See How Disney World Is Partnering with Local Children’s Hospitals!

Disney is celebrating Earth Month in a very special way.

Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life

You may have heard about all of the fun experiences coming to Disney World for the occasion: special treats, rare characters, and so much more. But Disney is also taking this time to build on a historic partnership, all while bringing the magic of animals to children.

Pre-pandemic, Disney’s Animals, Science, and Environment Cast Members frequented Central Florida children’s hospitals with rabbits, hedgehogs, and birds in tow. Dr. Scott Terrell, Direct of Animals and Science Operations, explained that these animals helped reduce anxiety and provide distractions to the children in the hospital. He cited “the positive impact that the magic of nature has” in explaining how beneficial the program was.

Part of the team! ©Disney

But in today’s situation, the team had to improvise. So they thought of a special Earth Month activity! Now, the kids can watch videos of the team showing them various animals around the park. Then, they’re led through their very own version of Animal Kingdom’s Animation Experience drawing class!

©Disney

The children draw characters like Dumbo and Simba, with a matching plush by their side and the guidance of an Animation Experience character artist. Disney explains that the program allows them to combine “our rich legacy of caring for the environment with our ongoing support in local children’s hospitals.” And we LOVE that this partnership exists!

©Disney

We’re happy to see Disney making a positive difference in the community, and we hope this story brightens your spirits as much as it did ours! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney news.