The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim has awarded $1 million in grants for workforce development this year, continuing its commitment to the local community. These funds support 10 organizations in Orange County that offer programs for career preparation and professional advancement. For 70 years, the park has not only brought joy to visitors but also strengthened the region through initiatives that prepare students and residents for future success.
Community Engagement
The resort annually awards grants to local school districts and nonprofit organizations that positively impact the future. Since 2017, the
Disneyland Resort has provided more than $7.8 million in financial support. In addition, Disney VoluntEARS have contributed over 4,000 hours of volunteer work to build the workforce of tomorrow. From Girls Inc. to My Day Counts and others, the 10 recipient organizations in Orange County can continue important programs.
Support for Girls Inc. of Orange County
The Disneyland Resort has supported Girls Inc. of Orange County for years, empowering girls in Anaheim through professional development and educational programs. In the “Girls Meet the Workforce” program, high school girls gain experience through professional mentoring with resort executives. The grant helps positively change the lives of girls in Orange County and beyond. Mayra Martin, senior manager of corporate engagement for Girls Inc. of Orange County, emphasized the importance of this support. By providing high school girls with real work experience, mentoring, and the confidence to lead, the organization shapes the future workforce. The partnership with the Disneyland Resort is transformative and promising for the future.
Collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters
Through collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire’s Workplace Mentoring Program, Disneyland Resort cast members make a difference in the lives of Anaheim students. During high school, students have mentors who guide and encourage them through monthly meetings, professional development opportunities, and more. Jennifer Santillan, a Disneyland Resort cast member and mentor, described the most rewarding part as knowing she makes a difference in her mentee’s life and helps shape who she wants to become. The resort is honored to continue the collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters to form lifelong mentoring relationships. Sloane Keane, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire, highlighted that the resort is a long-standing partner that invests in Anaheim’s future and promotes economic mobility for youth. With this investment, they build a local talent pipeline through career exploration, mentoring, and leadership development.
Partnership with Orange County United Way
The Disneyland Resort and Orange County United Way work together to bring happiness to the community and make dreams come true for students, young adults, and families in Anaheim and Orange County. With a shared mission to empower and inspire residents, the resort has worked alongside the organization for many years, from mock interviews to presentations on business etiquette with cast members. Through this year’s grant, the resort continues to support individuals in the community and inspire them to dream big. Sergio Contreras, executive director of United for Student Success at Orange County United Way, explained that the support ensures students from Anaheim, Savanna, and Magnolia high schools graduate and are ready for life after high school, including college and careers. The grant strengthens school partnerships and expands students’ horizons through new opportunities.
Inclusivity with My Day Counts
Inclusivity is a priority at the Disneyland Resort to ensure all visitors feel welcome. This principle extends to the community, where the resort invests alongside My Day Counts in programs for people with disabilities as they enter adulthood and navigate the workforce. My Day Counts prepares participants with personal and professional skills and connects them with independence. Ivis Mayorga, a program participant, shared that My Day Counts gave her the support to earn her high school diploma and the confidence to keep going, even when challenging. The resort continues its support for My Day Counts with a grant for the Workforce Development Initiative, which prepares adults with disabilities by building professional skills and providing valuable experiences for future careers. Mike Galliano, CEO and president of My Day Counts, emphasized that the partnership supports the initiative, which prepares adults with disabilities for workforce success and allows them to compete alongside non-disabled peers. The initiative offers training, mentoring, and real experience to build the skills, confidence, and independence that employers seek. Together, they level the playing field and create a more inclusive community.
