The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.

We are all familiar with this verse from Clement Moore’s The Night Before Christmas. In many ways Christmas is synonymous with children and that is why I have chosen to shine the non-profit spotlight on the Children’s Dream Fund for this holiday month of good-will and cheer.

The organization was founded in 1981 with the single purpose of fulfilling dreams for children ages 3-18 who have been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, and who live in West Central Florida.

Dreams referrals are made by doctors, nurses, Child Life and Social Workers, friends, families and other patients. They vary as much as the personalities of the children served and may involve meeting a celebrity, a trip, or a gift such as a computer or playground, or the most-requested dream, a week at the Give Kids the World Village, which enables a child to visit all of the Disney-area theme parks. (No dream has been refused, except those involving motorized vehicles and firearms.)

The Children’s Dream Fund is not affiliated with a national organization. Since its inception in 1981, the Fund has made dreams come true for over 2,000 children. If you are would like more information about this organization or if you are interested in volunteer opportunities or making a donation, contact them at: info@childrensdreamfund.org or call 727-896-6390.