Empowering Families, Inspiring Hope: Give Kids the World's Journey to the True Inspiration Awards

Chick-fil-A's True Inspiration Awards have become a beacon of hope for nonprofit organizations making a profound impact on their communities. This year, Give Kids the World, a remarkable initiative that provides cost-free vacations for critically ill children and their families, has been selected as a finalist. As Chick-fil-A's founder, S. Truett Cathy, once said, "We should be about more than just selling chicken. We should be a part of our customers' lives and the communities in which we serve." This sentiment resonates deeply with the mission of Give Kids the World, and the opportunity to win the True Inspiration Award could further amplify their transformative work.

Empowering Families, Inspiring Hope

The Humble Beginnings of a Remarkable Journey

The story of Give Kids the World began in 1986 with a young girl named Amy, who had leukemia. Amy's wish was to visit Orlando's theme parks, and local hotelier Henri Landwirth gladly arranged a complimentary hotel stay for Amy and her family. Tragically, before the rest of the trip could be planned, Amy passed away. Landwirth, himself a survivor of the Holocaust, was deeply moved by Amy's story and determined to create a place where special families like hers could find respite and joy in their darkest moments.

A Sanctuary for Families in Need

Born in Belgium in 1927, Landwirth had experienced the harsh realities of war and separation during his own childhood. He understood the profound impact that a safe haven could have on families facing unimaginable challenges. With this vision in mind, Landwirth founded Give Kids the World, a resort that offers critically ill children and their families a week-long, cost-free vacation filled with magical experiences and cherished memories.

A Transformative Impact

For the past 38 years, Give Kids the World has welcomed more than 193,000 families from all 50 states and 77 countries to its 89-acre Kissimmee resort. These families are provided with transportation, accommodations, donated theme park tickets, all meals and snacks, nightly entertainment, daily gifts, and unique interactive experiences at the village. The opportunity to escape the confines of hospitals and doctors' offices and simply enjoy being together as a family is a priceless gift that Give Kids the World provides.

The True Inspiration Awards: A Chance to Amplify the Mission

Chick-fil-A's True Inspiration Awards program, created by the company's founder, S. Truett Cathy, provides grants to nonprofit organizations that are working to strengthen their communities. In 2024, Chick-fil-A has awarded 51 grants ranging between ,000 and 0,000, totaling .48 million, to organizations that exemplify the values of Caring for People, Caring for Others through Food, Caring for our Communities, or Caring for our Planet.

Voting for Give Kids the World

As a finalist in the True Inspiration Awards, Give Kids the World has the opportunity to receive a significant grant that would further their mission of providing unforgettable experiences for critically ill children and their families. To support this remarkable organization, Chick-fil-A customers can vote for Give Kids the World through the Chick-fil-A app before September 30th. By downloading the app, creating a Chick-fil-A One account, and selecting the True Inspiration Awards section, users can cast their vote and help Give Kids the World secure the funding they need to continue their transformative work.

A Legacy of Compassion and Hope

The story of Give Kids the World is a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and the human spirit. From its humble beginnings with a young girl's wish to the creation of a 89-acre resort that has touched the lives of thousands of families, Give Kids the World has become a beacon of hope for those facing the unimaginable. As they compete for the True Inspiration Award, the organization's legacy of empowering families and inspiring joy in the darkest of times continues to shine brightly, inspiring all who encounter it.