The Dream Factory is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization devoted to granting the dreams of critically and chronically ill children aged 3 through 18. Founded in 1980 in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, it has since become the second largest wish-granting organization in the United States with over 30 chapters. Our local chapters are run entirely by over 5,000 dedicated volunteers who have helped fulfill the dreams of more than 25,000 children since 1980.
The Dream Factory differs from other wish-granting organizations in three distinct ways:
In order for a child to receive a dream, he or she must meet the following criteria:
The dream must be the child's own and not that of a parent, guardian or other concerned party. The child must be able to communicate that dream to a Dream Factory representative.
Dedication - We will do everything in our power to create a positive, memorable experience for our dream recipients and their families.
Responsibility - We are committed to being an ethical, fiscally and socially responsible all-volunteer organization.
Empathy - We place the medical and personal needs of our dream children and their families above all else.
Attention - We are attentive to the desires of our dream children, their families, our volunteers and donors.
Misson-Driven - We will fulfill our mission of granting dreams for critically and chronically ill children and are committed to working as a team and with mutual respect.
Having a dream come true for a seriously ill child provides hope and inspiration for the difficult and uncertain days and years that may lie ahead.
That's why, once a child is granted a dream by The Dream Factory, our local chapters plan special events throughout the year that our dream kids can attend.
Some of these events include trips to major sporting events and theme parks, concerts, Christmas parties and other celebrations.
We can do all this because so many wonderful people help us. They do this because sometimes the best medicine for a sick child is having both big dreams and little ones come true.
Reserve your spot for the 2011 Dream Factory Poker tournament. There are limited seats available, and we are expecting another sell out.
The first tournament in 2009 was a success, with 88 players raising about $12,000 through donations and a live auction. The following year, the tournament took off with over 250 players raising close to $50,000, which was able to sponsor roughly 13 dreams for the kids. This year's event will be the 3rd annual and we hope to continue to get more and more people in Columbia involved in this great event to raise awareness and money for this wonderful cause.
The Dream Factory is a volunteer based organization who grants dream vacations to critically and chronically ill children ages 3-18.
