Give Kids The World Village has been honored as the Southeast Regional Winner of the Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards® program for 2025. This prestigious recognition includes a $200,000 grant from Chick-fil-A, Inc., which will significantly enhance the nonprofit’s mission to create happiness and inspire hope for children with critical illnesses and their families through life-changing, cost-free wish vacations.
Supporting a Legacy of Generosity
The Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards® program, established in 2015 to honor founder S. Truett Cathy’s legacy of giving, celebrates organizations making a profound impact in their communities. This year, Chick-fil-A has awarded a collective $6 million to 56 organizations across North America and the U.K. Give Kids The World Village’s selection highlights its alignment with Chick-fil-A’s corporate social responsibility pillars: Caring for People, Caring for Others Through Food, Caring for our Communities, and Caring for our Planet.
Transforming Lives with a Magical Mission
Located in Kissimmee, Florida, Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre nonprofit resort that has welcomed nearly 200,000 families from all 50 U.S. states and 77 countries since 1986. These families, each coping with the challenges of pediatric illness, are treated to weeklong, all-inclusive vacations featuring transportation, accommodations, meals, donated theme park tickets, nightly entertainment, and more. The Village’s accessible rides and attractions ensure that every child can experience the joy of play, regardless of physical limitations.
The Power of Partnership
“We are grateful beyond words to receive the True Inspiration Award from Chick-fil-A. This grant will have a profound impact on our ability to change the lives of countless families facing unimaginable challenges due to pediatric illness,” Jordan Lomas, Give Kids The World Interim CEO said. “Chick-fil-A Kissimmee, owned and operated by Renato Nascimento, has been a great friend to the Village and with Chick-fil-A’s support, we look forward to continuing to deliver joy and hope to those who need it most.”
Excellence Recognized
Give Kids The World Village’s commitment to excellence has earned it Charity Navigator’s highest rating for 18 consecutive years, a distinction achieved by less than 1% of U.S. charities. An impressive 92.7 cents of every dollar raised directly supports its programs and services, ensuring donor contributions have maximum impact.
About Give Kids The World Village
With its whimsical atmosphere and unparalleled dedication to bringing smiles to children and families, Give Kids The World Village is a beacon of hope. For children facing life-threatening illnesses, these magical experiences provide a much-needed respite from medical treatments and hospital stays, offering families the opportunity to laugh, play, and create lasting memories.
To learn more about Give Kids The World Village and how you can support its mission, visit www.gktw.org.
This award not only highlights the incredible work of Give Kids The World Village but also serves as a testament to the power of partnership and community support in making dreams come true for families in need.