Kid's World in Kissimmee

Kid's World in Kissimmee is an amazing place. It's a foundation started by one man, originally a poor immigrant to the United States who experienced the American dream by actually becoming a very rich man. He wanted to give something back to his adopted country and decided to create a place where terminally ill children and their families (from anywhere in the world) could spend 4 days at no expense and see all the Disney theme parks in Orlando.

Sometimes the families are very large, including grandparents or aunts and uncles...whoever lives in the same house as the special child. Their plane fare (or however they choose to make the trip) is paid for and they are given a fully equipped townhouse in the "Kid's World" complex. Cafeteria meals are provided free of charge or they can choose to eat at home. Inside the grounds is an assortment of carnival type rides, miniature golf, game rooms, computer rooms, pool, and even a movie theatre. Every morning Disney sends about a half dozen of their employees, dressed in character, to wander the park and play with the children. I prefer working in the Ice Cream Parlor where the guests can come in for hotdogs, sandwiches, or ice cream concoctions most any time of the day or evening...all free, of course. Free admission and transportation is provided to all the Disney parks.

Kid's World couldn't exist without the huge numbers of volunteers who happily offer their time and abilities to give the families the most wonderful experience of their lives. Many of the volunteers are seniors who still have so much to offer. I've also seen large groups of teens who came from as far away as Japan just to volunteer a week or two at this magical place.

I've seen some sad sights over the years but, above all, I've seen wonder and joy in the eyes of very sick children who are able to forget their illness for a while and just enjoy themselves. In my eyes, the parents are the true heroes because they manage to hold themselves together in order to make each day they have with their child a positive one.

The brothers and sisters of a terminally ill child often have to take a back seat in the family because the sick one needs the attention much more. At Kid's World, the siblings are also able to enjoy their vacation. Volunteer babysitters give the parents a night out on their own, too.

Seniors, who are still healthy and active, are valuable assets at Kid's World. The management treats us with respect and the families love us. When it comes right down to it, being allowed to volunteer there is a reward in itself.

Just a note...any donations to Kid's World would be welcome.