Every day, in every corner of the globe, teams from across The Walt Disney Company make a positive impact by creating and delivering quality entertainment. So it’s really no surprise that those same teams are inspired to get out and make a direct impact on their communities as Disney VoluntEARS.
We’ve shared a number of VoluntEARS efforts on the blog, and today we’re taking a trip to China and Hong Kong for some summer updates from the region!
A team of 46 VoluntEARS recently joined Habitat for Humanity to participate in a five-day house-building project in a rural part of China – Rongshui County in Guangxi. In addition to building houses, the team helped the village install a new drainage system, visited local schools and gave stationary and books to local children.
In Shanghai, VoluntEARS and their families teamed up with AmCham Shanghai and Horizon Corporate Volunteer Consultancy to bring joy to the elderly. The team spent the day creating perfume sachets, singing songs and performing dance numbers at a local community center.
Meanwhile in Hong Kong, Disney VoluntEARS had one of their busiest summers yet! Two of the most impactful events include the team’s largest hospital outreach ever and a special day at Hong Kong Disneyland for earthquake victims.
More than 50 VoluntEARS donated their time at four hospitals in one day. Prior to the big day, the team attended a Hospital Play Induction Course offered by local nonprofit, Playright Children’s Play Association. They used their newly acquired skills to bring happiness to young patients by creating and playing games. Disney VoluntEAR Roni Cheng shared, “I learned from the Playright training how powerful play can be. The hospital visit drives the point home, and the children’s laughter and liveliness make me smile whenever I think about the day!”
Finally, at Hong Kong Disneyland, Disney VoluntEARS and the resort’s ambassador, Arthur Lau, welcomed 200 students and teachers from the city of Ya’an, an area severely damaged by an earthquake this spring. Their visit is part of Disney’s ongoing support of the region. Back when the earthquake occurred, Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger announced a $1 million contribution for the rebuilding of schools. And since then, VoluntEARS have taken part in several events within the province.
Which of these VoluntEARS activities would you have participated in? Tell us in the comments below!