security cast members have diligently raised and lowered the American flag each day.

Today, this storied ceremony continues with entertainment cast members from the Disneyland Band and Dapper Dans regularly contributing musical performances to bring emotion to the time-honored ritual.

Disneyland has honored countless service members, veterans and their families over the years, including recently saluting 101-year-old World War II veteran, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. “Papa Jake” Larson.

Magic Kingdom Park Daily Flag Retreat Ceremony

Magic Kingdom’s tradition, which has taken place every day since its opening day in 1971, includes cast members selecting a service member or veteran to honor as the “U.S. Armed Forces Representative of the Day” from among that park’s daily visitors. After the flag is lowered, Magic Kingdom cast members line up to shake hands with the special honoree and share their gratitude.

Many special moments have taken place at Magic Kingdom flag ceremonies since opening day, including the chance to honor World War II heroes such as 101-year-old veteran, U.S. Army Col. William “Bill” Connelly.

Cast Members Following in Walt’s Footsteps

Just as this tradition grew from Walt Disney’s patriotism, today, Disney cast members from coast to coast take part in the reflection and gratitude.

Members of Disney’s SALUTE veteran employee resource group often attend these ceremonies, sharing stories from their own time in service.

Every year these veterans are honored at Flag Retreat ceremonies in both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom as part of Disney’s Veterans Day celebrations. The tradition is particularly important to cast members who have served or continue to serve their country today.

As Disney continues to enchant visitors worldwide, the flag ceremonies remain a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of America.

As the latest part of The Walt Disney Company’s broader commitment to support those affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires in January 2025, Disney surprised students at two schools in Brentwood, CA with Disney Field Days!These fun-filled afternoon events — hosted by Disney right in the students’ schoolyards at Nora Sterry Elementary School and Brentwood Science Magnet — consisted of visits from over 16 beloved Disney characters, hands-on activities, interactive gameplay, giftbags and giveaways from Disney Consumer Products, and much more. Over 900 students in total participated in both Disney Field Day! events across the two schools. The schools have each taken in displaced students from the Palisades region of Los Angeles, which was greatly affected by the devastating wildfires. “Disney has called Los Angeles home for more than a hundred years, and while the fires were still raging, we made a commitment — to be there for the community as it recovers and begins to rebuild,” Lisa Haines, SVP of Corporate Social Responsibility, The Walt Disney Company, said. “That’s really what today is all about and we couldn’t be more excited to be here.”

A Helping Hand

Earlier this year, as the wildfires in LA were being contained, Disney reached out to Alberto Carvalho, Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Superintendent, asking how the company could help. Disney quickly provided a monetary donation to the LAUSD Education Foundation to help impacted teachers and collaborated with LAUSD on ways that the company could spruce up the schools. Those enhancement projects won’t begin until the summer, so the company decided to do something only Disney could do more immediately. The result was the teams from Disney Experiences and Disneyland Live Entertainment and Events jumping into action to create Disney Field Day!  

“A Little Joy, Happiness and Some Hope”

Last Friday afternoon, the students at Nora Sterry Elementary School in Brentwood, CA had an inkling that they were in for a delightful surprise. And judging by the Mickey Ears and characters shirts they were wearing, they suspected the surprise was coming from Disney. While Cast Members like John Breckow, Director of Corporate Citizenship, Disney Experiences, could tell the students knew was brewing at their school, “I’m not sure they knew how MUCH fun they were about to have,” Breckow said.

Beyond their schoolyards being transformed with fun-filled activities, the students were also visited by beloved characters such as Mickey Mouse, Moana, Rey, and more, from brands like Disney Animation Studios, Princesses, Pixar Studios, Lucasfilm, Marvel, and, of course, some more Classic Disney pals. Dara Renee and Josh Colley from Descendants: The Rise of Red and Meg Donnelly and Trevor Tordjman from  made appearances at the events, and Disney Consumer Products provided plush for gift bags and giveaways. “Our main goal was to bring a little joy, happiness and some hope to these students who have shown so much resilience and been through so much this year,” Breckow said. “And not just the Palisades students who relocated, but the Brentwood students who so generously received them at their schools.”

Replacing What Was Lost 

Two special moments occurred at Brentwood when a student and teacher were given special gifts to replace items lost in the fires.

The first was to Pre-K teacher Ms. Lam, who had a collection of Mickey Ear hats and Ear Bands that were lost in the fire. Ms. Lam and her students were amazed as more and more VoluntEARS entered the classroom to gift her hats, exclaiming “MORE EARS?” before finally landing on an amazing 51 in total.

Felicity, a student at Brentwood Science Magnet, lost her favorite plush tiger in the fire. The team behind the event decided to bring her a new tiger plush. But they made it extra Disney special for Felicity by bringing Tigger along, “who came bouncing out to meet her in front of a 100-acre wood scene,” Breckow said. “The smile on her face in that moment is why I work at Disney.” 

Volunteering in Disney’s DNA

The events were made even more special thanks to the Cast Members who jumped in to help, including about 75 VoluntEARS who did everything from stuffing gift bags for the students to moving them seamlessly from adventure to adventure to everything else in between.

“Volunteering is really in our DNA at Disney,” Breckow noted. “We simply couldn’t create magical moments like these without the energy, positivity, and commitment of our employees and Cast Members.” Bringing all these Disney teams together to create moments of happiness and joy where it’s needed most “was another wonderful example of how we can bring the ‘best of Disney,’” Breckow said.

The Latest Effort

Disney Field Day! is just the latest effort in The Walt Disney Company’s continued support of its community and employees in the LA area in the aftermath of the wildfire crisis. In addition to our work with LAUSD, Disney has provided a monetary donation to the Pasadena Educational Foundation and is in conversations with Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) to bring special experiences like these to the students and teachers impacted by the Eaton Fire.Days after the fires broke out in January 2025, Disney committed $15 million to LA fire relief & rebuilding efforts. On top of that, we’ve worked to support those affected by the fires through donations, care packages, private screenings, and even visits to Disneyland Resort for families of the heroic firefighters who battled the blazes. Read more about our efforts here. 

Usually the graphics of NFL Live, ESPN’s daily NFL studio show, showcase teams from around the league or topics that host Laura Rutledge or analysts such as Dan Orlovsky, Ryan Clark, Mina Kimes, or Marcus Spears are discussing.

But on Wednesday’s episode, the graphics were a bit different.

On yesterday’s episode, Orlovsky’s 13-year-old son, Madden, who is autistic, created graphics for NFL Live in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day. The graphics were made up of Madden’s drawings, which led to a full episode of beautiful moments on the ESPN broadcast.

It’s a special edition of NFL Live today as @danorlovsky7‘s son, Madden, has his drawings on display throughout the studio to honor World Autism Awareness Day

Way to go, Madden! pic.twitter.com/VI958WTJfx

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) April 2, 2025

“We got in the car yesterday and he has a piece of paper where all the emotions were drawn and I said, ‘Hey, how did you feel today?’ And he pointed to happy. And then I said, ‘When you saw your drawings, how did you feel?’ And he pointed to proud,” Orlovsky said. “I was telling people yesterday that the time we were in studio was the most present he’s been in a long time. That’s not to say he’s not present. He’s a great kid, but the most like locked in present… just pure happiness.”

The idea to use Madden’s drawings was the brainchild of Tim Farrell, the director of NFL Live, who came to Orlovsky last year with the idea.

“Last June, Dan tweeted out a video of a storyboard that his son had created. It was a drawing of the first time Woody and Buzz meet in Toy Story, and his tweet said, ‘Autism is his superpower. What’s yours?’ Having a connection with autism in my family, it just kind of resonated with me,” Farrell said. “The best way I can describe it is that a lightbulb moment occurred and I thought, ‘Wait, what if we had him design our entire studio?’ He could do it for World Autism Awareness Day and use it to celebrate the superpowers that people with autism bring to world.”

Ferrell added that it’s a “moment that will stay with me for my entire career.”

One moment, in particular, stood out. That was when Madden and his father sang a duet to the iconic “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from the Pixar animated classic.

“It was a moment when all the other things in life, which sometimes get in the way, didn’t,” Orlovsky said. “I told my wife, all the years of driving to a speech therapist, occupational therapist, a behavior therapist, all the people that have impacted Madden’s life, all the decisions, all the long moments, it was all encapsulated in that… He was so flawlessly presenting it, unashamed, totally in the moment. You see every emotion you could imagine all wrapped up into one.”

@danorlovsky7‘s son, Madden, helped create graphics for NFL Live in honor of World Autism Awareness Day.

Our crew reacts to this beautiful moment pic.twitter.com/YtBsWw2gbJ

— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) April 3, 2025

Farrell feels that this moment can help those in the autistic community and beyond.

“They each have their own superpower and it’s moments like this that they can show it off,” he said. “I hope that this inspires more autistic kids to show the world what their superpower is.”

As for Orlovsky, the moment was one of celebration for his family as well as for his community at ESPN.

“I think it highlighted the people behind the scenes at ESPN that have great visions and great hearts and are great people. It was also about being a part of a team. Madden doesn’t get there without a great team behind him. My wife, his siblings, all the teachers that he’s had,” he said. “And yesterday most definitely doesn’t happen without the team at ESPN.”

The Walt Disney Company today announced that it will celebrate Earth Month with an enterprise-wide campaign led by National Geographic to inspire audiences to appreciate the world around us using the power of storytelling.

Throughout April, the ourHOME campaign will feature exciting new content releases, as well as digital and experiential activations, and will showcase global efforts to protect, restore, and celebrate the natural world — allowing viewers, fans, and followers to discover there is even more to love about this place we call home.

Returning after its successful inaugural year, the ourHOME campaign is rooted in Disney and National Geographic’s shared legacy of transformative storytelling that inspires a deeper connection to our world. Disney is committed to taking meaningful action to support a healthier planet for people and wildlife, a commitment that helped to inspire the creation of the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF), which kicks off a yearlong celebration of its 30th anniversary as part of the ourHOME campaign. DCF will award more than $500,000 in philanthropic grants this April to nonprofit organizations working to provide inspirational experiences for youth to connect with nature and support wildlife and wild places in their communities.

Available all year long, the ourHOME Collection on Disney+ celebrates the beauty, awe and wonder of our planet through acclaimed content such as Secrets of the Octopus, Queens, and A Real Bug’s Life, along with the full library of Disneynature films. Additionally, three global premieres will debut during Earth Week: National Geographic’s Secrets of the Penguins, along with Disneynature’s Sea Lions of the Galapagos and Guardians of the Galapagos.

Secrets of the Penguins premieres Sunday, April 20, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on National Geographic, with all episodes streaming Monday, April 21, on Disney+ and Hulu. Featuring Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning Nat Geo Explorer Bertie Gregory and narrated by Blake Lively, this latest installment in National Geographic’s Emmy-winning Secrets of franchise takes viewers of all ages to the farthest corners of the world to witness penguin behaviors captured on film for the first time — showcasing the cute and fluffy flightless birds as they brave some of the most extreme environments on Earth.

Sea Lions of the Galapagos premieres Tuesday, April 22, on Disney+. This all-new feature film, narrated by Brendan Fraser, dives underwater with Leo, a handsome sea lion pup who’s learning how to navigate life alongside his mother, Luna. Leo must leave his mother’s colony to find his own home — a monumental quest fraught with challenges and new encounters with an array of creatures, from marine iguanas and racer snakes to yellowfin tuna and giant Galapagos sharks.

Guardians of the Galapagos also debuts April 22 on Disney+. Blair Underwood narrates this behind-the-scenes look at Sea Lions of the Galapagos as the Disneynature crew captures intimate sea lion behaviors while showcasing the challenges that threaten the archipelago and the community of champions — the Guardians of the Galapagos — who work to protect this magical place.

National Geographic is the most-followed brand on social media and connects with more than 780 million followers across its social channels. The ourHOME campaign will leverage this unrivaled social presence to showcase the planet’s magical wildlife and wild places with curated daily posts on relevant Disney and National Geographic handles. During the Nat Geo Your Shot ourHOME challenge (#NatGeoYourShotOurHOME), fans can share their own incredible images that celebrate the beauty of nature for a chance to be featured on @NatGeoYourShot.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating the return of the ourHOME campaign, which unites the power of Nat Geo storytelling and Disney’s commitment to supporting a healthier planet through best-in-class content and experiential offerings,” said Courteney Monroe, President, National Geographic. “Together, we hope to inspire explorers of all ages to discover and preserve our beautiful planet.”

The ourHOME campaign will feature activations across The Walt Disney Company, including the following:

Content

• ourHOME Collection on Disney+ – Disney+’s evergreen ourHOME Collection features content that celebrates the beauty, awe and wonder of our planet.
• Secrets of the Penguins – The latest installment of National Geographic’s Emmy-winning Secrets of franchise, featuring Gregory and narrated by Lively, premieres April 20 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on National Geographic, with all episodes streaming April 21 on Disney+ and Hulu.
• Sea Lions of the Galapagos – The all-new Disneynature feature film, narrated by Fraser, premieres April 22 on Disney+.
• Guardians of the Galapagos – A behind-the-scenes look at Sea Lions of the Galapagos, narrated by Underwood, debuts April 22 on Disney+.
• Dedicated ourHOME Spot – Airing throughout the month across all of Disney networks, Disney-owned television stations and select digital platforms
• ourHOME-Themed Programming – Programming scheduled across U.S. networks, including National Geographic, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, ABC News, Disney Channel, and Disney Jr.
• National Geographic Society PSA – National Geographic Society public service announcement highlighting penguin conservation work will air throughout the month on National Geographic Channel and Nat Geo Wild

Digital

• Nat Geo Social – Using the full power of Nat Geo’s social presence, ourHOME will be amplified throughout the month with curated daily ourHOME posts around the three campaign pillars: Protect, Restore, and Celebrate.
• Relevant social handles will celebrate ourHOME all month long, including @Disney, @Disney+, @NatGeo, @NatGeoTV, @NatGeoWILD, @NatGeoTravel, @NatGeoAdventure, and @NatGeoDocs.
• Fans can share their own incredible images that celebrate the beauty of the planet during the Nat Geo Your Shot ourHOME challenge. Tag #NatGeoYourShotOurHOME by April 22 for a chance to be featured on @NatGeoYourShot on Instagram.

Disney Experiences

• Guests will have the opportunity to celebrate Earth Month throughout April with special activations that include the following:
  • Secrets of the Penguins photo moments and themed kids menus at select restaurants at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts.
  • Disneyland Resort will host renowned TV personality and science communicator Danni Washington at the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival from April 5-6. Additionally, the Zero Waste Art Challenge is back. See the top 10 art projects created by Disneyland Resort cast members from waste and recycled items at Silly Symphony Swings in Disney California Adventure park. Vote for your favorite projects by searching “Earth Month” on the Disneyland app.
  • Disney Cruise Line will offer onboard screenings of the National Geographic documentary Magic of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, which showcases how Disney Imagineers and conservation biologists worked with the local community to create this newest island destination.
  • “Celebrate Earth Month Fair” will return to Disneytown at Shanghai Disney Resort from April 18-22, with a series of themed booths and interactive activities highlighting the resort’s nature conservation commitment.

ourHOME Sweepstakes

• ourHOME National Geographic Sweepstakes – U.S. residents (18+) can enter for a chance to win a National Geographic – Lindblad Expeditions cruise for two, including airfare, for an unforgettable Antarctic adventure. Sweeps entry period is from April 15-30. Additional details to be announced.

Giving

• This Earth Month, the Disney Conservation Fund will kick off a yearlong celebration of its 30th anniversary, featuring ongoing stories of success, inspiring moments, and celebratory grants. DCF will award more than $500,000 in philanthropic grants this April to nonprofit organizations working to provide inspirational experiences for youth to connect with nature and support wildlife and wild places in their communities, including the following:
  • “Promoting Biodiversity Conservation in the Galapagos, Conservation International,” in celebration of Disneynature’s Sea Lions of the Galapagos
  • “A Legacy for Penguins,” National Geographic Society and Global Penguin Society, led by National Geographic Explorer Pablo (Popi) García Borboroglu, in celebration of National Geographic’s Secrets of the Penguins
  • “Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots,” Jane Goodall Institute
  • “REEL WILD NEW YORK Film Festival,” Wildlife Conservation Society
  • “Party for the Planet,” Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Community

• Across the globe, dedicated Disney VoluntEARS are coming together to make an impact — leading more than 60 projects throughout April, including special initiatives on Earth Day. From cleaning up local parks to restoring rivers and much more, thousands of Cast Members, crew members, Imagineers, and employees will work together to create a brighter future for the planet.
• Cast members in Los Angeles, New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Bristol will have the opportunity to sign up for clean-up projects in their communities with Keep America Beautiful.

Cast Members

• Special Earth Month employee engagement screenings and events will be held around the world.

To show its appreciation for the brave individuals who responded on the frontlines of the recent fires in Los Angeles, Disneyland Resort is announcing the Heroes Ticket, inviting them and a guest to experience a day of fun at the “Happiest Place on Earth.”

“We are inspired by the endless dedication and contributions of the heroes who battled the fires that took place in the LA area, and our gratitude for their service is immeasurable,” Ken Potrock, Disneyland Resort President, said. “We hope these heroes can enjoy a memorable day with a loved one at our parks, because they certainly deserve it.”

The Heroes Ticket will be available to eligible California firefighters as well as eligible Los Angeles-based law enforcement personnel and emergency medical technicians who helped combat the LA fires in January 2025, and individuals from departments that provided mutual aid assistance. The Heroes Ticket will be valid from May 5 – Aug. 7, 2025, Mondays through Thursdays. A theme park reservation will be required and is subject to availability.

More detailed information, including eligibility and verification requirements, and how to register for the tickets, will be communicated directly to qualifying fire, police and sheriff’s departments in April.

The Heroes Ticket is one of the many ways The Walt Disney Company is supporting relief efforts in the community:

• Last month, the company announced a $15 million commitment for immediate response and rebuilding efforts in the Los Angeles area.
• Disney VoluntEARS hosted donation drives to collect more than 200,000 essential items for impacted individuals and families.
• Beginning Feb. 6, a new Disney LA Strong t-shirt is available for purchase on DisneyStore.com as a symbol of community support, and a reminder that together we have the strength to rebuild and heal. For each t-shirt sold in the U.S. through December 31, 2025, Disney will donate $25 to the American Red Cross to help people affected by the fires in California during 2025.
• Learn more about the company’s work to support its community and employees in the LA area in the aftermath of the fires.

The history of The Walt Disney Company is inextricably linked to the greater Los Angeles region, and the destruction from the devastating fires that have affected thousands in our area is truly heartbreaking.

“The Walt Disney Company is committed to supporting our community and our employees as we all work together to recover and rebuild from this unbelievable devastation,” said Bob Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “Walt Disney came to Los Angeles with little more than his limitless imagination, and it was here that he chose to make his home, pursue his dreams, and create extraordinary storytelling that means so much to so many people around the world. We are proud to provide assistance to this resilient and vibrant community in this moment of need.”These are some of the many ways that The Walt Disney Company has been working to support its community and employees in the LA area in the aftermath of this crisis.

Disney Commits $15 Million To LA Fire Relief & Rebuilding Efforts

The Walt Disney Company committed $15 million for initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts, supporting vital organizations offering essential services on the ground like the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, among others.Beyond critical relief efforts, Disney is working closely with business and community leaders to find ways to support important rebuilding efforts in the region.

Disney Opens Wardrobe Warehouse for Employees

Disney Entertainment Television invited employees, production crew, and their families who lost their homes to its wardrobe warehouse in North Hollywood to collect new or gently used clothing and shoes from recent Disney film and TV productions at no expense.

“Most companies are not sitting on an entire warehouse full of wardrobe — some of which has been barely used, if it’s been used at all,” said Heidi Chong, Vice President of Production Shared Services for Disney Entertainment Television. “We really want to emphasize to the families: ‘If you come here, we’ve already organized everything for you. It’s all on display on the racks. You can find what you need.’ There are no limits to the amounts that people are getting; it’s really about what they need.”

Disney Employee Relief Fund and Housing Assistance

Disney teams have been working diligently to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our employees, many of whom have been impacted by these fires. We’ve infused additional resources into our Disney Employee Relief Fund — a fund maintained for Cast Members and employees who have been affected by natural disaster or financial hardship — to help those facing distress because of this crisis. Additionally, Disney has provided both short-term and long-term housing to employees who have been displaced by the fires.

Disney VoluntEARS Assemble Hundreds of Comfort Kits for Kids

Disney VoluntEARS quickly mobilized to assemble hundreds of Disney-themed comfort kits and care packages —which included coloring and activity books, plush, and more provided by the Disney Experiences team — for kids staying in American Red Cross shelters in response to the tragic wildfires that have impacted the Los Angeles area. VoluntEARS also packed boxes of items including books, chairs, games, blankets, and more to help fill the kid’s space in the Pasadena shelter.“If there’s one company that can bring a smile to somebody’s face when they’re going through their most difficult time, it’s Disney,” Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences, said. “You look at operations like this, where Cast Members are coming together, everyone wants to reach out and help. And that’s what we’re here to do.”

Disney Hosts Community Screenings at El Capitan Theatre

Disney’s historic El Capitan Theatre opened its doors to host complimentary screenings of its latest hits, Moana 2 and Mufasa: The Lion King, to help bring a little happiness to kids and families in the LA community affected by the wildfires.General Manager James Wood, who has worked at the theatre in various roles since 2001, shared that having these screenings in Hollywood at the El Capitan Theatre, “a place that’s close to 100 years old, really showcases that we are going to keep going, that Los Angeles is a place that is strong, that will continue and will always continue.”

Disney Hosts Donation Drives for LA Fire Relief

Many across the Los Angeles region have lost homes, belongings, and access to basic necessities, leaving them in urgent need of support. Disney VoluntEARS have worked to collect essential items and make them available to families and individuals impacted by the wildfires with the help of community organizations, including Shelter Partnership, Helping Hands, and LA Unified School District.“Since the moment this disaster hit, our employees have been asking what they can do to help,” said Lisa Haines, senior vice president, Corporate Social Responsibility, The Walt Disney Company. “The Disney VoluntEARS team quickly mobilized to put on one of the largest disaster relief drives our company has done, collecting more than 200,000 items from employees and Cast Members across the company. This outpouring of support is just one of the many ways we are coming together to help those who have lost so much.”

Donation drives occurred at The Walt Disney Studios Lot, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Disneyland Resort, and other Disney locations.

Disney and Local Boys & Girls Clubs Bring Mufasa: The Lion King to Children Affected by California Fires

At Boys & Girls Clubs in Los Angeles, Disney helped to bring a bit of happiness and sense of normalcy to children impacted by the devastating wildfires in the region with private screenings of the box office hit Mufasa: The Lion King.“When the team proposed the idea of hosting these screenings for kids who have been impacted by the fires, it was an instant yes — followed by the question, ‘And what more can we do?’” shared Cathleen Taff, President, Production Services, Franchise Management & Theatrical Distribution, Disney Entertainment, Studios. “We know the joy and comfort a Disney movie can bring to a child and their family, and we’re honored to provide that sense of happiness and escape for these kids.”

Some snacks and fun giveaways included Mufasa tumblers, friendship bracelets, and Mickey Mouse rice krispy treats. The goodies were accompanied by a surprise visit from Mickey Mouse himself, whose appearance in Pasadena was met with excitement from kids — and Boys & Girls Club staff — as he welcomed them with high fives.

Disney LA Strong T-Shirts Benefit Fire Relief Efforts

A new Disney LA Strong t-shirt is available for purchase on DisneyStore.com as a symbol of community support, and a reminder that together we have the strength to rebuild and heal. For each t-shirt sold in the U.S. through December 31, 2025, Disney will donate $25 to the American Red Cross to help people affected by the wildfires in California during 2025.The idea for the Disney LA Strong t-shirt emerged from the desire of Disney employees to give back and show support to those who have been impacted by the fires. The shirt is a tribute to the Los Angeles community’s resilience — its strength, spirit, and ultimately its ability to rise above adversity.

Disneyland Resort Honors Heroes of LA Fires with Complimentary Theme Park Tickets

To show appreciation for the brave individuals who responded on the frontlines of the recent fires in Los Angeles, Disneyland Resort is announcing the Heroes Ticket, inviting them and a guest to experience a day of fun at the “Happiest Place on Earth.”

“We are inspired by the endless dedication and contributions of the heroes who battled the fires that took place in the LA area, and our gratitude for their service is immeasurable,” said Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock. “We hope these heroes can enjoy a memorable day with a loved one at our parks, because they certainly deserve it.”

First Responders Invited to Attend Marvel Studios Hollywood Premiere

Disney Consumer Products invited Disney employees who lost their homes in the LA fires and nonprofit organizations supporting fire relief efforts to collect a variety of new, donated items during special events in Glendale, CA. Hundreds of Disney VoluntEARS helped sort and distribute the items, which included home goods, clothing, books, toys, bookbags, and more.

Disneyland Resort Celebrates Heroes with Special Cavalcade & Provides $2 Million Product Donation

Several local firefighters and police personnel were greeted with a heroes’ welcome at Disneyland Resort on May 5, where a special cavalcade was held to honor all of those who bravely responded on the frontlines of the devastating Los Angeles fires. Alongside the first responders, Disneyland Fire Department cast members Mark McLean and Larry Chu were also among the day’s honorees thanks to their efforts battling the fires with local fire departments. The celebration marked the first day eligible California firefighters, Los Angeles-based law enforcement personnel, and emergency medical technicians, who helped combat the LA fires, could use their complimentary Heroes Tickets to visit The Happiest Place on Earth.

In addition, the Disneyland Resort team continued its support of fire relief efforts with a donation of over 60,000 plush items, toys, and puzzles for schools and non-profit organizations affected by fires. Anaheim-based Disney VoluntEARS sorted and organized the items before providing them to the community — with the total donation valued at over $2.2 million for those affected.

Disney and Its Imagineers Reimagine Community Spaces Damaged by Wildfires

The Walt Disney Company’s Imagineers — the creative minds behind some of the world’s most iconic experiences — are applying their visionary talents to help rebuild and reimagine public spaces that were lost in this year’s devastating wildfires across Los Angeles.

As part of its ongoing $15 million commitment to help LA recover from the disaster, Disney is directing $5 million to support the reopening of Altadena’s Charles White Park, which was destroyed in the January blaze. The revitalized park will feature a new community center and an enhanced playground infused with Disney magic to bring joy to families in the area for its anticipated reopening in 2026.

KABC Volunteers Help Rebuild a Home with Habitat for Humanity One Year After the LA Fires

As the greater Los Angeles region works to rebuild in the wake of the destructive fires, our hearts are with everyone across Southern California who has been affected by this tragedy. We want to express our overwhelming gratitude to the heroic firefighters and first responders whose courage and professionalism have been a source of tremendous encouragement and pride. Likewise, we are grateful for the outstanding local reporters at KABC and elsewhere who have been a vital resource to all.

This community’s strength is rooted in its people, and we are proud to be a part of it and offer our support. To learn more about Disney’s social responsibility efforts, please visit impact.disney.com.

This week at Boys & Girls Clubs in Los Angeles, Disney helped to bring a bit of happiness and sense of normalcy to children impacted by the devastating wildfires in the region with private screenings of the box office hit Mufasa: The Lion King. “When the team proposed the idea of hosting these screenings for kids who have been impacted by the fires, it was an instant yes — followed by the question, ‘And what more can we do?’” shared Cathleen Taff, President, Production Services, Franchise Management & Theatrical Distribution, Disney Entertainment, Studios. “We know the joy and comfort a Disney movie can bring to a child and their family, and we’re honored to provide that sense of happiness and escape for these kids.” The Boys & Girls Clubs of Pasadena and Santa Monica — longtime collaborators with Disney and chapters where movie parties were hosted this week — have been serving kids whose families lost their homes, are displaced, or are otherwise impacted by the fires. That includes serving families from the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, which is currently inoperable due to the fires. With many impacted kids having been out of school for weeks, the Pasadena club has also opened its space to establish a temporary school and help kids get back to learning.Brynja Seagren, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Santa Monica noted, “Throughout this crisis, we’ve focused on continuing to provide access to safe, supportive spaces for kids and we are grateful to Disney for bringing some magic right to our Clubs. They created an on-site movie theater experience featuring themed treats and swag that brought huge smiles to our kids’ faces as they experienced the story of Disney characters they know and love.”Some of those snacks and fun giveaways included Mufasa tumblers, friendship bracelets, and Mickey Mouse rice krispy treats. The goodies were accompanied by a surprise visit from Mickey Mouse himself, whose appearance in Pasadena was met with excitement from kids — and Boys & Girls Club staff — as he welcomed them with high fives. The young audience members also quizzed their celebrity visitor on whether or not he’d seen the film — he had.

The kids even became active participants in the screening, as they happily sang along to Mufasa’s catchy soundtrack.“During difficult times like these, we know that Disney is uniquely positioned to bring a sense of normalcy and happiness to kids when it’s needed the most,” Lisa Haines, senior vice president, Disney Corporate Social Responsibility, shared. “These movie parties are one piece of our efforts to lift up the kids and their families that have been affected by these fires.”This week’s special Mufasa screenings also came together thanks to community efforts, including from Sweetwater, a local business that donated the screening technology to turn the Boys & Girls Club gyms into on-site cinemas.

“Over 70 Club families have lost their homes, and dozens more are displaced,” Lisa Cavelier, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena, said. “We are honored that Disney is working with us to meet some of the challenges facing our families by bringing much-needed joy and fun to Pasadena and Altadena kids.”

For more than 50 years, Disney has supported our local Boys & Girls Clubs. Walt Disney himself was an honorary Boys & Girls Clubs board member because he believed in their mission to help young people realize their dreams. Disney’s commitment to inspire kids to pursue their dreams continues today.

Local Boys & Girls Clubs also received funding as part of Disney’s $15 million for initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts in the face of the devastating Los Angeles area fires. Additional Disney relief efforts include opening the wardrobe warehouse to affected employees, as well as company donation drives to collect and pack hygiene items, comfort kits, games and toys for numerous local non-profits, community screenings at the El Capitan in Hollywood for those displaced, and fundraising efforts across ABC news under the SoCal Strong banner which have raised nearly $10 million for relief efforts.For more information about the company’s social responsibility efforts, visit impact.disney.com.Photo Credit on Top Image: Haven Captures

In the wake of devastating wildfires impacting the Los Angeles area, teams across The Walt Disney Company have been dedicated to supporting the community and their fellow employees and cast members.  

Many across the Los Angeles region have lost homes, belongings, and access to basic necessities, leaving them in urgent need of support. Disney VoluntEARS are working to collect essential items and make them available to families and individuals impacted by the wildfires with the help of community organizations, including Shelter Partnership, Helping Hands, and LAUSD.  

“Since the moment this disaster hit, our employees have been asking what they can do to help,” said Lisa Haines, senior vice president, Corporate Social Responsibility, The Walt Disney Company. “The Disney VoluntEARS team quickly mobilized to put on one of the largest disaster relief drives our company has done, collecting more than 200,000 items from employees and Cast Members across the company. This outpouring of support is just one of the many ways we are coming together to help those who have lost so much.” 

Here are a few of the donation drives throughout the region where cast members and employees have donated items and volunteered their time in support of the Los Angeles community. 

Donation Drive at The Walt Disney Studios Lot

Disney hosted a Los Angeles Area Fire Relief Donation Drive at The Walt Disney Studios Lot in Burbank and packaged over 127,000 essential items for those affected. Nearly 1,000 cast members and employees from across Southern California donated new items and volunteered to count, sort, and pack items such as hygiene essentials, baby supplies, games and toys. The teams at Fox, Hulu, and ABC satellite offices also collected items to contribute to the larger drive.

“Disney’s magic is in our people, and seeing the Disney VoluntEARS in action pulls at my heartstrings. I love that we’re providing a little bit of comfort and happiness to families who have been impacted by the fires,” said Kym Belzer, senior manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, The Walt Disney Company. “Events like this give an outlet for employees to be a part of something, especially rebuilding the lives of the families who have been impacted by the fires.”Leading by example, executives and their teams came to help alongside hundreds of Disney VoluntEARS.

Jimmy Kimmel Live Donation Center

Jimmy Kimmel Liveorganized the “Jimmy Kimmel Live Donation Center” on its Hollywood backlot to collect essential resources for those impacted by the LA fires. Staff, friends, and fans came together to collect nearly 70,000 much-needed items during the week-long drive.

“[The wildfires have] been a sickening, shocking, awful experience. But it has also been, in a lot of ways, a beautiful experience. Because once again, we see our fellow men and women coming together to support each other,” Jimmy Kimmel said in his monologue following the start of the fires. The Kimmel team brought the donations to a pop-up distribution center for those with immediate needs in Altadena. At the end of the week, two five-ton trucks of donations were delivered to a soundstage at Disney’s Burbank Studio lot, where Disney VoluntEARS counted and sorted the items at the donation drive event for additional distribution.  

Disneyland Resort Donation Drive

In the Disneyland Resort spirit, more than 60 Anaheim-based Disney VoluntEARS, including Disney Ambassador of Disneyland Resort Raul Aquino Rojas, collected and sorted essential items donated by hundreds of Disneyland Resort cast members to support those impacted in the local community.“I’m so proud to see our Disneyland Resort cast members come together to provide relief for the communities affected by the fires,” Rojas said “Every contribution, no matter how small, helps rebuild lives — reminding us all that together, we can overcome anything.

”The event also brought teams together, as some Disneyland Resort cast members were personally impacted by the fires. One cast member, Jennifer Santillan, manager, Guest Talent & Imagination Campus, was able to reunite at the event with a fellow cast member who lost her home.“You want to always think of a way to help, a way to think outside the box and help those that are in need, and the best way is to take action. Today, I get to take action in helping those that will need these items, need some joy and need one less thing to worry about,” Santillan said.

By the end of the event, Disneyland Resort had collected more than 50,000 essential items and supplies to contribute to wildfire relief efforts.

Volunteering is an important and enduring part of Disney’s DNA, and Disney VoluntEARS have collectively contributed more than 13 million hours of service to their communities since the program’s inception in 1983. To learn more about Disney VoluntEARS and the company’s Los Angeles fire relief efforts, please visit impact.disney.com.

In response to the devastating fires that destroyed thousands of structures and tens of thousands of acres across Los Angeles, The Walt Disney Company has been mobilizing its businesses to help support relief and recovery efforts, including the company’s flagship cinema in Hollywood — The El Capitan Theatre — a historic, restored 1920s movie palace.

“When you step into a movie, you’re transported to another world,” James Wood, the General Manager of The El Capitan, said.

This week, The El Capitan offered that escape into another world by hosting complimentary screenings of its latest hits, Moana 2 and Mufasa: The Lion King, to help bring a little happiness like only Disney can to kids and families in the LA community affected by the wildfires.

Opening Doors to the Community

Like many others across The Walt Disney Company, as fires broke out around the greater Los Angeles region, the team at The El Capitan asked themselves, “What can we do during this time?” Wood said.

“Well, the best thing we do is entertain,” he said.

As it happened, the Disney Corporate Social Responsibility team also had the idea to host complimentary screenings, and within 48 hours, those screenings went from idea to reality.

“We have opened our doors to the entire community,” Wood said. “We want people to have a sense of normalcy in a very challenging time.”

To get the word out, Disney extended invitations to local school districts and nonprofits supporting kids and families who have been directly impacted by the fires, including several Boys & Girls Clubs in the LA area. KABC — a Disney owned television station — also helped to spread news of the screenings.

To make a wonderful experience for these special guests, Disney and The El Capitan also provided free drinks, popcorn, collectibles and film posters. Ghirardelli Chocolate shop — which has a location next door to the El Capitan — also sweetened the experience with chocolate bars.

Families took photos next to images of some of Disney’s iconic films, often with the help of Disney employees who donate their time to their local communities. These employees are a part of a program at Disney called Disney VoluntEARS.

“Disney VoluntEARS greet all of the families as they come in, making sure that their experience is top notch, and really to that Disney standard,” Sarah Whitney, Senior Manager, CSR at Disney Entertainment, said.

Making New Memories

The goal has been “to provide new memories for these families,” Whitney noted. “We hope that this gives families the opportunity to have that safe space and be able to come back rejuvenated.”

Wood has been able to peek into the theatre during screenings and see how the guests are reacting. “It seems like a joyous, normal moviegoing experience, which is what we wanted it to be,” he said.

The history of Disney is inextricably linked to the LA area and the teams across the company have been working tirelessly to help our hometown community bounce back from these devastating fires.

That includes committing $15 million for initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts; Disney Entertainment Television opening its wardrobe warehouse in North Hollywood to employees who lost their homes; assembling hundreds of comfort kits for kids impacted by the fires; hosting various donation drives across the company; ABC News Group expanding its SoCal Strong coverage across platforms; and much more.

The El Capitan is “Disney’s home on Hollywood Boulevard,” Wood explained.

Wood, who has worked at the theatre in various roles since 2001, added that having these screenings in the El Capitan Theatre, “a place that’s close to 100 years old, really showcases that we are going to keep going, that Los Angeles is a place that is strong, that will continue and will always continue.”

Last week, Disney VoluntEARS quickly mobilized to assemble hundreds of Disney-themed comfort kits and care packages for kids staying in American Red Cross shelters in response to the tragic wildfires impacting the Los Angeles area.

Disney VoluntEARS put together the comfort kits, including coloring and activity books, plush, and more provided by the Disney Experiences team. VoluntEARS also packed boxes of new items including books, chairs, games, blankets, and more to help fill the kid’s space in the Pasadena shelter.

“If there’s one company that can bring a smile to somebody’s face when they’re going through their most difficult time, it’s Disney,” Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences, said. “You look at operations like this, where Cast Members are coming together, everyone wants to reach out and help. And that’s what we’re here to do.”

Additionally, Disney is working with the American Red Cross to identify other ways to bring a little bit of happiness to the kids and families staying in shelters, including potential Disney movie screenings.

“I’m deeply grateful for Disney’s unwavering support of our mission and their generous commitment to help those in need,” Cliff Holtz, president and CEO of the American Red Cross, said. “Just last week, I was able to connect with Bob Iger when he visited an American Red Cross shelter in Pasadena. I can’t thank the Disney team enough for standing with us to bring hope and comfort in the wake of these devastating wildfires.”

Mobilizing for a Cause

With so many children and families displaced as a result of the wildfires, Disney teams have been dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations serving the local community and employees in Southern California.

“The Disney VoluntEARS came together at a moment’s notice to help us compile these comfort kits and care packages,” Karen Kawanami, Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Experiences, said. “They care so much about the communities and the nonprofits that Disney works with.”

Volunteering is an important part of The Walt Disney Company’s culture, and with thousands impacted by the Los Angeles area fires — including Disney Cast Members, employees, and their families — the Disney VoluntEARS leapt into action.

“This is really part of the DNA of our company,” John Breckow, Director, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Experiences, said. “Our employee base has such a strong sense of community, of giving back. Frankly, that’s why I work here.”

Calling it “an all-hands-on-deck moment for Disney,” Breckow said it was a company-wide effort to gather everything required to fill the comfort kits and care packages.

“We have VoluntEARS from everywhere, but we’ve also got items from everywhere. We have Mickey Krispie treats from Disneyland, and we have coloring books from Disney Consumer Products,” he said.

D’Amaro went on to say that “for kids who have gone through a situation like this, where maybe they’ve lost their home and they find themselves in a shelter, to open a Disney bag, to see a Disney plush inside, and to be able to read a Disney book — these are things that warm people’s hearts.”

Investing in Each Other

For many of the Disney VoluntEARS assembling comfort kits and care packages for the American Red Cross, the event felt especially personal. Being able to give back during such a difficult time — and to do so with colleagues and friends — also reaffirmed a sense of community and pride among the Disney VoluntEARS.

“We are headquartered here; this is our home,” Breckow said. “When you live in Los Angeles, you take care of Los Angeles. I’m so proud to see how we here at Disney rally in a moment like this.”

VoluntEARS efforts like this are just one way that Disney is offering support to its community and employees impacted by the tragic event.

Earlier this month the company announced it is committing $15 million for initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts in the area — including funding for the American Red Cross, an organization that Disney has supported for decades. Disney recently opened its wardrobe warehouse to help support employees, production crews, and their families who lost their homes and Good Morning Americaannounced on Friday that more than $6 million was raised as part of ABC News’ SoCal Strong. Disney is also airing the American Red Cross wildfire PSA across ABC, ABC Owned TV stations, Freeform, FX, Nat Geo, and Hulu.

For more information on the company’s social responsibility efforts, visit impact.disney.com.

Amid the devastating wildfires impacting the Los Angeles area, The Walt Disney Company has been working around the clock to find ways to support its community and employees in the LA area during this tragic time.

This week, Disney Entertainment Television invited employees, production crew, and their families who lost their homes to its wardrobe warehouse in North Hollywood to collect new or gently used clothing and shoes from recent Disney film and TV productions at no expense.

“Most companies are not sitting on an entire warehouse full of wardrobe — some of which has been barely used, if it’s been used at all,” said Heidi Chong, Vice President of Production Shared Services for Disney Entertainment Television. “We really want to emphasize to the families: ‘If you come here, we’ve already organized everything for you. It’s all on display on the racks. You can find what you need.’ There are no limits to the amounts that people are getting; it’s really about what they need.”

Belen Buenrrostro, Manager, Asset Management, Disney Entertainment Television, jumped into action e-mailing her manager about opening the warehouse to those affected and said, “This might be a long shot, but can we make it happen?”

“The turnaround was so quick, but we had an outpouring of support,” Buenrrostro continued. “It was nice to see us all come together as a Disney family to help everybody.”

Collective Compassion

To make this resource a reality, this employee-driven effort required company-wide collaboration.

Chong noted that “we involved a lot of teams to pull this event together quickly,” including Disney Entertainment Television, Human Resources, Global Security, communications, and some of the production teams.

Disney Entertainment Production worked in the warehouse all weekend long — and by Monday, more than 80 Disney VoluntEARS were unpacking boxes, sorting items by size and style, and preparing to welcome members of the Disney community who needed their support.

“Disney has been coordinating a lot of resources through our Employee Care & Support team,” said Chong. “We worked with that team to identify which families had been impacted and should be invited to this event.”

Invitations were sent out via email earlier this week. Invited Cast Members and employees are asked to register online and select a shopping window that is convenient for them. If the dates and/or times do not work — or if they are in more urgent need — accommodations will be made to assist them.

“We really want to make the experience as easy and friendly as possible,” Buenrrostro said. “We give everyone a rack and assign them a buddy shopper. We also set up a play area for the kids, where we stream Disney+ movies and offer games and snacks.”

Common Thread

The warehouse includes wardrobe from productions such as Genius: MLK/X, grown-ish, The Old Man, Station 19, UnPrisoned, and Wizards Beyond WaverlyPlace. This has allowed Disney to offer a wide variety of options to each Cast Member, employee, and family member.

“It’s very heartwarming to see everybody find things they like,” Buenrrostro said. “We had one family that’s really into vintage clothing, and they were so excited that we offer more than just new, store-bought items.”

Buenrrostro noted that “we have tons of clothes” — over 250 racks, in fact, and were able to get another 50 racks in just a day.

The support that Disney is offering also extends to the greater Los Angeles area. Last week, the company announced that it is committing $15 million for initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts.

According to Chong, the event has been empowering for everyone involved.

“Everybody wants to participate and wants to help those around them, but it’s hard to know how,” she said. “This was very tangible. There was real work to do, whether that was packing bags or unboxing new clothing items, and today we’re seeing that make a real impact on individuals’ lives at a time when everything feels overwhelming.”

Chong said that this resource has been “something that’s made me feel really proud to be part of Disney — especially today.”

The history of The Walt Disney Company is inextricably linked to the greater Los Angeles region, and the destruction from the devastating fires affecting thousands in our area is truly heartbreaking. Today we are committing $15 million for initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts.

We will be supporting vital organizations offering essential services on the ground, including the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, among others. Additionally, we’ve been working around the clock to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our employees, many of whom have been impacted by these fires, and we intend to provide further resources to our Employee Relief Fund to help those facing hardship as a result of this crisis.

Beyond critical relief efforts, we will be working closely with the business community to find ways to support important rebuilding efforts in the region.

“As this tragedy continues to unfold, The Walt Disney Company is committed to supporting our community and our employees as we all work together to recover and rebuild from this unbelievable devastation,” said Bob Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “Walt Disney came to Los Angeles with little more than his limitless imagination, and it was here that he chose to make his home, pursue his dreams, and create extraordinary storytelling that means so much to so many people around the world. We are proud to provide assistance to this resilient and vibrant community in this moment of need.”

We want to express our overwhelming gratitude to the heroic firefighters and first responders from across the area and around the country whose unbelievable courage and professionalism have been a source of tremendous encouragement and pride this week. Likewise, we are grateful for the outstanding local reporters at KABC and elsewhere who have been a vital resource to all.

While the fires continue to rage and the full extent of the damage won’t be understood for some time, our hearts are with everyone across Southern California who has been affected by the destructive fires, and we urge residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidance from local officials. This community’s strength is rooted in its people, and we are proud to be a part of it and offer our support.

The Walt Disney Company honors and celebrates veterans and their families year-round, but the month of November is a special one, as it is National Veterans and Military Families Month.

Disney has a long track record of respect and appreciation for those who serve, which goes back to its founders, Walt and Roy Disney, who both served their country during the First World War. Many veterans now call Disney home after serving in uniform, bringing a level of experience, leadership, work ethic, and dedication that we value across our businesses.

Here are some ways that we are celebrating veterans both inside and outside the company this month:

November 4: Disney VoluntEARS event with USO at Disneyland

• During a Disney VoluntEARS event at Disneyland Resort, cast members packed an impressive 2,000 United Service Organizations (USO) care kits to send to deployed service members around the globe. To date, Disney has assembled more than 21,000 USO care kits this year.

November 7-11: ESPN’s Veterans Week Initiatives

• In honor of Veterans Day, ESPN will recognize veterans and active members of the U.S. Armed Forces during its annual Veterans Week tribute, which includes a week of programming and initiatives from November 7 to 11. Among the highlights is the SportsCenter Veterans Day Special Presented by USAA, which aired on Friday, November 8, at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN and airing again on Sunday, November 17, at 2 p.m. on ABC. Hosted by NFL national reporter Sal Paolantonio, the 30-minute program originates from Kannapolis, North Carolina, with a focus on military-themed features from ESPN’s Veterans Week coverage.

November 11: Veterans Day Events

• NYC Veterans Day Parade: WABC New York hosted a live broadcast of the 105th annual NYC Veterans Day parade on Monday. WABC-TV anchor David Novarro and ABC News’ Stephanie Ramos hosted with WABC-TV reporter Lucy Yang along the parade route on Fifth Avenue.
• Walt Disney World Veterans Day Flag Retreat in Magic Kingdom Park: In honor of Veterans Day, four Florida-based Disney cast members who are also veterans were recognized during a special annual Flag Retreat ceremony in Magic Kingdom in celebration of their service.
• Disneyland Resort Veterans Day Flag Retreat in Disneyland Park: In honor of Veterans Day, Disneyland Resort hosted a special flag retreat ceremony that included 150 cast members marching down Main Street, U.S.A., and then viewing the longstanding flag retreat ceremony.

November 12: Walt Disney World Resort/Fisher House Orlando Holiday Veterans Event

• Walt Disney World Resort hosted its annual holiday outreach event at Orlando Fisher House, which is built by the Fisher House Foundation to provide a “home away from home” for military and veteran families to stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving medical treatment at a nearby VA hospital or military medical center. Disney VoluntEARS and members of the SALUTE Florida employee resource group once again helped decorate the facility for the holidays.

Nov 13: Disney Experiences/VoluntEARS Assemble Care Packages for Blue Star Families

• Disney VoluntEARS and SALUTE members in Glendale assembled 500 care packages filled with Disney home goods and other essentials for Blue Star Families to help welcome military families that transition into new communities. Many of the care packages will be sent to MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida, to help families impacted by the recent hurricanes.

Late November:Disneyland Resort to host a special flag retreat honoring 101-year-old World War II veteran

• Disneyland Resort will host a special flag retreat honoring World War II veteran U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jake Larson. During World War II, he went through six battles, including storming Omaha Beach on D-Day and fighting in the Battle of the Bulge.
• Disney is honored to be recognized as one of the top 25 companies that hire veterans on the 2024 Military Times “Best for Vets” employers rankings. We continue to salute U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families in many ways across our company, and we thank them all for their selfless service.

Today, The Walt Disney Company announced the launch of its company-wide 2024 Disney Ultimate Toy Drive supporting the Marine Toys for Tots Program, which has helped deliver millions of toys to children in need during the holiday season. Good Morning America reported exclusively on the new campaign, highlighting three unsung heroes at Toys for Tots: Sergeant Christos Toromanides, GypC Serna, and Staff Sergeant Xavier Montaie.

Sgt. Toromanides, a local Toys for Tots Assistant Coordinator in Ohio, is a survivor of pediatric cancer who was gifted a toy from a Toys for Tots Marine during a hospital stay when he was 13 years old. Serna dedicates her time to supporting local children in need as her local chapter’s Coordinator in Texas and is the daughter of a World War II veteran who organized toy distributions in her community throughout her childhood. SSgt. Montaie has a full-circle story, as he now leads the local Ohio Toys for Tots chapter that once supported him in his childhood. All three volunteers spend their holidays giving back to their communities by volunteering for Toys for Tots.

As part of its efforts to raise awareness among fans and consumers, Disney is offering additional support to Toys for Tots with a new Disney-produced Public Service Announcement, “Dear Santa.” The PSA features a voiceover from Gina Rodriguez, a special appearance from a Marine, and one young girl’s journey to share the gift of happiness. It will play in rotation throughout the campaign on Disney’s television networks and streaming platforms including ABC, ABC Owned Television Stations, Disney+, Freeform, FX, Hulu, and National Geographic.

“We are proud to continue Walt’s legacy and give the gift of happiness to children and families in need this holiday season with our good friends at Toys for Tots,” said Lisa Haines, senior vice president, Corporate Social Responsibility, The Walt Disney Company. “This year’s Disney Ultimate Toy Drive promises to be one of the biggest yet as our employees, cast members, and fans across the country continue to serve our communities and bring them together with a little Disney magic.”

“Last year, Disney helped Toys for Tots achieve a record year delivering joy and the magic of the holidays to over 10 million children in need,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), president and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Sadly, the need is even greater this year. However, with the generous support from our friends at Disney, their Ultimate Toy Drive will once again propel needed support in communities throughout the U.S. allowing Toys for Tots to fulfill the holiday dreams of our country’s economically disadvantaged children who otherwise might be forgotten.”

How to Participate

Fans and families can join the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive by donating a toy online at DisneyStore.com/ToyDrive now through December 24, 2024, or by donating a new, unwrapped toy in person at a U.S. Disney Store location, the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort, or in select locations at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, now through December 13, 2024.

Toy collections will also take place at Cotino, the first Storyliving by Disney community in Rancho Mirage, California. Visitors to the Cotino Sales Studio can take part by dropping off a new, unwrapped toy during regular business hours.

Toy collections will also be hosted by the ABC Owned Television Stations in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Houston, San Francisco, Raleigh-Durham, and Fresno, and at in-person film screenings and events.

See the Campaign in Action

Shows across Disney networks including ESPN’s GetUp! and First Take, as well as ABC and ABC News programs including Good Morning America, The View, Tamron Hall, and Wheelof Fortune will feature Disney Ultimate Toy Drive and Toys for Tots stories to highlight the season of giving and the importance of supporting communities in need.

Disney Theatrical Group will encourage audience members to support the initiative by featuring a Disney Ultimate Toy Drive insert in Playbills for its Broadway productions.

The initiative will also include a never-been-done-before journey by Mickey Mouse later this holiday season to create even more moments of happiness for kids in need.

Additional donation opportunities and activations will be shared throughout the campaign.

Disney’s relationship with Toys for Tots dates back to the non-profit’s founding in 1947, when Walt Disney and his team of animators personally designed the original Toys for Tots train logo that is still used today. Since then, The Walt Disney Company continues to strengthen this relationship, engaging Disney VoluntEARS and providing charitable donations to help Toys for Tots deliver toys to children in need nationwide. Last year, the organization achieved a new record of children supported, with more than 25 million toys delivered to 10.3 million children, thanks in part to the collaboration with the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive.

20th Century Studios’ Alien: Romuluswritten and directed by Fede Alvarez and produced by Ridley Scott — and available to purchase at digital retailers this week — takes the sci-fi/horror-thriller franchise back to its roots with a new group of space colonizers coming face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. The film — which opened at the top of the box office — also reaches new territory in The Walt Disney Company’s efforts to create more sustainable productions, part of its commitment to environmental sustainability in all facets of the company. Led by Green Eyes Consultancy, the Alien: Romulus production crew used a dedicated sustainability department to reduce their environmental impact via the use of innovative set construction materials, recycling and composting programs, and advanced technologies to reduce fuel use and emissions. 

How Alien: Romulus demonstrated sustainable filmmaking

Recyclable Paper Board Sets

Alien: Romulus was the first tentpole feature film for the industry to utilize sets constructed from recycled cardboard case material. The product performs like a conventional wood set — it can be painted, machined, have a structurally sound and strong build. The best part? Unlike a traditional set, these can be recycled, meaning the materials that were once the set of Alien: Romuluswere recycled and then made into sets.

Renewable Energy

The production crew of Alien: Romulus worked with Origo Studios to procure 100% renewable energy for all electricity used in the filming process — a first for a Disney production using a leased studio. In addition, emissions were further reduced through electric vehicles, LED set lighting, and smart power management systems, leading to overall reduced emissions.   

Reducing Landfill Waste

Aiming to reduce waste going to landfills, the production crew prioritized waste sorting, which is the process of separating waste based on its materials and recyclability. The crew collected and diverted from landfill 1739 kg of selected waste — nearly 3,839 pounds.A weekly newsletter educated crew on the importance of waste sorting, leading to a significant decrease in the amount of waste sent to landfill and increase in recycling by minimizing contamination.

“This is the first film where I actually noticed [sustainability]. I’ve noticed people doing their part,” Tom Moran, Executive Producer, said. “It’s more challenging, but I would love to live up to that challenge.” The sustainability efforts on Alien: Romulus will have far-reaching results that will benefit future productions. Disney aims to ensure that all productions are created in an environmentally responsible manner to help make positive progress in addressing collective impacts. 

To learn more about Disney’s commitment to the environment, visit Disney Planet Possible.

Alien: Romulus is now available to purchase at digital retailers (Amazon, Apple, Fandango At Home). The film also arrives on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on December 3.