Carter’s, one of Bert’s Big Adventure’s longest sponsors, first began its partnership with the nonprofit in 2010. And as Bert’s Big Adventure has grown over the last six years, so has its partnership with Carter’s.
“It was important to us to be able to do more than just give money,” says Jill Wilson, senior vice president of human resources and talent development at Carter’s. “We wanted an opportunity for our employees to get involved and be connected to this great cause. … With that, the Fairy Godparent program was born.”
Launched in May of 2010 through the Carter’s Charitable Foundation, the Fairy Godparent program supports Bert’s Big Adventure’s children and their families through the stress and uncertainty of hospitalizations. Its volunteers — many of whom are Carter’s employees — visit Bert’s Big Adventure children at partner hospitals daily throughout their hospitalization, bringing toys, activities, food and a much-needed break for the entire family.
“We thought the Fairy Godparent program was such a wonderful way to support beyond the Bert’s Big Adventure trip,” says Wilson, “and a way for our employees to get more involved with the children.”
In addition to the Fairy Godparent program, the company also provides a team of volunteers at nearly every Bert’s Big Adventure event and Reunion Adventure throughout the year. Most fun, though, is their trademark booth at The Bert Show’s broadcast at the annual send-off party.
“We try to pick a theme with things the Bert’s Big Adventure VIP kids will be seeing at Walt Disney World® to get them even more excited for the trip. Last year, we had a “Frozen” theme and this year our theme was “Star Wars,” says Katy Adams, Carter’s Human Resources director.
“Typically, all our volunteer slots are filled within five minutes of sending out a sign up form for the event.”
Because of its strong support, steady supply of passionate volunteers and commitment to growing along with Bert’s Big Adventure, Carter’s has become a trusted teammate, helping Bert’s Big Adventure accomplish more each year. “We felt it was a great match,” Wilson says, which makes perfect sense when you consider the foundation’s mission: to help children thrive.
