DREAM FOUNDATION SPRING 2011 NEWSLETTER
Because a dream can transcend a lifetime
Our Mission
The mission of Dream Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and their families who are battling a life-threatening illness.
IN THIS ISSUE Founder Message Soul Food Best of Facebook In Memory Dreams Come True In the Media Above & Beyond Events Culture of Compassion The Dream Backer Notes from the Heart Planned Giving Programs
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cover photo: Awash in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, Kelli and her family pause for reflection during their time together in California. See story on page 4. Kelli’s photos courtesy of Lisa Field-Elliot.
www.dreamfoundation.org
A MESSAGE From The Founder Ahhh, color... In years past, we have printed our newsletters in black and white due to necessary consideration as it relates to cost. Yet, the stories inside resonate with the need to shine in all the beautiful hues and shades that comprise a dream. Like the photograph on our cover...the tranquil blues and greens of the ocean, the pure white reflected light, the warm citrus tones signaling a setting sun... these colors will be forever etched in the memories formed during Kelli’s dream, and, therefore should be honored and shared. Every day, we are privileged to bring color into the lives of those often surrounded in darkness. These men and women color our lives in return. Their stories are truly emblazed in our hearts. As noted on page 12, some dreams are manifested in the simplest of ways...a water heater, a wheelchair ramp, a hearing aid battery. Because of the urgency of these dreams, and the lack of resources typically available to the dreamer, we often don’t receive beautiful color photos to share with you. Still these dreams represent a critical need -- and they comprise nearly 40% of the dreams we fulfill. Special thanks to V3 Printing for allowing us to upgrade to color with minimal cost, which is essential. We pride ourselves on our track record of fiscal responsibility, always considering ways to minimize overhead. In fact, we’ve debated whether to continue with this newsletter at all, due to its associated resource requirements. But, to us, these pictures and words are more than just a newsletter. They are both the conveyance of what we encounter every day, and the product of your compassion and generosity. As someone who contributes to giving toward these final wishes, we hope these stories bring you pride and joy. May your summer be filled with colorful memories, just like the ones you have gifted to our dreamers.
Board of Directors Ronald R. Macleod, Chairperson Carpinteria, CA Senior Vice President, Rockefeller Financial David Glickman, Vice Chairperson Beverly Hills, CA President & Managing Director, Glickman Capital Thomas Rollerson, President Santa Barbara, CA Founder/President, Dream Foundation Kirsten Cavendish Santa Barbara, CA Brainstorm Creative, Inc. Richard Burnham Mansfield, TX Co-Founder Odyssey HealthCare, Chairman Greg Grabowski Rochester Hills, MI President & CEO Leader Dogs for the Blind Hollye Harrington Jacobs, RN, MS, MSW Santa Barbara, CA David Johnson Los Angeles, CA Act 4 Entertainment Bob Murphy Santa Barbara, CA Founding Partner, Roberts Investment Capital, LLC, A.J. Rice Montecito, CA Co-Founder, Software.com Kenneth P. Slaught Santa Barbara, CA President, Investec, Inc. Richard Weston-Smith Santa Barbara, CA CEO, Brainstorm Creative Diana Wilson Santa Barbara, CA CEO, DMW Consulting
From the heart,
Staff Thomas Rollerson, Founder/President
Thomas Founder/President
Carol Brown, Chief Operating Officer Valerie Banks, Flower Empower Coordinator
P.S. As always, we have included an envelope. It’s up to you how you’d like to fill it. Five dollars. Airline miles. A little feedback on ways we can improve. As long as it’s from the heart, it will be cherished.
Stefani Canin Mullen, Part-time Development Associate Trish Cantillon, Part-time Development Associate Cindy Hellriegel, Finance Manager Adam Lichtenstein, Internet Technologies Manager
“In earning Charity Navigator’s four star rating Dream Foundation has demonstrated exceptional financial health, outperforming most of its peers in its efforts to manage and grow its finances in the most fiscally responsible way possible.”
Dream Foundation received the Independent Charities of America (ICA) Seal of Excellence. The award goes to charities that have, upon rigorous independent review, been able to certify, document, and demonstrate on an annual basis that they meet the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectiveness. It is estimated that fewer than five percent of charities reviewed meet or exceed these standards.
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Erinn Lynch, Director of Communications Michelle Mullaney, Events Manager Emily Mullranin, In-kind Resources Manager Nani Oesterle, Part-time Grant Writer Sonia Salazar, Data Entry Manager Barbara Schoch, Dream Program Manager Jackie Waddill, Donor Relations Manager
SOULFOOD
A PLACE WHERE DREAMS HAPPEN Two families find comfort in the solace of one home
The splendor of an oceanfront home... where sunshine and breeze resonate in the day, and soft candlelight permeates the night... waves slurp gently against the sand, and seagulls swirl and call overhead... is peace and serenity defined. It is a place where dreams happen. The walls of this home have embraced and comforted many dreamers over the years, including two young mothers – strangers, but for their shared experience – who simply desire time with their families by the sea. Kelli, 46, of Louisville, Ohio is a single mom to three cherished sons: one in college, a high school senior, and an eighth-grader. Her boys are settling into their skin, becoming young men, experiencing the joys and challenges of growing up, and preparing to leave their mark on the world. This time for them should be carefree, full of exploration and self-discovery; there is nothing more Kelli would desire. However, Kelli is battling stage four breast cancer, and has undergone so many appointments, scans and treatments during the last two years she feels her boys have grown up fast and spent their formative years caring for her, in a role reversal she never foresaw. Faced with limited time and resources, Kelli contacted Dream Foundation. Seeking a special way to make lasting memories with her children, and dreaming of the ocean in springtime, Kelli knew a rejuvenating trip to the coast would be ideal. She says, “I want it to be a trip, that if only for a few days, their thoughts are on the beauty around them and not on their mom’s illness.” Thanks to donated Continental Airlines miles, longtime supporters, Debbie and Dan Kass – who offered the cozy but delectable oceanfront home - and a multitude of others who gave special items to enhance the experience, Kelli’s time away with her sons exceeded her wildest dreams. “To wake up every morning and look out over the Pacific Ocean was so therapeutic for me. To watch my children have the time of their lives... surfing alongside a baby seal, playing games at night at the dinner table, or just relaxing by the outdoor fireplace or in the hot tub made my heart swell with such joy and happiness,” she says. It was – undeniably – a dream come true.
(Continued on page 4)
Kelli poses with her sons and ex-husband,who is also her best friend and caregiver.
Solace by the sea
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SOULFOOD continued from page 3
Zoh and her husband share a special moment together. Photos courtesy: Baron Spafford
The same can be said for Zoh, 43, of Midway, Kentucky, also battling breast cancer. She, her husband and their two young children would be the happiest family in the world if it weren’t for the illness that rules their lives. The beach vacation Zoh dreams of would be her family’s first. Just like Kelli and countless others, her one hope is to make memories with her family they will cherish when she’s gone. With donated Delta Airlines miles, Zoh and her family came to the coast, where they found the beloved beach house open and ready, stocked with Hasbro toys and games for the kids, and abounding with magnificent food, gift certificates, zoo and Disney tickets, a professional portrait session, and more. This sweet family absorbed every grain of sand and flicker of light, watched entranced as each wave crashed, and witnessed the changing colors of a California sunset, unlike anything they’d ever seen before. Zoh enjoys the warmth of the setting sun.
“The dream has shifted everything,” Zoh says. “We are all so soft and easy with each other. I would never have imagined being so well again, as a woman, a wife, a mother – a family. Our smiles are sudden and full. Our giggles are soft and tender. We are whole in a way we couldn’t have been without a dream... I’ve come to a new place in my heart, as ‘comfortable’ has become the low end of the scale and ‘wonderful’ has replaced it.”
HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Forty-one-year-old single mother, Rosalia, lives with her six children in a small, one-bedroom apartment in Sylmar, California. Just weeks after her youngest was born, she learned she had cervical cancer... and it is spreading. Rosalia, who came to this country from Guatemala as a child, says life has always been hard. Now, she worries about what will happen to her kids when she’s gone. This sweet family has very little – and an uncertain future – but maintain tremendous love for one another. “I’ve had my difficulties throughout my life, but [my] children ...mean everything to me, and together we take care of each other,” Rosalia says. “I don’t know what I would do without them.” Her prognosis all too real, Rosalia contacted Dream Foundation with the simple request of furniture for her home. Having recently lost her couch to roach infestation, all her family has is a single chair and two beds. A couch, coffee table, kitchen table and chairs would make this mother’s dream come true. She says, “The furniture would make the apartment feel like a home.”
Rosalia sits on her new furniture with her children, family members, and her amazing Dream Hosts.
Thanks to KSL Resorts and Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa, who supplied most of the lovely furniture, Dream Foundation rallied, and in a flurry of activity that felt like Christmas morning, deliverymen brought and arranged everything. Dream Host, John Beno, of Salvatore Ferragamo’s Canoga Park store, extended boxes of Hasbro toys to the children, and a look of gratitude tinged with disbelief spread across their mother’s face. Rosalia was in tears at her dream come true.
Dream volunteers unload donated furniture.
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BEST of
Technology can bring us closer together. Dream Foundation so enjoys staying in touch with our supporters, dreamers, and dream families through our social networks. Be a part of our online community! MaryKaye “There are not enough words to express our gratitude to Dream Foundation, the Cleveland Browns, our friends and families and the countless people we don’t know who supported us on this journey... It was a surreal weekend filled with endless memories and good times.” Emma “I received your letter about how my donation helped a man meet his daughter and grandsons. The joy I felt inside was indescribable. This is truly an INCREDIBLE foundation... You people are miracle workers.”
people like this
Lenke “Thank you, Dream Foundation, for making my mother’s wishes come true last week. She wanted to see another sunset on the ocean...and you made it happen!”
Join them and you can like us too! www.facebook.com/ dreamfoundation
Shawn “Thank you to Dream Foundation for reuniting me with my father! It was a wonderful trip and a fabulous connection we all appreciated more than mere words could state.”
7,943
Nicole “Our mother passed away just two days after we returned home from her dream trip to Disney World. We are so grateful for the time we had, and great memories we will cherish from the trip. It meant the world to her that she could see her grandchildren and her children enjoy Disney World.”
You can find us on www.twitter.com/ dreamfound
Watch our latest dream video on YouTube! www.youtube.com/ thedreamfoundation
Cheryl “Thank you, Dream Foundation, for giving hope during some pretty tough times!” Tricia “Our family has been staying at the Cottages Program at Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara while our mom recovers, and we wanted to say thank you for the beautiful flowers you deliver daily!” Grace “When I lost my mom to cancer she was surrounded by her family. I can’t imagine being so far from a terminally ill loved one and not being able to afford to visit them. No one should die alone. I’d like to donate these miles to someone who can’t otherwise afford a flight. I do so in memory of my mom.” Karen “My dad’s wish was for me to spend time with him and my mom. With the price of airline tickets I was unable to do that. Thank you so much for making it possible for me to spend the week with him and take him to the pool.”
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In MEMORIUM
Jan.1, 2011 – Apr. 30, 2011
Dream Foundation celebrates the lives of our dreamers and their final wishes. Dorothy, 89 - To have her story, “88 and Counting,” printed Sergio, 42 - To attend a Los Angeles Lakers game and meet Kobe Bryant Karen, 46 - To take a trip to Disney World Vickie, 48 - To have a slumber party with her girlfriends at the Hilton Columbus Easton Kristina, 43 - To take a family trip to New York City and see a musical Richard, 41 - To receive travel expenses from Idaho to Florida Diane Marie, 54 - To have a honeymoon in Vegas Marlon, 38 - To stay in a hotel suite Josephine, 100 - To have flowers delivered in honor of her 100th birthday Danny, 68 - To take a NASA tour, witness the space shuttle launch, and meet astronaut Bruce Melnick James, 71 - To have his daughter visit him one last time John, 61 - To attend a wedding and family reunion in Alaska Noelle, 30 - To meet Lady Gaga Helen, 94 - To enjoy a day of pampering Amy, 43 - To have a documentary and screening of her life’s story Jerry, 75 - To have his daughter visit from Michigan Frank, 94 - To see the USS Missouri in Hawaii Ed, 66 - To go to the beach, and have dinner and photos taken with his family Sharon, 57 - To meet Ellen Degeneres Margie, 82 - To meet Vince Gill Karen, 45 - To visit her brother and her parents’ grave in Maryland Laura, 49 - To have her book published Timothy, 69 - To receive a powered wheelchair Nathan, 35 - To receive personalized Tony Stewart memorabilia Brenda, 19 - To have a family makeover David, 57 - To receive Beatles LOVE merchandise Loretta, 43 - To take a family vacation to a beach resort Barbara, 62 - To receive a laptop computer John, 77 - To visit his daughter and grandchildren in Florida
In loving memory of our beloved friend and Dream Ambassador, Noelle Valladares, whose zest for life and positive outlook in the face of adversity will forever inspire us all. “I made it my quest to smile through the pain and keep a positive attitude,” she said. “I feel that Leukemia has given me a gift because I recognize how precious life is.” Rosalia, 41 - To receive furniture for her home Johnna, 33 - To spend the holidays at home in Hawaii Heidi Ann, 35 - To take a family trip to Disneyland Dennis , AGE - To take a driving trip to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania Kristine Lynne, 61 - To meet Stevie Nicks Paul, 55 - To get a hearing aid Bill, 52 - To take a trip to Silver Dollar City Richard, 54 - To get a VIP pass to the Talladega Superspeedway Raymond, 95 - To have his dentures repaired Diana, 62 - To take a trip to Virginia Beach Sara, 56 - To have her daughter visit Joshua, 24 - To receive a laptop computer Scott, 42 - To have a band come for a jam session at his home Kathy, 53 - To have a friend from California attend her wedding in Oklahoma Muriel, 71 - To receive a phone call from George Strait William, 88 - To take a photograph with Arnold Palmer Herman, 66 - To take a trip to Las Vegas Michael, 31 - To take a trip to Sea World in San Antonio Stephanie, 52 - To vacation in St. Augustine, Florida Jeffrey, 44 - To take a family trip to Disney World Emma, 62 - To take a trip to Michigan and stay in a log cabin Mary, 56 - To see her sister’s performance on video Randall, 49 - To receive an autographed Wisconsin Badgers football jersey David, 68 - To take a family trip to Disneyland Gail, 51 - To receive assistance hiring a moving company Nicole, 37 - To purchase a Polaris Youth Ranger RZR 170 Ricardo, 48 - To have his brother visit from Mexico Michelle, 58 - To have her daughter and grandchildren visit Hildegard, 81 - To have a catered dinner for eight at home Anita, 59 - To take a trip to Hawaii Teresa, 47 - To have a professional video of her life story Maria, 74 - To receive a visit from her brother and nieces Michele, 43 - To go to Disney World Alma ,85 - To visit her sister Foster, 75 - To receive an outside ramp for improved mobility Annette, 68 - To take a trip to Roger Williams Park Zoo Shelaine, 19 - To take a family trip to the beach Jeffrey, 27 - To enjoy a honeymoon in Hawaii
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Christina, 25 - To attend the Oprah Winfrey Show Gene, 61 - To receive a powered wheelchair Jessica, 20 - To receive assistance paying rent Leanna, 20 - To meet R&B singer, Usher Sharon, 55 - To get a lift chair Donna, 67 - To take a trip to Key West, Florida Kristi, 37 - To receive a visit from her brother and his family Mary, 86 - To receive a wheelchair ramp Roger, 84 - To receive a visit from his daughter Morris, 29 - To get assistance with his wedding Jerry, 48 - To take a trip to Disney World Irene, 78 - To enjoy a day of Christmas shopping Willine, 97 - To receive an EyeTech Low Vision machine Leonard, 67 - To receive a visit from his stepdaughter and grandson Lud, 31 - To take a weekend trip to Disneyland Ruby, 85 - To create a book with her poems Dale, 54 - To visit family in Santa Fe, Texas Gaille, 50 - To take a road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway Jarrad, 34 - To stay at a beach house Shelly, 58 - To have her daughter, son-in-law and grandson visit Jason, 35 - To visit attractions in Orlando Connie, 55 - To have her son and daughter visit Beatrice, 79 - To receive a lift chair Wayne, 51 - To receive a flat screen television Mary, 53 - To have family members visit from Mississippi Pamela, 54 - To take a Disney World vacation Kathy, 64 - To take a trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee Connie, 56 - To have her friend from New Mexico visit Diane, 65 - To have a cable box installed and assistance paying for cable
Dream Foundation honors Stephen John Redding, whose generosity and compassion paved the way for hundreds of dreams. Not only did he give, he inspired others to give. A loyal husband and father, Stephen was a man to be admired. He felt love deeply with a big heart, saying, “Love is not something you find, make, lose, give or take. It’s a faculty that you have - when you exercise it, you have it.” William, 53 - To honeymoon in San Antonio, Texas Brenda Faye, 58 - To see the ocean in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Grace, 89 - To have her granddaughter visit Johnny, 50 - To have his book published Brooks, 55 - To meet Eric Clapton Tonette, 40 - To have a visit from her son and daughter Michael, 57 - To meet Dan Marino Harold, 54 - To take a trip to Tucson, Arizona Sallie, 51 - To take a family trip to Disney World Jeffery, 48 - To take a family trip to Las Vegas Luis, 52 - To have dinner with relatives coming from Mexico Antoni, 87 - To receive a visit from his granddaughter Glenn, 57 - To return home to Cleveland, Ohio Michael, 56 - To receive assistance moving his belongings to New Hampshire Mamie, 70 - To get a lift recliner chair Jack, 60 - To receive a Nintendo DS and games Susie, 93 - To get hearing aids Ghada, 57 - To receive a MacBook Pro Maria, 68 - To have a family portrait taken Michael, 58 - To attend the Daytona 500 Juan, 38 - To get some bathroom modifications Stacy, 44 - To take a family vacation to Florida Robert, 63 - To have his son, daughter-in-law and grandson visit Paul, 55 - To have dinner and see the Bill Cosby Show Kim, 59 - To have a visit from her children Roceli, 64 - To take a one-way trip to the Philippines Max, 52 - To take a trip to the coast Floyd, 73 - To have a lift chair John, 21 - To have a family reunion Ivy, 40 - To have a family pet Dulcineia, 57 - To take a trip to California Lee, 66 - To have his son visit, and have a party Marty, 45 - To have a visit from his three children Sarah, 58 - To have a visit from her fiancé Julius, 53 - To honeymoon in Gatlinburg, Tennessee Kristen, 31 - To have a visit from her husband Elinor, 76 - To have a visit from her son
DREAMS Come True HONORING A CAREGIVER Santa Fe, New Mexico resident Evelyn, 78, has battled breast cancer since 2004. After a mastectomy, surgeries and chemotherapy left her too ill to continue such treatment, she sought the care of Odyssey Hospice, and learned of Dream Foundation. Instantly, she knew she could dream of nothing more than dinner with Morgan Freeman. A devoted mother, published poet, and former hospice worker, Evelyn admits her life has been full, “but to dine with this wonderful man would be an important and rewarding event, beyond what I could describe,” she says. “To share such a time while I can with someone as accomplished and giving as Morgan Freeman would indeed be the enriching dream of a lifetime.” With the help of our friends, Dream Foundation contacted Mr. Freeman, who invited Evelyn, her daughters and son-in-law for dinner at the Malibu home of his co-producer, Lori McCreary. Thanks to the kindness of Jairo Torres at Hotel Erwin in Venice Beach, Evelyn and her family completed their dream trip to Los Angeles with a beautiful three-night stay overlooking the famous boardwalk. “My experience as a recipient of Dream Foundation brought me far beyond my dream,” Evelyn says. “Conversation and laughter flowed as though we were family. I’ve never felt more unconditional love and respect.”
Evelyn and Morgan Freeman spend special time together. Photo by Renie Haiduk
A TAPESTRY OF LOVE Ninety-four-year-old hospice patient, Bill, of Santa Barbara, California, has been declining for some time. Often quiet and slumped forward in his wheelchair, his spirit awoke one night at dinner when the topic of weaving arose. Unbeknownst to his friends and caregivers, Bill had a history in the trade, having worked for a famous weaver during his 20s. The glint in his eye that formed as he sat up tall and talked about his past became the birth of his dream.
Bill enjoys the textures of his beautiful yarn as he sits with Dream supporter, Sara Lytle.
Bill’s homemade weaving board, created by Dream supporters, the Darling family.
Certain how Bill’s quality of life could pointedly improve, his caregiver called Dream Foundation and relayed his final wish: to once again experience the rich colors and textures he used to love so much. Thanks to our friends, including Jennifer Darling and her children, and Sara Lytle, who so selflessly gave of their talents and time, Bill’s dream came true in just days. He was gifted a beautiful, handmade weaving board, adorned with seashells and his name, and a large basket of handspun wools and yarns. Bill found tremendous peace simply running his fingers through the soft threads. The weaving board then hung in Bill’s room, right at eye level. It became something beautiful for him to see and feel, and also a way for his visitors to leave their personal touch. Whether they’d weave a few rows or simply tie intricate sets of knots with the yarn, Bill’s loved ones made a masterpiece, which then became a keepsake for his daughter.
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DREAMS Come True continued THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME
Thirty-six-year-old Scott, of Sartell, Minnesota, suffers from a brain tumor and has experienced tumultuous effects from chemotherapy, radiation and anesthesia. Having thought all along his headaches were migraines, Scott’s life took an unthinkable turn when doctors proclaimed a cancer diagnosis just six months after he began dating Jenn, now his loving wife. Jenn and their two darling daughters, Brooke (7) and Chloe (3), are the light of Scott’s life and his daily inspiration. Never does he question or complain about his illness. “I don’t understand where he draws his strength from,” Jenn says, “but he is truly an amazing man.” Together with Genentech Dream Hosts and Hasbro toys, Dream Foundation coordinated a once-in-a-lifetime Walt Disney World holiday for Scott and his family, complete with toys, princess dresses and a special character breakfast just for his little girls.
Scott and his family at the happiest place on earth
For one magical snippet of time, this young family rode rides, frolicked along the Disney streets, and posed with Mickey and Minnie, all the while smiling ear to ear. It was the unforgettable – and otherwise unattainable – opportunity for Scott and Jenn to pause, relax and unwind... and witness the wonder on their daughters’ faces, together.
SOLACE ON THE SLOPES Before she got sick, Klaudia, 38, of San Marcos, California, had been a professional alpine ski racer. Now, she struggles with an autoimmune, inflammatory disorder that has depleted her strength and muscle control. She is no more at home than she is on her beloved skis. “Skiing is my identity,” Klaudia says. “It is my ultimate freedom, passion and love.” Mounting medical bills and various treatments prevented Klaudia from getting to her beloved mountains. It was no wonder, then, that Klaudia contacted Dream Foundation with a passionate plea for one, final ski getaway to her favorite place on earth: Durango, Colorado. There, she could exchange the confines of her condition for an action-packed adventure, cinch up her adaptive skis, and tear down the mountain. Klaudia relished every moment of her dream trip! She and Julie, her dearest friend and caregiver, landed in Durango giddy head-to-toe. In a special mountaintop reunion, Klaudia’s old ski buddies embraced her and welcomed her “home.” Then they watched her zip through the snow, as she did when she was well. “Before this trip my light within was flickering, and now it is shining bright and strong,” Klaudia says. “The trip put the spark back in my soul and has made me eager to stay in the fight with this crazy disease taking over my body...I skied my heart out!” Time with a best friend - away from illness - is a dream unto itself.
With her adaptive skis, Klaudia is able to hit the slopes again.
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DREAMS Come True continued THE “LAST SUPPER”
Hildegard, 81, of Santa Barbara, California, has end stage COPD. A very charming and generous lady who is blessed with wonderful support, Hilde’s only dream is to give back to those she loves. She envisions a catered meal at her home, lovingly served to an intimate number of family and friends; it would be Hilde’s thanks to them for taking care of her. What began as this selfless, humble desire became nothing short of an exquisite dinner party, complete with menus, place cards and ambient music, gorgeous flowers, sumptuous wine and decadent food, including dishes reminiscent of Hilde’s upbringing in Europe. Special thanks to Hospice of Santa Barbara and professional chefs, Peter Wood and Jason Banks, who donated their time and culinary expertise, the entire night was an homage to Hilde’s German/Austrian roots, and she smiled – and was at peace – the whole time. For days thereafter, Hilde continued to radiate with happiness at her chance to have hosted the “Last Supper,” as she called it. Even her beloved grandson was able to attend, coming all the way from New York. Only once all night did Hilde take a moment and step away from her guests; it was to pose for this portrait alongside an image of her younger self, a beautiful depiction of the fullness of life.
Hildegard poses with her favorite photo.
UNDER THE HAWAIIAN SKY Rodney, 54, of Oak Harbor, Washington, is losing his battle with pancreatic cancer... and he’s only been sick one month. Before it was even detected, his cancer reached stage four and spread to his liver. Rod underwent an aggressive course of double chemotherapy, which produced devastating effects, and caused him to reevaluate his longtime dream of visiting Hawaii with his wife to renew their wedding vows for their 30th anniversary. Unsure now whether he’d even live to see that special day, Rod wrote Dream Foundation, asking for his dream just two years early, on their 28th anniversary. “This dream that my wife and I share is very important to us,” he says. “I am hoping with all of my heart that I will have the opportunity to share this experience with [Susie] and [my] family.”
Rodney and his wife renew their wedding vows on their 28th anniversary.
Thanks to donated Alaska Airlines miles and the kindness of Shari Chang at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, Dream Foundation sent this precious couple to the golden sands of Hawaii, where their children reunited to celebrate their love for each other in a touching beachfront ceremony. “Our trip to Oahu brought a renewed energy to Rod,” Susie says. “Although the trip was bittersweet, the time our family spent together was what they all call ‘priceless.’ We have many new memories that we can hold near and dear to our heart.” Spring 2011 Newsletter | dreamfoundation.org | 9
In the MEDIA New York Times
A Final Cocoon: Dying at Home By Joyce Wadler November 11, 2010 A Garden From Childhood Susan Sanchez, an administrative assistant who lived in Santa Barbara with her husband, Oscar, a retired engineer, and her adult daughter, Amanda, loved gardens. For a few years after moving to California, she had a small garden with a patio and fountains, and after her first brush with illness — a brain tumor in 2001, when she was 60 — she starting writing stories, one of them about her grandmother’s garden in England. It was remarkably detailed, considering that the memories were 50 years old: Ms. Sanchez spoke of the whitewashed outhouse; the toad that she and her brother occasionally treated to worms; the path that divided the flowers and vegetables; and her favorite plants, the runner beans. “They grew up a number of tall trellises and had lovely scarlet flowers,” Ms. Sanchez wrote. “My granny called them scarlet runners. It was a high day and holiday when the scarlet runners were ready to eat.” The story concluded: “My granny’s garden fed our stomachs and our senses. My granny fed our souls.” Four years later, Ms. Sanchez was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and by 2009, she knew she was dying. She wanted to be cremated and chose for her funeral urn a garden birdbath; the support column would contain her ashes. Her garden, however, was in disrepair and her daughter, Amanda, who was having health problems of her own, was not strong enough to restore it. So her daughter contacted the Dream Foundation, a nonprofit organization. Using the story as a guide, volunteers created an English garden with the flowers from Ms. Sanchez’s childhood. The birdbath that was to be her resting place was highlighted with a circular flagstone path. The garden was finished just two days before Ms. Sanchez died, said Jackie Waddill, the donor relations manager for the Dream Foundation, but because Ms. Sanchez was able to help create it, she was comforted by the knowledge that it would one day be a beautiful place where her husband and daughter could remember her. Amanda Sanchez, who had a memorial there on the
anniversary of her mother’s death this year, said that the garden has been a comfort for her as well. “We have a lot of roses, irises and those bearded irises around her birdbath, and then I started growing some vegetables this year,” she said. How were they? “They were wonderful. And the birdbath is very visible. I was very close with my mother, and I know how much she enjoyed these things, watching the birds, so I do that now,” she said. “And the beans were practically right outside the door, so I just pull one off and stand there and eat them and think of her.”
Santa Barbara Magazine
A Dream Come True By Sean Knotts August 2010 “’They may say you are sick, but all I feel is how alive your spirit is,’ Lady Gaga told Noelle. ‘Listen to yourself and believe in your will.’”
InStyle
November 8, 2010 “Brad Goreski dressed in head-to-toe Ferragamo when the fashion label presented the Dream Foundation’s 9th annual Celebration of Dreams gala in Santa Barbara.”
MYFDBlog.com
The Dream Foundation’s Soiree with Ferragamo November 8, 2010 “We always love seeing a fashionable crowd swoon together in support of a greater good.”
Santa Barbara News-Press
10,000 dreams come true By Lorraine D. Wilson November 14, 2010 “The event featured one highlight after another as stars performed pro bono so every dollar raised could go to making dreams come true.”
LA Magazine
Dream On By Kari Mozena November 30, 2010 “It was the social event of the season, with ladies and gents in sparkly evening attire, a runway show of Ferragamo’s Spring 2011 Collection, ballerina-acrobats posing as table decorations during the silent auction, and some celeb action.”
The Joplin Globe Amanda with a birdbath containing her mother’s ashes. Photo credit: Kevin Scanlon for The New York Times
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This story also ran in
Dream trip leads to meeting with Favre for Parsons man By Ryan Atkinson December 12, 2010 “Vikings practice and then spent about 10 minutes talking to the 41-year-old quarterback. On Monday he’ll watch the Vikings take on the New York Giants from lower-level seats at Mall of America Field.”
In the MEDIA continued Santa Barbara Magazine
“Rob Lowe and wife, Sheryl, being honored at the Dream Foundation’s 9th Annual Celebration of Dreams. The event featured a fashion show by Salvatore Ferragamo and marked the organization’s fulfillment of 10,000 dreams.”
Rob and Sheryl Lowe are honored with the Founder’s Award at the 9th Annual Celebration of Dreams.
Dream a Little Dream February 12, 2011 “... marked a major milestone by fulfilling its 10,000th dream in 2010. The soiree was held at Bacara Resort and Spa, where Salvatore Ferragamo presented its spring 2011 collection and special guests—including David Archuleta and Dan Aykroyd—entertained an audience of Foundation families and the celebrities who support them.”
Santa Barbara Independent
Four Stars for Dream Foundation By Elizabeth Rogers February 26, 2011 “Dream Foundation has received a four-star rating (the highest possible) by Charity Navigator for the fourth year in a row... The four-star rating is given to only 13 percent of the over 5,000 national charities listed.”
Terminally ill Cleveland Browns fan gets his Super Bowl wish By Thomas Feran, February 4, 2011 “... Demyan will be at Super Bowl XLV on Sunday at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas. ‘Ed and I thought, What can we do that we normally would never have a chance to do?’ [his fiancée, Mary Kaye Mackulin] said. ‘Our mutual love of football was evident from the very beginning of our relationship, and it just seemed the perfect choice.’” Variations of this story also ran in:
NOOZHAWK Ed and his fiancée, Mary Kaye, outside the stadium before the big game
Dream brings ‘light’ to ill woman By Sena Christian, March 23, 2011 “... her ultimate dream remained out of reach until recently. On March 16, the Dream Foundation fulfilled her wish, albeit in a creative way. Her daughter, Cassie, Campanel wrote to the foundation a few weeks ago, expressing her mother’s wish Tamara Wilson receives a cake from dream to see fireflies... ‘In our search last year, we host, John Ladas. His company, Genentech, had just missed the optimum time to fly east served as the corporate sponsor to fulfill Wilson’s dream to “see the fireflies.” in order to view these magical creatures,’ Cassie’s letter said. ‘We thought we’d have more time this year. Is there any way to bring them to her?’ So the foundation’s ‘dream host’ volunteers planted shrubs outside Wilson’s bedroom window and installed solar powered simulated fireflies — so realistic, researchers use them to attract the winged beetles — in the branches. These ‘fireflies’ light up automatically each evening once the sun sets. ‘All of a sudden, I have all of this,’ Wilson said during the delivery. ‘Thank you very much.’”
Montecito Bank & Trust Employees Award $15,000 to 10 Nonprofit Groups By Alex Kacik March 17, 2011 “The Dream Foundation was among the 2011 Montecito Bank & Trust Anniversary Grants recipients. ‘The bank’s generosity is helping these dreams happen and helping families gain peace and closure in their loved one’s last days,’ said Erinn Lynch, the organization’s Communications Director.”
Marie Claire
Interview with Kendall and Libby Glazer, Founders of Stoney Clover Lane By Julia Morpurgo May 2, 2011 “There are many huge organizations that help kids under 18. But we’d never heard of anything for people over 18 – and I’m 19 now, so we thought as we’re getting older [supporting Dream Foundation] would be a nice way to help.”
Spring 2011 Newsletter | dreamfoundation.org | 11
ABOVE&BEYOND SERVING BASIC NEEDS
Every day, Dream Foundation fulfills dreams that range from sporting events to fun-filled vacations with children. Yet, many others – nearly half, in fact – are dreams for basic need items. A functioning water heater, new stove, batteries for hearing aids, comfortable nightclothes...when these things are lacking from the end-of-life journey, they become critical necessities. This is when Dream Foundation operates more as a relief organization, providing vital human comfort when people need it most. On the front lines -- serving as our liaison to those who suffer -- are the tirelessly devoted hospice nurses and social workers. We couldn’t do what we do without their help and compassion.
“The job of a hospice social worker can be very emotionally draining. While feeling powerless to help, the dream process allows me to do something. It is my favorite part of my job and I am reassured of my calling every time I help with a dream delivery. I had a patient once who cried tears of happiness when her lift recliner was delivered... One young man lived alone on his farm. He couldn’t get down his front steps because he was now confined to a wheelchair. Dream Foundation delivered him a wheelchair ramp! It meant the world to him that someone cared, and knew his needs were still important.
Helping fulfill basic requests allows me to reconnect with the true meaning of life: compassion and human kindness to one another.”
Amy Long, MSW Odyssey Healthcare
“During such a difficult and significant time in people’s lives, we recognize there are real life challenges and commitments that continue to face our families. Granting ‘basic need’ wishes allows us to minimize distractions that keep loved ones from being completely available. Families shouldn’t have to be
preoccupied with meeting basic needs to the point that they are not fully present for each other.” Tricia Ford, VP of Operations Evercare Hospice
“Dream Foundation made a significant difference for a terminally ill single mother with two young children (who shared their birthday in the same week). When Mom was too ill to leave her home to purchase birthday gifts for her children, Dream Foundation stepped forward. Within a week of my request, there were beautifully wrapped presents, perfectly chosen with love for each child. This was a simple dream that
made a very special difference for a family of three.”
Tiana Swede-Laskin, MSW Hospice of Santa Barbara (nonprofit)
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EVENTS September 2010
Dream Makers Circle Reception
On September 30, Dream Foundation held its annual Dream Makers Circle reception in honor of our Dream Makers Circle members (those who have donated $1,000 or more to help fulfill dreams) and to celebrate the fulfillment of our 10,000th dream. The event was held at the private Santa Barbara Hangar club. Duo Catering presented a special menu, including brick oven pizzas, Asian fusion stations and sweets. Guests were entertained by American Idol alum, Didi Benami, and La Petite Chouette aerial dancers. Our Dream Ambassador, Mitch Meacham, (whose dream was to meet “Good Morning America” correspondent, Robin Roberts) shared his special journey and continuous fight to be a hopeful voice for our dreamers. A special thank-you to our event sponsors: Botanik, Brophy Bros., duo Catering & Events, Hollye and Jeff Jacobs, and Rockefeller Financial.
nothing in comparison to her passion for incorporating philanthropy in her ongoing mission to create beautiful clothing, and give back to those in need. Lyn, along with an amazing team, Trish Rooney Alden, Hollye Jacobs, Whitney Lasky, Shawna Owen and Alexandra Knight, hosted private trunk shows throughout 2010, donating 20 percent to dreams. We give thanks for every event and everyone who contributed – and feel grateful for each day fashion, compassion and gratitude come together.
(Photo credit: Henry Ventura) Salvatore Ferragamo Fashion Show, Spring 2011 Collection
November 2010
9th Annual Celebration of Dreams Shawna Owen, Lyn Devon, Hollye Jacobs, Thomas Rollerson, and Whitney Laskey gather for a day of compassion and beautiful fashion.
October 2010
Party with a Purpose
(Photo credit: Scott Gibson) Justine Hamilton, Josiah Hamilton, Sara Lytle, Mark Shields, Jo Shields
(Photo credit: Scott Gibson) Dream Foundation’s Thomas Rollerson and Michelle Mullaney with Melinda Williams and Kenny Loggins
Lyn Devon Trunk Shows
Dream Foundation is fortunate to include clothing designer, Lyn Devon, (www. lyndevon.com) among our Dream Family. Lyn’s dedication to fashion and design is
We are humbled and grateful when people learn about Dream Foundation and feel compelled to help. One evening, Chantell Wilkerson, a party planner in New Orelans, learned about Dream Foundation on, “Keeping up with the Kardashians.” She immediately started planning a party for dreams. In Chantell’s words, “Hosting a party in honor of Dream Foundation was the best idea!! Not just because I love getting all of my family and friends together for fun, but I wanted them to learn about an organization that truly touched my heart.” In under two months, Chantell planned an amazing cocktail party filled with dream stories, tasty treats, music, and most importantly – sharing her passion for dreams. Nearly 100 guests attended, including Louisiana’s Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu and wife, Cheryl. Chantell gathered sponsors to underwrite the cost of the event, so all funds raised went directly to Dream Foundation. A special thank-you to event sponsor, Critique, Inc. (www.critiqueinc. com) for helping make this event a terrific success! Thank you, Chantell… You raised over $8,000 for our dream families!
On November 6, Dream Foundation held its 9th Annual Celebration of Dreams at the Bacara Resort and Spa. The event featured a runway show by famed luxury fashion brand, Salvatore Ferragamo (featuring its 2011 Spring Collection) and the Founder’s Award Presentation to actor Rob Lowe and his wife, Sheryl Lowe. An event unlike any other, Celebration of Dreams combined high fashion (on and off the runway), worldclass entertainment, and creative cuisine - all benefiting Dream Foundation. The evening’s festivities took guests on a journey of 10,000 dreams, including special messages and testimonies from dream families. Celebrity entertainers wowed the audience, including rock guitarist, Orianthi, American Idol’s David Archuleta, and American Idol alum, Kimberly Locke. Dan Aykroyd surprised the audience by closing the show with Jimmy Messina and a revival performance of Blues Brothers hit songs. Famed dancers of, “So You Think You Can Dance,” Caitlin Kinney and Miriam & Leonardo – along with the youth dance group, Rage Crew − rounded out the live performances. Actor Bill Paxton presented the Lowes with Founder’s Award,
(Photo credit: Henry Ventura) From left, Chris Duddy, Joely Fisher, Donna Dixon, Dan Aykroyd, Rob Lowe, David & Jan Crosby, and Bill Paxton
Spring 2011 Newsletter | dreamfoundation.org | 13
DREAM FOUNDATION SPRING 2011 NEWSLETTER
EVENTS continued and local infectious disease physician, Dr. Stephen Hosea, received the Unsung Heroes award. A very special thanks to Chris Edgecomb, Lisa Jones and David Merrell.
(Photo credit: Henry Ventura) Thomas Rollerson holds a stack of dream applications as he stands with dream recipients, Noelle Valladares and Mitch Meacham.
The evening was a once-in-a-lifetime treat, and the sold-out show included performances by: REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin, Alan Parsons, Larry Carlton, Doyle Dykes, Pablo Cruise’s Dave Jenkins, Brian Culbertson, Chris Pelonis, Kansas’ Phil Ehart, Steve Ferrone, Jimmy Nichols, Jaime Kyle, Adam Watts, David Pack, and Simon Phillips, Jeff, Mike and Joe Porcaro, of Toto. The house band included the incredible Tom Brooks (keys), Alex Al (bass), Tom Dante and Adam Watts (drums) and Greg Vail (sax), with amazing singers, Keri Larsen and David Loucks. A perfect blend of spectacular music, delicious food and an outpouring of compassion, the event was a win-win for all who joined and participated. Guests grooved and sang along to favorite hit songs, all while supporting families facing a life-limiting illness.
Santa Barbara High School Dream Team members, Darcy McElroy, Sheridan Spivey, Dena Slaff, Dani Rottman
December 2010 Youth Advisory Committee December Trunk Show
On December 8, Santa Barbara High School Youth Advisory Committee (a.k.a. SBHS Dream Team) hosted an amazing trunk show on behalf of dreams, featuring gifts in all price ranges from Camille K jewelry, Jules Allen Cashmere, BrillianT, Jessica Foster Confections, Montecito Country Kitchen, Petalos di Pauli, and more. This beautiful holiday event hosted on behalf of Dream Foundation filled our hearts with gratitude. The home of Cynthia and Sheridan Spivey was a symbolic representation of all the warmth and compassion bestowed on this event... lovely succulents, handcrafted greetings, sweet scents of chocolate and gingerbread, beautiful jewelry, clothing, and of course – the holiday spirit of giving.
During the silent auction portion of the evening, Dream Foundation raised nearly $10,000 for David Pack’s dream fund, which is focused on artists and musicians facing an end-of-life journey.
February 2011 Kozy Shack®
On February 16, Dream Foundation Ambassador, Brad Garrett, and supporter, Doris Roberts, participated as celebrity judges in “The Kozy Shack Recipe Showdown,” hosted by Kozy Shack® (a family owned company that has been producing quality desserts since 1967) to highlight creative ways to use Kozy Shack® puddings in sweet and savory recipes. Along with a $10,000 kitchen makeover to the recipe winner, Kozy Shack® made a significant donation in support of 75 dreams in 2011! A special thank-you to the “A- Team’s” Andrew Cohen and Marc Simon for helping make this a special and tasty event in support of dreams!
(Photo credit: Baron Spafford) Emcees, Alan Thicke and Jay Thomas
April 2011
Dream Makers Dream Boat
On April 23, Dream Foundation hosted Dream Makers Circle Members (those who adopted a dream within the last year) on a “Dream Boat” excursion aboard the Crystal Cruises luxury liner, the Crystal Symphony, which was anchored off the coast of Santa Barbara. Guests enjoyed a “mini-getaway” that included a light lunch, spirits, entertainment, and a tour of the beautiful ship. Special acknowledgements go to Steve Shulem of Strictly Vacations; the beautiful accommodations offered by Crystal Cruises; the talent and humor of Jay Thomas, Alan Thicke, and Richard Weston-Smith. Driving home the meaning behind our special gathering was Juliette, sister of our beloved Dream Ambassador, Noelle. In her words: “A heartfelt thank you to all of you in the Dream Foundation family. You sure gave us something to smile about. And sometimes, something to smile about is just what we need.”
January 2011 David Pack & Friends at NAMM Jam!
David Pack hosted the 2nd Annual David Pack & Friends “NAMM Jam” Music Event Saturday, January 15, at the festive Spaghettini Grill and Jazz Club.
Brad Garrett and Doris Roberts taste the competing recipes.
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(Photo credit: Baron Spafford) Steve Shulem, Bob Murphey, Michael Erickson, and Richard Weston-Smith
Culture of COMPASSION
Volunteers making a difference in the lives of our Dreamers
Genentech
Dream Foundation works out of one small office in Santa Barbara, yet is able to fulfill more than 2,000 dreams across the country each year due to the help of corporate partners, like Genentech. Since its inception in 2009, Dream Foundation’s partnership with Genentech has grown to include over 600 representatives from the firm’s entire BioOncology division. Just in the first quarter of 2011, 142 Genentech Dream Hosts have delivered upwards of 50 dreams nationwide. Not only do Dream Hosts deliver dream packages and itineraries, they often augment the dream with their own contributions. As you can see from the photos, Genentech Dream Hosts are our “arms across the country,” providing hugs when we can’t be there in person. They deliver dreams with a smile, an embrace...a celebration. We are so thankful for this wonderful partnership and Genentech’s commitment to dreams!
Dressed as Disney characters to enhance the experience of the dream delivery, Genentech Dream Hosts in Washington present Jacob with his dream of a family trip to Disneyland.
In Texas, Genentech Dream Hosts present Lavonne with her dream of attending a NASCAR race and meeting Dale Earnhardt, Jr.
Genentech Dream Host, Sushil Patel, attends a 49ers game with our dreamer, Choy, and his stepdaughter.
National Charity League
Dream Foundation is honored to be nominated and elected by the Santa Barbara chapter of National Charity League (NCL) as a new charity partner! NCL is a national philanthropic organization with a mission to foster the mother-daughter relationship through a commitment to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences. The Santa Barbara Chapter includes 225 women and daughters who attend grades seven through 12 in area schools.
“NCL is thrilled with our new partnership with Dream Foundation! Amid end-of-the-schoolyear exams and graduations our chapter members managed to donate over 200 hours of philanthropy work during the past two months! This is a testament to the connection our members have to Dream Foundation’s mission! We are excited and look forward to many opportunities to help Dream Foundation in the future. We so believe in the amazing work you do for all your dream recipients!”
Bella and Debbie Darke
-- Debbie Darke, NCL Patroness
National Charity League Patronesses volunteer with Dream Foundation services.
“Working at Dream Foundation means so much to me! It is such a touching experience and I really enjoy putting together flower bouquets and decorating packages. It is an amazing philanthropy and I hope to spend as much time as possible helping out!!” -- Bella Darke, NCL Ticktocker
Spring 2011 Newsletter | dreamfoundation.org | 15
TheDREAMBackers
Dream Foundation is so fortunate to have the AMAZING support of talented artists and retailers who help raise funds and awareness of our Dream Families. Whether it’s a lovely scented candle, luxuriously comfy pajamas, or compassionately fashionable accessories, these are items you want to have ...and as a bonus, you’re helping dreams come true at the same time! Stock up on in-a-pinch gifts or splurge a little on yourself or a loved-one.
Visit our “Where to Shop” page at www.dreamfoundation.org/where-to-shop.html Stoney Clover Lane
Stoney Clover Lane is a jewelry line created by teenage sisters, Kendall and Libby Glazer, who aim to show youth it’s fashionable to have a big heart. Dream Foundation receives 25 percent of any Stoney Clover Lane purchase...and since they’ve started the girls have adopted 10 dreams! As seen on Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Chace Crawford and others, the beaded bracelets with different charms and metals come in many handmade sets, both pre-designed and customizable.
DREAM FOR 21
Dream for 21 is an endeavor by 20-year-old Austin Spivey to adopt 21 dreams before she turns 21. To raise the necessary funds, she created a special leather wrap bracelet with hopes of selling 1,000 for $21 a piece. “Dream Big. Dream On. DREAM FOR 21. Dream Foundation.” By wearing this message on your wrist, you are keeping Dream Foundation families in your heart. One-hundred percent of sales goes to dreams!
Adesso
Adesso is a jewelry line created by Santa Barbara artist, Samantha Goldstone, who uses an array of vintage beads, stones and metals to infuse each piece with local and international style. A cancer survivor herself, Goldstone is passionate about helping those coping with cancer and chronic illness. In her support of dreams, she created a special Adesso for Dream Foundation Charity Collection, with 100 percent of the profits going to dreams. Browse the brand new collection featuring a white wood beaded bracelet with recycled glass and a sterling silver charm, and a gold-plated chain adorned with a labradorite nugget and gold plated wing (perfect for layering)!
Waxing Poetic
Waxing Poetic is the creation of sisters, Patti and Lizanne, in the spirit of global community and goodness. We are honored they have chosen to support Dream Foundation this year! For every sumptuouslyscented Ambrosial luminary candle purchased, a portion of sales will benefit Dream Foundation. Please order your fragrant, soy-based, lead-free candle!
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Piggy Pajamas
Made of dreamily soft organic cotton with styles for men and women, Piggy Pajamas are whimsical and sophisticated... offering the ultimate in luxurious comfort. They’re also one of Oprah’s Favorite Things! Sleep or lounge happily knowing 10 percent of the retail price on all sales from the “Toile Around The World” print will go directly to dreams.
NOTESfromthe heart Dear Dream Foundation, . Tyler Perry. hly favored to have met Mr hig and ed ss ble y ver l fee I ionate man. standing, kind, and compass He is a very grounded, under which is with him! I laughed a lot, life my of e tim t bes the I had to personough so much pain. I want great, because I’ve been thr you did to and everyone involved for all ion dat un Fo am Dre nk tha ally h a special w, I can move forward wit make my dream a reality. No who helped heart. God bless everyone my in ent ntm nte co of ce pla make this happen. Sincerely, Rishina
Dear Dream Foundation, Our incredible and awesome weeken d ended up a true “dream” trip, tha nks to all of you. We had a great time at the gam e, and spent a lot of time on the field beforehand. Pat Bowlen (Denver Broncos own er) and Brandon Lloyd (player) aut ographed for us, and the team played its best game in years. We had a wonderful and bles sed time, and we thank you with all our hearts! Dave
me. Dear Drea m Foundation, the fantastic time Drea m Foundation provided my wifethand a block er I want to thank you for to play the part of Billy in Billy Elliot at a beautiful eat d ts. It was a thrill sea at gre had we and , Our gr andson was schedulesol 00 22 out crowd of about Here is a from the hotel. It was a itdwouldn’t have been possible without Drea m Foundation. to see him perform, and eone else achieve their drea m. small donation to help somod bless, Thank you and G William
Dear Dream Team, You sure made my dream come true. My great-gran dson and I had the most wonderful time. Our cooking time was great . We watched movies and had popcorn, of course. In the morning he would crawl in bed with me, and we’d let his dad sleep in... The snow was such a gift. My Little Robert and his dad made a snowman and had a snowball fight. We ate out a few times, and the money was really a help. There is no way to thank you enough. God bless you always, Mary
Spring 2011 Newsletter | dreamfoundation.org | 17
PlannedGIVING “Leaving a Legacy of Dreams” Endowment Giving
Named endowment funds offer a way to associate an individual or organization’s name in perpetuity with the important mission of the Dream Foundation. Names associated with endowed funds become part of the organization’s language and legacy to individuals and their families who are facing their final journey together. Such endowed funds to support the Dream Foundation bring honor to the name and inspire others for decades to come. Endowments are funds that are permanently invested, with a portion of the interest used annually to support a program or activity. The remaining interest is added to the principal to ensure the purchasing power of the endowment over time. Such named funds can be established today by outright gifts or by deferred gifts through charitable trusts, annuities, bequests, insurance policies, retirement assets and gifts of land and other property.
Announcing Dream Foundation Donor Wall
In May 2011 Dream Foundation unveiled its first Donor Wall at the national headquarters in Santa Barbara. This beautifully-designed display recognizes and honors Dream Foundation’s most generous donors and supporters since the foundation’s inception in 1994, including those whose cumulative giving during this period exceeds $25,000 in cash or $50,000 in in-kind donations, our corporate “Partners in Dreams,” our airline partners, major supporters of our Flower Empower program, and our Legacy Dream Circle. The Legacy Dream Circle recognizes those who make current gifts of $25,000 or more to the Dream Endowment Fund or who include a provision in PA RTNEto RScome. I N DRE A MS their estate plan to help sustain the mission of Dream Foundation for generations We are grateful for our Corporate Partners who sustain our programs with their significant support.
$100,000 and above
FOUNDERS CIRCLE
$25,000–$49,999
Dream Foundation is grateful to those who have given a cumulative total of $25,000 or more in cash gifts to make dreams come true since our founding in 1994 through January 2011.
$1,000,000 and above Genentech
Odyssey VistaCare Hospice Foundation
$500,000–$999,999 PacifiCare Foundation
Walnut Crest
Anonymous
Andy and Dee Puzder
Greenburg Family Foundation
Thomas Rollerson and Michael Erickson
Jon and Martha Bull
Hammond Family Fund
Jason and Krista Rowe
Richard and Sally Burnham
Beverly D.L. Hills and Bart Nelson
Gregory Sachs and Darla Friedlen
Louise and Tim Casey
John F. Hodgson
Shelley and Paul Schulte
Richard Cazen, M.D. Estate
Hollye and Jeff Jacobs
Lynda and Mark Schwartz
Chloe
Chris and Brenda Jaeb
Bui and Herb Simon
Colleen and Michael Taylor
Angel Ball Foundation
Diane Warren
Entertainment Industry Foundation
Wells Fargo Foundation
Lipton
Wood-Claeyssens Foundation
Brad Garrett
The Norris-Rocaberte Family Foundation
Harmon Kardon
Orfalea Family Foundation
Kevin Harder
A J and Valerie Rice
David and Suzanne Johnson
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians
Audrey Knight
Vogue
Bob and Holly Murphy
Wayne Clark
Layla and Essam Khashoggi
The Sterling/Winters Co.
Frank Dameron
Joel Scott Landson
S. Mark Taper Foundation
Tina and Killick Datta
Claire Levine
Linden Family Foundation Thomas Livermore and Scott Shadrick Michael and Anne Smith Towbes United Airlines Sara Lytle and Fred Davis
Edgebrook Foundation
Diana and Ralph MacFarlane
Diane von Furstenberg
Faye and Rod Eson
Macy’s West
George Walton
Mel and Angie Farber
Pamela Mahonchak
Raymond Weil, USA
Ferragamo USA
Haley McGuire
Paul and Beverly Weiss
Andrew and Ivana Firestone
Arlene Montesano
Nicole Winnaman
Gary and Anna Nett Northwest Airlines Employee Giving
Compassion Partners Program
Anita May and Arnold Rosenstein
Alaska Airlines
Marjoe Gortner Entertainment
Islands Magazine
Northwest Airlines
Vienna and Chris Salazar
$5,000–$24,999
May and Stanley Smith Trust Susan Simmons Smith Star Foundation
Bill and Amber Sweedler
Kozy Shack Enterprises, Inc.
Venoco, Inc. Weakest Link
Nora and Michael McNeely-Hurley
Weingart Foundation
Mercedes-Benz, USA
Christopher Williams
$100,000–$249,999
Dan Aykroyd and Donna Dixon
Jennifer Holliday
Angie and Stephen Redding
Connie Armijo
Hutton Parker Foundation
Mimi Rogers and Chris Ciaffa
Jeff and Susan Bridges
Mimi Leder
Ray Romano
Taylor Dayne
Richard and Susan Lutz
Steven E. Shulem
Brad Garrett
PacifiCare Foundation
Brooke White
J Paul and Renee Gignac
Priscilla Presley
who are battling Ed Begley, Jr.
David James Elliott
Sandy Perilli and Vikram Verma
Mike and Maureen Birdsall
Mel and Angie Farber
Paul and Barbara Reitzin
Arunas and Pam Chesonis
Marcia Gay Harden
Sandals International
Clear Channel Radio
Harmon Kardon
Anne Steele
Christopher Cross
Michael Johns
Eileen Sweeney
life-threatening illness. Matt Dillon
Kenny Loggins
Tiffany & Co.
Disneyland Resort
David Merrell
United Airlines
Fran Dresher
Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker, LLP
V3/Ventura Printing
Chris and Maryann Edgecomb
Yes Design Group
Norris-Rocaberte Family Foundation
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians
The Michael Douglas Foundation
Angie and Stephen Redding
Strictly Vacations
Chris and Maryann Edgecomb
Leslie and Paul Ridley-Tree
Venoco Inc.
Marcia Gay Harden
Walnut Crest
CKE Restaurants, Inc. Investec
Wells Fargo Foundation
who are battling
KSL Resorts
F LOW ER EM PO WER We are grateful for the major contributors to our Flower Empower Program that brings joy to those
$5,000–$24,999
in the community in need of cheer.
a life-limiting illness and their families.
is a gift to precious lives
Aston Hotels and Resorts
Lyn Devon
It’s a gift of compassion that brings
relief, comfort, and precious memories
McDonald’s
Busch Gardens
Meadowbrook Resort
Carl’s Jr.
Ramada Maingate Anaheim
Compassion Partners
San Diego Zoo
Disney
The SCOOTER Store
Dollywood
SeaWorld Adventure Park
Give Kids the World
Seralago Hotel & Suites
CKE Restaurants, Inc.
suffering from life threatening illness.
Graceland
Universal Studios Hollywood
Hardee’s
Universal Orlando
Hasbro
Walt Disney World
Howard Johnson Hotel Anaheim
Wisconsin Dells
Knott’s Berry Farm
Investec KSL Resorts
Our donors share our belief that
any human being, regardless of age,
B & H Flowers, Inc.
Myriad Flowers International
Botanik
Gary and Anna Nett
Chocolats du CaliBressan
Pattis Family Foundation
Citrix Systems, Inc.
Angie and Stephen Redding
Montecito Bank & Trust
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Domingo Farms
Rotary Club of Santa Barbara
Ever-Bloom
Kenny and Elizbeth Slaught
Mel and Angie Farber
Santa Barbara Farmers Market
Strictly Vacations Venoco Inc.
Andrew and Ivana Firestone
Towbes Foundation
Florabundance
Mary Ellen Trainor-Zemeckis
Danielle Hahn—Rose Story Farm
Valley Flowers
The Himovitz Family
Venoco, Inc.
Maximum Nursery
Westland Floral Company
Greg McNeely
Westerley Orchids, Inc.
Wells Fargo Foundation Jayme Lee Misfeldt
to their families. It’s a gift of love
to honor their heart’s tender wishes.
$50,000–$99,000
Audrey Knight
Dan and Donna Aykroyd
Montecito Bank & Trust
Bryant and Sons Jewelers
Bryant and Sons Jewelers
The SCOOTER Store
Anonymous
Brophy Bros.
Lyn Devon
A gift to the Dream Foundation
individuals and their families Kenny and Elizabeth Slaught
McCallum Theatre
$25,000–$49,999
the quality of life for
Give Kids the World Village
David and Paige Glickman
Debbie and Dan Kass
is to enhance
Thank you to the donors who have made gifts of $25,000 or more to build the Dream Endowment Fund.
individuals and their families
Brophy Bros.
the quality of life for $250,000–$499,999
Kathy Ireland and Greg Olsen
Dream Foundation
We are grateful for the partners who contribute in-kind resources for the dreams of those facing
The Patron Spirits Company
Tracy Greene Estate
Diana Wilson
$25,000–$49,999
life-threatening illness.
Leslie and Paul Ridley-Tree
Kim Kardashian
The mission of
$500,000 and above
Evercare Hospice & Palliative Care
Hutton Parker Foundation
Sunny and Ray Thomas Kathy and Charles Thurston
Debra and Bill Frank
Rob Hancock and Bob Swartz
Laurie Vandeberghe
Roxanna and Randall Solakian
in-kind gifts from 1994 through January 2011.
Charlotte Doyle Davis Trust
Steven E. Shulem Kenny and Elizabeth Slaught
Tracy Greene Estate
Morris and Irma Jurkowitz
is to enhance
Montecito Bank & Trust
Montgomery Family Foundation
Bernie and Lori Sandler
Charlotte Doyle Davis Trust Chris and Maryann Edgecomb
CKE Restaurants, Inc.
Joely Fisher and Chris Duddy
Jayme Lee Misfeldt
Tracy and Michael Bollag Combined Federal Campaign
Thomas Rollerson and Michael Erickson
Marilyn Cole-Shatz
Nora McNeely-Hurley
Dream Foundation is grateful to those who have given a cumulative total of $50,000 or more in
Sue Bennett
Richard Cazen, M.D. Estate
Charles and Esther Mylnek Trust
Stan and Roberta Fishman
$50,000–$99,999
$50,000–$99,999
Steve and Adriana Slater
John Paul and Eloise DeJoria
Charles and Esther Mlynek Trust Newman’s Own
in their estate plans.
Mike and Lisa Snyder
Dream Foundation
Lavonne Briscoe Chris and Maryann Edgecomb
We are grateful for those who are building a “Legacy of Dreams” by including Dream Foundation
Brad Jendersee
The Michael Douglas Foundation
$100,000–$249,999
LEGAC Y D R EAM CIRCLE
We are grateful for our Corporate Partners who sustain our programs with their significant support.
$100,000 and above
Jeopardy!
Clay and Sally Dickens
Angie and Stephen Redding
PART N ER S I N D R EAM S
$50,000–$99,999
The Citigroup Private Bank
The mission of
Anonymous
Vince and Marney Otte
Global Biorhythm Events Greater Twin Cities United Way
Susan Bower
Madonna Ciccone
$250,000–$499,999
Kevin and Debbie Gerszewski
Debra and Ross Borden James S. Bower Foundation
AI R LI N E PART N ER S We are grateful for the airlines whose contributions make reunion and vacation dreams possible.
Alaska Airlines
Delta Airlines
Continental Airlines
United Airlines
deserves to have his or her final wish acknowledged... —Thomas W. Rollerson, Founder, Dream Foundation
We are grateful for the partners who contribute in-kind resources for the dreams of those facing a life-limiting illness and their families.
A gift to the Dream Foundation is a gift to precious lives suffering from life threatening illness. It’s a gift of compassion that brings relief, comfort, and precious memories to their families. It’s a gift of love to honor their heart’s tender wishes. Our donors share our belief that any human being, regardless of age, deserves to have his or her final wish acknowledged... —Thomas W. Rollerson, Founder, Dream Foundation
18 | dreamfoundation.org | Spring 2011 Newsletter
Aston Hotels and Resorts
McDonald’s
Busch Gardens
Meadowbrook Resort
Carl’s Jr.
Ramada Maingate Anaheim
Compassion Partners
San Diego Zoo
Disney
The SCOOTER Store
Dollywood
SeaWorld Adventure Park
Give Kids the World
Seralago Hotel & Suites
Graceland
Universal Studios Hollywood
Hardee’s
Universal Orlando
Hasbro
Walt Disney World
Please contact Carol Brown at carol@dreamfoundation.org A I RLI NE PA RTNE RS to inquire about endowment giving or find out how to be included on our recognition lists that will be updated annually on the Donor Wall. Howard Johnson Hotel Anaheim
Wisconsin Dells
Knott’s Berry Farm
We are grateful for the airlines whose contributions make reunion and vacation dreams possible.
Alaska Airlines
Delta Airlines
Continental Airlines
United Airlines
Dream Foundation
Nearly 40 percent of our dream recipients have young children at home. Coping with the impending loss of a parent – and the intense emotional, physical and financial strain terminal illness has on a family – may well be the most difficult challenge a child can face. Dream Foundation’s Toy Program provides age-appropriate toys for dream recipients to give their children, allowing them to share happiness and smiles when illness has brought so much pain.
Toys bring smiles to faces at a time when they’re needed most.
Hasbro’s Children Fund and Ty Inc. have generously donated all of the toys for our Toy Program through 2011. Thanks to Irma and Morris Jurkowitz, Michael McDonald, Leslie Ridley-Tree, Tom and Sandy Dittmer, and David Johnson, who adopted the Toy Program in 2011.
The child of a dream recipient proudly shows his new truck.
Special to Dream Foundation’s hometown of Santa Barbara, Flower Empower is a volunteer-driven program that delivers hope and compassion – in the form of beautiful bouquets – to those in need. The mission of Flower Empower is to ensure the recipients know they are not alone, and their community cares. In addition to beautiful bouquets, flower recipients also enjoy fresh-baked cookies, fine chocolates and cards handmade by local children, who represent such schools and organizations as the Montecito YMCA, Bright Start Early School, Cold Spring School, and Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Children of all ages also make cards every Saturday at the farmers’ market.
Flower Empower Program Sponsor and volunteer extraordinaire, Ivana Firestone, making deliveries.
Thank you to the 2011 team of dedicated Flower Empower volunteers, growers, cookie-bakers and chocolatiers, including B&H Flowers, Botanik, Chocolats du CaliBressan, Domingo Farms, Ever-Bloom, Florabundance, the Himovitz Family, Maximum Nursery, Myriad, Trader Joe’s, Valley Flowers Inc., Westerlay Orchids and Westland Floral. Special appreciation goes to Andrew and Ivana Firestone and Angie and Steve Redding for adopting the program in 2011. Young students at the Montecito YMCA make cards for flower deliveries.
Homemade cards accompany flower deliveries.
Spring 2011 Newsletter | dreamfoundation.org | 19
Nonprofit Organization U.S Postage PAID Santa Barbara, CA Permit Number 692
$100,000 and above
IN-KIND PARTNERS Airline Partners: Alaska Airlines Delta Airlines Continental Airlines United Airlines
$50,000 - $99,000
$25,000 - $49,000
www.dreamfoundation.org NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS: 1528 CHAPALA ST., SUITE 304 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101 805.564.2131 FAX 805.564.7002
Attraction Partners: Busch Gardens Compassion Partners Disneyland Dollywood Give Kids the World Graceland Knott’s Berry Farm San Diego Zoo Sea World Adventure Park Universal Orlando Universal Studios Hollywood Walt Disney World Wisconsin Dells
GOgreen
THINK ACT PROTECT
Hospitality Partners: Aston Hotels and Resorts CKE Restaurants Howard Johnson Hotel Anaheim Marriott San Diego McDonald’s Santa Barbara Meadowbrook Resort Ramada Maingate Anaheim Seralago Hotel & Suites Wyndham Vacation Ownership Sports Partners: Los Angeles Lakers San Francisco 49ers The NASCAR Foundation Toy Program Partners: Hasbro Ty Warner
Quality of Life Partners: The SCOOTER Store U.S. Medical Supplies Flower Empower Partners: B & H Flowers, Inc. Botanik Chocolats du CaliBressan Domingo Farms Ever-Bloom Florabundance Rose Story Farm Maximum Nursery Myriad Flowers International Santa Barbara Farmer’s Market Valley Flowers Westland Floral Company Westerly Orchids, Inc.
It is our strong belief that every action is an important step towards the healing of the environment and that everyone should be able to participate in protecting our earth. If you would like to receive your next Dream Foundation newsletter paperless, email your request to: sonia@ DreamFoundation.org.
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