Wanda Curtis, The Family Property Manager and Rich Mergo, the Director of Development for the Sunshine Foundation.
The Sunshine Foundations focus is to answer dreams wished by chronically ill, seriously ill, physically challenged and abused children whose families are financially unable to make that dream come true. Bill Sample was a Philadelphia police officer who was assigned to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children where he met sick children and their families, and this is where he saw the true struggle. It was in 1976 when Sample founded The Sunshine Foundation after obtaining a personal loan and gathering a few friends who wanted to help.
Sample worked hard to make a difference in these families’ lives and still maintained his job in the police force. In 1983, he retired and dedicated all of his efforts to the Sunshine Foundation.
The Sunshine Foundation has grown enormously since it was started into a 22 square acre Dream Village just 15 minutes from Disney’s Maingates. In this village, children and their families can relax in one of the many cottages that are decorated in various themes such as Space Ships, Legoland cottage, and fairytales. Along with relaxation, the dreamers can enjoy a fully handicapped playground, pool and miniature golf. This Dream Village allows the kids to enjoy every day activities that all kids can do without feeling different.
Here at Bardell Real Estate, we support those who reach out to families who are in need, as we reach out as much as we can as well. There are over 100 children located in the US who are waiting for their special dream to come true. Contact The Sunshine Foundation today for information on how you can help!
“Not all children are able to run and play and enjoy life. Many are innocent victims of birth defects, accidents and deadly diseases. Shouldn’t each child know that somebody cares enough to see his or her dream come true?” – Bill Sample