Disneyland seeks to reward Orange County student volunteers

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- Are you or someone you know a high school student doing good in the Orange County community?

Whether focused on helping their families, classmates or community causes - Orange County high school students are asked to nominate themselves for their good deeds and service. From tutoring younger students, to leading a food drive, to starting a recycling program or helping with a sick or elderly family member - Dreamers & Doers applicants make a positive impact in their community.

Beginning September 8, Orange County high school students can apply to become the first class of Dreamers & Doers, Disneyland Resort's newly announced philanthropy program aimed at recognizing exemplary high school students who take action to improve their community, home or school by conserving nature, inspiring others to be creative or live healthfully, and bringing hope and happiness to the community.

"Dreamers & Doers is deeply rooted in Disney's decades-long commitment to volunteerism and supporting youth and the community," said Jill Bolton, director of corporate citizenship at Disneyland Resort. "We are excited to continue this legacy during our 60th anniversary, rewarding local high school students who are making positive changes in their community and inspiring them to further their good work."

Students interested in applying to become a Dreamer & Doer this fall are encouraged to use summer break to get involved and make a difference, and even showcase how they are making an impact by submitting videos of their work in action. Select videos will then be part of a final video highlighting the program, which will be shown on the Disney Parks Blog and various other social media channels.

Video submissions should be no more than one to two minutes and include the statement "I Dream..." to describe what the student dreams the world could look like given the work they do in their community. For example, a student who serves by supporting a local food bank might say: "I dream that everyone will have access to the nutrition they need, so I collect food donations for my local food bank." Detailed instructions for submitting videos can be found at publicaffairs.disneyland.com/dreamers-and-doers-2/. Students should submit their videos by August 2.

Launching in celebration of Disneyland Resort's 60th anniversary, the new program will reward students in various ways including Disneyland Resort park tickets, hotel stays and funds for their schools.

Every high school in Orange County will have the opportunity to select one to two of their school's Dreamers & Doers applicants, who will receive two Disneyland Resort park-hopper tickets. From this group, 60 "Shining Stars" will be selected to receive a $1,000 grant for their school and be invited to attend a celebration luncheon where additional surprises will be announced, and six top-ranking students will be designated as "Luminaries" who receive a Disneyland Resort weekend prize package to enjoy with their families.

Disneyland Resort also will host a symposium for all "Shining Stars," providing an opportunity to discuss issues that affect students and create solutions they can implement in their schools and communities. For more information about the Disneyland Resort Dreamers & Doers program visit publicaffairs.disneyland.com/dreamers-and-doers-2/.