On May 17, The Walt Disney Company and Blue Star Families hosted their largest activation to date—a milestone Blue Star Books event at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The event that promotes reading, fun and storytelling was the 25th such event since Disney and Blue Star families first joined forces in 2011. For more than 10 years, Disney has supported Blue Star Families donating more than 370,000 books to enrich military families.
As Disney Celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, the company is building upon a nearly 15-year relationship with Blue Star Families with a $2.5 million donation the company previously announced to create even more magical moments for U.S. military families nationwide; including special events and movie screenings throughout the country’s semiquincentennial.
Both organizations were grateful for the hospitality of The Library of Congress for hosting this milestone event as the country celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States. Disney brought the magic as military families were welcomed to this storied location by beloved Disney Characters special appearances by Belle from Beauty and the Beast; Buzz Lightyear and Woody from Toy Story; Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse; and Sophia the First.
The participating military families experienced once-in-a lifetime moments including a special story time with Belle, creating an unforgettable experience filled with imagination and meaningful connection. Families also enjoyed a variety of activities, from coloring to Toy Story–themed crafts.
As part of the special occasion, Disney VoluntEARS invited children to select from thousands of donated Disney and National Geographic books. Each child was also delighted to receive a Mickey Mouse plush.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING:
Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families
“Disney has been a trusted partner to military families for years, creating moments of joy, connection, and belonging for the families who serve alongside our nation’s service members. It has been an incredible honor to work alongside Disney to help military families feel seen, supported, and connected through every chapter of military life, from deployments to relocations and everything in between.”
Lisa Haines, Senior Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility at The Walt Disney Company
“Stories have a powerful way of bringing people together—especially for military families navigating time apart. Through our work with Blue Star Families, we’re honored to create moments of connection, comfort and joy, continuing Disney’s longstanding admiration for those who serve and the families who stand beside them.”
Below s a link to the electronic press kit, including photos and video from the events at Disneyland Resort as well as soundbites from Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families and Bill Bailey, Senior Vice President of Government Relations for The Walt Disney Company.
Admiration for the U.S. Armed Forces is an important part of The Walt Disney Company’s more than 100-year history that began with founders Walt and Roy O. Disney who both served their country during the First World War.
