15 YEARS OF... touching lives providing needs reuniting families

SPRING 2009
NEWSLETTER
www.dreamfoundation.org
The mission of the Dream Foundation is to enhance the quality of life of individuals and their families who are battling life-limiting illness.
15 YEARS OF...
touching lives
providing needs
reuniting families
bringing joy
at the end of life’s journey
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 1
A Message From The Founder
People are a gift.
Charity Navigator is America’s
premier independent charity
evaluator. They help charitable
givers make intelligent decisions
by providing in-depth, objective
ratings and analysis of the
financial health of America’s
largest charities. Charity
Navigator awarded Dream
Foundation four out of a possible
four star rating.
The citation reads: “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.”
IN THIS ISSUE
From the Founder ........................ 2
We Get Letters .............................. 3
Dreams Come True ..................... 4
Above & Beyond .......................... 6
2008 Events ................................. 8
We here at Dream Foundation are reminded of this every single
day. From our dream recipients who entrust us with their hopes
and fears, to our donors who remind us of the selflessness of
giving, to our volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that we
are able to continue our mission. All bring their extraordinary
gifts and share them with us at this special place called the
Dream Foundation.
And we like to share these gifts with you too through our
newsletter, From the Heart. In this edition we are proud to roll out
a new design. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. If that’s true, then the montage
of photos on the cover of this redesigned newsletter speaks volumes.
In each issue, we relate a few of the stories that have so touched us over the months, yet the
words often seem inadequate to describe the feelings we hold for our family of dreamers
and those who support these dreams.
And each time I come face-to-face with these special people, I feel I have been given a gift.
Big or small, donations are equal when they come from the heart. Our donors, volunteers,
and staff all know that the place from which the giving begins, is as meaningful as the
place it ends up – in our case, fulfilling a last dream and comforting the hearts of those
dreamers. This is our gift.
As we celebrate our 15th year, I’d like to thank all of those who made year-end gifts to the
Dream Foundation. Your continued support has enabled us to reach a milestone of over
8000 dreams fulfilled since our inception.
It is pretty clear that we need your help now more than ever. The times are uncertain
economically but one certainty remains – end-of-life patients and their families count on us
to give them the gift of a final dream come true.
And we count on you. Due to the current economic downturn, we have had to make
adjustments to our budget and staffing for 2009 and we are concerned about our ability
to fund all of the dreams for those hardest hit, not only by illness, but also by these tough
times.
As we welcome the gift of spring and look forward to the warm, sunny days of summer,
think about all of the people who are gifts in your life. Please consider making a taxdeductible donation to Dream Foundation in honor or in memory of these gifts.
As for the next 15 years, we are committed to upholding our acclaimed fiscal management,
programs and services to ensure that dream dollars go toward bringing hope to the heart
of those who need us. Thank you for your support.
From the Heart,
Founder’s Flashback..................... 12
In Memoriam .............................. 13
How to Help ................................ 14
Save The Date ............................ 15
2
Thomas W. Rollerson
Founder/President
making dreams come true for adults battling life-limiting illness
Soul Food
The return on your investment.
“Before I got your life saving gift I was
sitting in my room looking at the four walls
and waiting to die. Now that I have my
wheelchair I have some of my freedom
back – enough to want to push myself to
have some kind of life. No more waiting to
die... now its trying to live. Thank You.”
Lisa, Dream Recipient
“I wanted to thank your organization for
granting my brother, Peter Alden’s wish
last year. He had been fighting leukemia
for 6 years. He had so many health
problems over the past 6 years that it had
been a constant battle for him to live life.
He worked so very hard to get his family
into a larger home and he promised his
children, with the move, he would buy
them a new swing set. Well, he went on
disability a few months later and used the
swing set money for medical bills. Your
Foundation helped. His dream was for
his children to be able to play and enjoy
life even though he was home bound.
He asked for a swing set in the backyard
where he could sit and watch them every
day and he wore the Dream Foundation
cap almost every day.
Yesterday, Peter went to heaven. He is
no longer suffering. This last week, under
hospice care, he insisted that we keep
his cap on and he requested to be buried
wearing it. My family thanks you from
the bottom of our hearts. In my brother’s
honor we have requested donations to
Dream Foundation. Now every time his
children play they can think of their father
and his wish for them to live, laugh and
play. Thank you.” Jennifer Rathbone
“It was the most wonderful gift to be able
to be there to take care of my precious
daughter during her most difficult battle.
There are not enough words to thank you.
She passed away peacefully, at home,
on February 25th.” Candace, Mother of
Dream Recipient, Carlah
“I want to thank you so much for the trip
to see my grandchild, It is the only grand
baby I have. It was the most beautiful thing
anyone has ever done for me.”
Jeannie, Dream Recipient
“We as a family were able to make so
many memories that we will hold on to
for the rest of our lives - something cancer
can’t take away. Thank you from the bottom
of our hearts for making this dream come
true.”
Angie, Sister of Dream Recipient, Joe
“Thank you so much for my eye exam and
my new glasses. I didn’t know my eyes
were so bad.”
Nanni, Dream Recipient, age 84
“I have NEVER experienced such human
generosity and love from total strangers.
It is an overwhelmingly humble time in
my life’s journey. With every ounce of
gratitude..... “
Suzanne, Dream Recipient
“Your generosity astounds me and I feel
blessed to know that someone who cares
is listening to these words, reading my last
hope. I am grateful for the angels that have
come into my life, and the promise, that
in suffering, there is hope and peace to
receive.”
June, Dream Recipient
“I am so glad that you are donating a trip.
My grandpa -that is sick- will be happy to
see me.”
Kaitlyn, Age 7
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 3
dreams come true...
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Donned in a pink sweater, cascading pink boa, a pink garland lei, pink glasses, and pink hair,
Jo, 72, sat like a ‘million dollar baby’ greeting her guests, as they arrived for the unveiling of her
newly published book of poems, “A Joy to Create”. “But, why so much pink?” she was asked.
“...Because....it’s my favorite color!”
Inside Jo’s tiny apartment in Goleta, CA., which was fashionably decorated in pink, guests arrived
(in pink) and shared stories about Jo - her wit, her sarcasm, her love of life, her dear friends and
family. It was a joyous occasion for Jo, battling breast cancer, who questioned aloud why all
this fuss was being made for her. “I’ve written poems all my life. They were stashed all over my
apartment. They were in drawers and boxes and closets - I really didn’t know what I had around
here.” Towards the end of the afternoon, Jo sat in her pink chair, sipped pink punch and recited several of her favorite poems by
memory, as her family and friends listened with love and amazement. It was, truly, a celebration of life! Included in the picture are
Dream Coordinators Barbara Schoch and Sue Anderson and a social worker from Santa Barbara Visiting Nurses and
Hospice Care.
WISH UPON A STAR
Danny is 52 years old with pancreatic cancer and lives on Orcas Island in the beautiful San
Juan Islands of Washington State. To get there, one must take a ferry or a small ‘puddle jumper’
plane. Did this stop a group of Genentech reps from delivering a Disney dream to Danny? I
should say not! Cherie Tofhagen, Molly Bissett, and Deon English donned their beautiful
princess costumes, boarded a privately owned donated plane and flew to Orcas where they met
Danny and his family. Cherie said, “...You can see how BIG Danny’s eye’s got when I showed
him the picture of where they were staying. I put together a big fun Disney bag for them and a
scrap book so they can add pictures. He was so grateful for what the Dream Foundation did for
him. He could hardly believe the generosity. Our pilot Chuck was amazing. He brought along
another man who works for him and he took a ton of pictures too. It would have been really hard to have pulled this off without
Chuck’s help, he was so gracious.” When you wish upon a star...it makes no difference WHERE YOU ARE....!!
Thank you Genentech volunteers for helping us make dreams come true.
GRANDMA’S LOVE
Jeannie, is 53, a resident of Cleveland, OK and diagnosed with terminal lung
cancer. When her case worker asked Jeannie if she had any regrets she began
to cry and said that she regretted she would not see her first newborn grandchild who
lives with his parents in Boise, ID. Dream Foundation arranged for Jeannie and her husband to fly to Boise. The photo of Jeannie with little Shane tells the whole story of a
grandmother’s love.
WARM & COZY
Anna, of Harper’s Ferry, WV is 95 years young. She has congestive heart failure.
Anna is bright and sharp and full of good humor. She proudly told us she was one of the first
Girl Scouts and has met President Franklin Roosevelt twice! Anna, although frail, still lives
alone and is in hospice care. Her house is old and drafty and she has trouble staying warm
in the winter months. Dream Foundation provided Anna with oil for the winter in addition to
working with the New York based Warrior’s Wish Foundation, Christian Youth
Corps and the local Faith Baptist Church, who arranged for a new airtight door to be
installed in her home. Her home is now heated with love.
4
making dreams come true for adults battling life-limiting illness
a special dream ambassador
Jenni
Excerpt from Tom’s travel journal...
On February 18th, I walked into the church next to the home of 23-year-old dream recipient Jennifer Hargis
in rural Bow, WA. Jenni has end-stage bladder cancer. Her father, Richard, is the church pastor. A gifted
orator, Richard struggled for words and choked with emotion, he put his arms around his wife, Ruth, and said
“Nothing prepares one for this, not even my work. Someone said take it day by day, but it’s more like minute
by minute.”
Then he said, “Together, we want to thank everyone that makes the Dream Foundation possible – for what you
have done for our daughter. We don’t have much to give but do want to give our voices to carry on the legacy
of Jenni’s advocacy to help make dreams come true for others.” My heart felt like it would explode.
Super sweet, endearing and bright eyed Jenni, who despite her jaundice and sunken expression, looks
breathtakingly beautiful, with a smile that fills the room and eyes that show her stunning spirit. Her liver is
failing now, but we were able to visit together for about 5 hours. We were even able to get Jenni out for a
short drive through towering pines to watch the sun set over Puget Sound. We looked through photos and
mostly reminisced about her dream, as Jenni, one-by-one, recounted every name and face that she had met
through Dream Foundation.
“Do you want to pray together”, she asked. Jenni invokes in me closeness to God. I thanked God for the gift
of love I was blessed to share with the Hargis family and I thanked God for bringing Jenni into my life and into
the lives of all those whose lives she has touched. I asked God to comfort Jenni’s family and all of those who
care for her. I also gave thanks for the lovely meal Ruth had prepared for us.
Jenni prayed, “Thank you God for surprising me today with Tom’s visit.” Then her voice broke with emotion
– “and bless all of the people I met through Dream Foundation and let them know how
much I love them and thank you for sending them into my life”.
Jennifer Faith Hargis, was 22 years old when she passed away on March 9, 2009-after battling cancer
for the third time-the first when she was just 9 days old! She was a remarkably brave young woman who
enriched the world with wisdom beyond her years and had the insight and intelligence to maximize every
moment she spent on earth.
Jenni is one of the thousands of adults Dream Foundation has worked with in the past 15 years. It has been
my joy and pleasure to meet with many of them and to see, first hand, what a final dream granted has meant
to them and to their families. The work of all of us here at Dream Foundation has nothing to do with sadness or
sorrow and everything to do with life and valuing every moment of it. Please help us continue.
From the Heart,
Thomas W. Rollerson
Postscript: Jenni passed away two months ago. A few weeks later we received a check for $500 from her
savings account. Jenni wanted this money to be used to make dreams come true for others like her. Together
with Jenni’s parents, we are using this money to start the Jenni Fund to facilitate dreams for young adults
18-35. We cannot imagine a more fitting tribute to this inspiring young woman.
For more information on the Jenni Fund, go to www.dreamfoundation.org.
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 5
&
above
beyond
Every day wonderful people go “above & beyond” to help make dreams come true.
We can’t list them all - but here are just a few....
Two of the many good folks that our friend and supporter, Marjoe
Gortner, introduced to Dream Foundation are the lovely actress Mimi
Rogers and her husband, Chris Ciaffa. Mimi has lent her voice as a
spokesperson dozens of times and also introduced us to our Corporate
Partners and volunteers at Genentech. Thank you, Mimi, for blessing us
with your heart, compassion, talent and business acumen.
Mimi Rogers
The Scooter Store owned by Doug Harrison, has provided over 100
power chairs to dream recipients, free of charge. Mary Armbruster
has been our very compassionate and supportive contact and she is truly
one of our angels.
Tim & Margie Sullivan have been consistent supporters since 1996
as Dream Maker Circle members.
Becky Crews & The 4C’s Nursery of Palm Bay, FL, provided over
$12,000 in plants, supplies and labor to rebuild a dream recipient’s
garden and patio.
Mary Armbruster
Deb Leopold
Deb Leopold of Washington D.C., president of First Class, Inc., has
consistently, since 2000, donated a portion of her business proceeds to
help make dreams come true. Her loyalty & support are deeply
appreciated.
Employees of Colony Capital in Los Angeles hosted a Holiday Wrap
Party and wrapped and shipped toys and gifts to the young children of
dream recipients.
Dan and Jackie Encell have been members of Dream Makers Circle,
contributing regularly since 1999.
Bob Swartz and Rob Hancock, found Dream Foundation’s website
in 2003 and instantly adopted 3 dreams. They have been generous and
steady contributors ever since.
Golden Bridge Community Choir Maggie Wheeler and Emile
Hassan Dyer of the Gold Bridge Community Choir honored the memory of
Sheri Norwood with a concert in Los Angeles in December 2008, along
with Sheri’s mother Susan Jefferson. Sheri passed away in September
2008 of cancer. Proceeds from the concert were donated to Dream
Foundation in the name of Sheri Norwood.
Colony Capital
6
making dreams come true for adults battling life-limiting illness
Diana Wilson, accepted the Chair of Dream Foundation’s Development
Committee and joined the Legacy Dream Circle. Kirsten and Richard
Weston Smith are serving as Co-Chairs of the Dream Foundation
Marketing Committee. Victor Woo, V.P. & General Manager of
Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage generously provides
accommodations for dream recipients and is a member of the Desert
Dream Advisory Board.
Vince and Marni Otte, proprietors of Barrister Executive Suites donate
office space for our Los Angeles Office. Thank you, Vince and Marni, for
your generous in-kind support.
Victor Woo
Kevin Brockman, Executive Vice President, Global Communications
at Disney-ABC and Brad Jamison, Vice President, Corporate Initiatives
at Disney ABC Television, are generous donors. Both have provided
Dream Foundation with difficult to acquire set visits for shows like “Lost” &
“Desperate Housewives” which we then auction to raise funds for dreams.
They have also sent gift packages to dream recipients.
Kevin Brockman
corporate partner program
Genentech, a leading biotechnology company, with facilities
across the country, has partnered with Dream Foundation to create
a volunteer program for interested employees. On February 14,
2007 an email went out to a group of volunteers asking if someone
was available to make a Valentine’s Day delivery to a dream
recipient in Germantown, TN. Within thirty minutes, a Genentech
volunteer was on his way, flowers in hand. Since that day, 159
Genentech employees have volunteered to deliver dreams across
the country. Armed with balloons and candy the volunteers make
the delivery of a dream request an extraordinary experience. Some
even dress as movie stars or Disney characters when delivering a
dream. To date, Genentech volunteers have assisted with 121
dream requests, across the nation. One volunteer said, “ I had the
opportunity to sit with the dream recipient and his family for an
hour or so as he took me on the journey through his life as a cancer
patient. I went in as a person wanting to give something back
and make a difference in the world, but I came out with so much
more. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of such a fantastic
organization and helping make dreams come true.”
Genentech volunteers: Annette Schautz and Rachael Hoake
If your company is interested in working with Dream Foundation please contact us at 805-564-2131.
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 7
2008events
June
May
Long time supporters. Richard,
Susan and Chandler Lutz,
hosted the 7th Annual Angel
Ball at their spectacular estate
in Moorestown, New Jersey for
a delighted crowd of 300. The
annual event always includes
dazzling talent, a live auction
and proceeds benefit the work of
Dream Foundation.
2009 Angel Ball
Saturday,
May 16, 2009
Chandler Lutz
8
Diane Warren’s incredible
Hollywood home was the setting
for our annual L.A. Dream Maker’s
Circle Reception to thank donors
who have adopted a dream.
Guests enjoyed the music of Jessi
Collins, American Idol’s Brooke
White and rock & roll icons
Jack Blades & Don Felder.
Joely Fisher, was mistress of
ceremonies and Kevin Nealon,
a hilarious auctioneer. Thank you
to the many other celebrities who
supported the event. Sponsors
of this event included Harman
International, Wells Fargo,
Absolut 100, Makers Mark,
Barrister Executive Suites,
Hope Bailey, Alex Alexander
and Alex Events. Special thanks
to Diane Warren and Michael
Anthony.
July
Dream Foundation’s Marin
Advisory and Event
Committee hosted its 2nd
annual, Visions of Dreams event
at the Marin Country Club. This
sellout gala included an incredible
live auction and performance by
“Unauthorized Rolling Stones”.
An extraordinary group of
women made the event a fantastic
success, they are: MaryAnn
Casler, Christine Miller,
Maggi Morgenlaender,
Maria Sebastiano, Dorothy
Manson, Nikki Gelardi,
Elaine Macaluso and Susan
Federighi.
The Quail Lodge in Carmel,
CA was the venue for a Mothers
Day event benefiting Dream
Foundation. Quail Lodge’s parent
company, The Hong Kong
& Shanghai Hotels Ltd.
became a partner in 2007 when
Paul Tchen, Vice President of
Operations & Support learned
about our work.
making dreams come true for adults battling life-limiting illness
September
The Montecito estate of Dream
Foundation supporters Debbie
& Dan Kass, provided the
dramatic setting for the Santa
Barbara Dream Makers Circle
Reception. One hundred and fifty
Dream Makers and guests enjoyed
cocktails and spectacular ocean
views. This annual thank you event
for supporters featured Brooke
White and Kevin Nealon who,
once again, graciously lent their
special talents. Sponsors included
Tiffany & Co., Wells-Fargo,
Absolut 100, Makers Mark,
West Coast Athletic Clubs,
Clay & Sally Dickens, Wells
Hughes, the JWS Group of
Merrill Lynch, Bryant & Sons,
American Airlines, Brophy
Brothers, Jerry Peddicord
& S.R Hogue, Hope Bailey,
Classic Party Rentals and the
ever generous hosts, Debbie &
Dan Kass.
October
The Seventh Annual First Ladies of the Dream Foundation Fashion Show,
our signature event, held each year at the gorgeous Bacara Resort &
Spa in Santa Barbara, featured iconic designs of designer Valentino.
Legendary musical entertainment was provided by Kenny Loggins,
along with additional performances by American Idol finalist, Michael
Johns, violinist Lili Hadyn, acrobatic duo, Realis and vocalist Erin
Hamilton. A live auction was conducted by the incomparable Layla
Khashoggi and Dream Foundation Ambassador and Founding
Ambassador Priscilla Presley and Kathy Ireland were inspiring
speakers. The event was held for the first time, in the evening, so that
gentlemen could attend. This event was sponsored by Harman/
Kardon, Mercedes-Benz and Wells Fargo.
Genentech employees in Chicago
hosted A Party With A Purpose
and raised funds for dreams. 250
happy people danced to live music
at 115 Bourbon Street. Planners
and Hostesses were Mary Beth
Jarka, Debbie McKeague and
Kristie Traverso.
Our deepest appreciation to all of the event sponsors and to the guests
who came to provide support. Look to your email and our website for
announcements of future events.
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 9
LEGACY
OF DREAMS
CIRCLE
Estate of
Dr. Richard Cazen
The Charlotte Doyle Davis Revocable Trust
These are forward looking donors who
have helped to secure a Legacy of
Dreams by including Dream Foundation
in their estate plans.
Estate of Tracy Greene
Thomas Rollerson & Michael Erickson
Marilyn Cole-Schatz
Kenneth & Elizabeth Slaught
Diana Wilson
For information about the Legacy of Dreams Circle
and Dream Foundation’s Endowment Fund
please contact Dream Foundation
at 805-564-2131.
CONGRATULATIONS!
A BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL! Congratulations to
Leighton Hale, for joining the family of Jennifer
Smith Hale and Nick Hale! Mom Jennifer is
Publisher of Santa Barbara Magazine and
doting grandmother is Santa Barbara’s beloved
Anne Smith Towbes.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHRIS
A Dream Foundation supporter since Dream
Foundation’s very early days, Chris Edgecomb, CEO
of Sirius Television, is celebrating the big 50! Happy
Birthday, Chris and thank you for your many years of
caring, and generosity.
STAFF
Thomas W. Rollerson
Founder/President
Carol Brown
Chief Operating Officer
Sue Anderson
Dream Department Manager
Cindy Hellriegel
Finance Manager, part-time
Megan Higgins
Dream Coordinator, part-time
Jacqueline Kronberg
Grants Manager, part-time
Adam Lichtenstein
Manager Internet Technologies
WOMEN IN FILM/TELLY AWARDS
Amanda Moselle
Donor Relations Manager
Jennifer Muir
Receptionist
“The Garden”, a public service announcement produced pro bono, by
Women In Film’s Los Angeles Productions Program for Dream Founda-
Michelle Reid
Dream Coordinator
tion, has won a 2008 Telly Award. We were honored to be chosen
by Women In Film and are now doubly honored by this prestigious
award. The Telly Awards receives 13,000 entries annually from all 50
states and countries around the world. The Awards showcase the best
work of the most respected producers of television content. Thank you,
Women In Film, for this generous gift of time and caring and thank you
Sonia Salazar
Data Entry Specialist, part-time
Barbara Schoch
Dream Coordinator, part-time
to the talented group who did the work: Tobie Loomis, Director & CoWriter, Roxanne Lane, Executive Producer & Co-Writer,
Elizabeth (Tiggie) McKenzie, Producer, Christina Fiers, Cinematographer, Chris Dawson, Visual Effects Producer and Gerry Wormser, Casting Director.
Watch the video at www.dreamfoundation.org
10
making dreams come true for adults battling life-limiting illness
Jackie Waddill
Programs Manager
DREAMS
ROCK!
Two and half years after marrying his wife, and best friend, in
the Graceland Chapel in Las Vegas NV, Chris, was diagnosed
with metastatic colon cancer. At only 33 years of age, doctors
expect that he has 3 months or less to live. Chris has always had
a love for music - it is his passion. He especially loves to play the
drums and his favorite musician is Tommy Lee of the Motley Crue
Tommy Lee and Chris
who he dreamed of experiencing a “jam session” with. Chris’
dream came true with the help of Dream Foundation when he, his
wife Kyla, and Kyla’s parents drove from their home in Milford,
OH to Erie, PA to attend a Motley Crue concert at the Erie Civic
Center. Greeted by Tommy Lee, in his personal tour bus and taken to dinner, their rock star evening began. Back stage, before the concert,
Chris, his wife, and family met the rest of the Crue and watched as the Erie Civic Center filled with excited rock fans. During the show, Chris
stood behind Tommy Lee’s drums so Chris could experience what it was like to be a true rock star. Between encores Tommy Lee ran off stage
and gave Chris a big hug. “It was like they were long lost brothers separated at birth,” said his wife, “This was definitely Chris’ greatest
night!” After the show, Tommy Lee gave Chris his snare drum that he played on tour last year and said, “...You’ve got to fight this thing
brother...” When asked how he felt about his dream Chris quietly said, “It was beyond anything we could have imagined...”
CLASS
ACT!
DREAM FOUNDATION
HAS WISHES TOO!
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers mended the heart of Dream
Recipient Kandy, a long-time fan
of the group. Tom Petty not only
agreed to meet Kandy, age 49
from Flat Rock, MI battling breast
cancer and mother of two grown
Tom Petty and Kandy
children, but he rallied his fellow
members, Mike Campbell, Benmont Tench, Ron Blair, Scott Thurston and Steve
Ferrone, all of whom were on tour and made special travel arrangements to
reunite in Kandy’s honor.
Here are a few of the things we need and
wish for....
Meeting in their private “clubhouse,” they spent more than an hour sitting
and talking, while Kandy recounted detailed memories of concerts and songs
that impacted her life. Then, to the surprise of all, Tom and the band members
reached for their instruments and jammed for Kandy. Her private concert
lasted more than an hour.
• New, Unwrapped Toys for the Children
Founder Tom Rollerson said that in his 15 years of participating in Celebrity
and Dream Meet & Greets, it was one of the most generous gifts of time he’d
seen. As for Kandy, she said it was “beyond any dream I could have imagined—’thank you’ is not enough.”
• Frequent Flyer Mile Donations
• New Laptop Computers
• Flat Screen Televisions
• Gift Cards from WalMart, Target, Kmart
• Disposable Cameras
of Dream Recipients
• Volunteers for dream management, office administration and public relations
For further information please call us at
805-564-2131 Thank You!
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 11
FOUNDER’S
FLASHBACK
When you are part of something that benefits from countless acts of giving, you can’t
help but relive—in a vivid way—these acts of kindness. The memories don’t depend on a
dollar amount; every gift is precious. They are shaped by the circumstances of the moment
and the spirit of the giving. In this new section, the team is generously giving me space to
reflect on some of the folks that have enabled us to exist today. We will never forget those
who have chosen to give of their hearts.
- Thomas
unforgettable
I’m one of the lucky ones who can say I met actor-turned-philanthropist Paul Newman. (And saying that is so non-Newman, for he was a humble man.) Yet I can’t help but share
my experience with a philanthropist whose impact was so
significant, that it forever left an impression on my life.
You see, from 2004 to 2006, Dream Foundation was selected by PacificCare Insurance to benefit from their sponsorship of the Newman/Haas Racing Team’s CART races. At the
kick-off race in Long Beach I was invited to speak. Needless to say, with Mr. Newman in
the audience, I was feeling rattled. But thankfully the importance of our cause overcame
the anxiety of the moment, and I managed to speak from the heart. Upon returning to my
seat, Mr. Newman stood up to personally pledge a gift! I’ll never forget it.
We were invited to bring a dream family to each of the races. While there, Mr. Newman,
along with our Honorary Board of Governors member Howard Phanstiel, our Medical
Advisory Board Member Sam Ho, and Dream Makers Circle Member Riva Gebel, often
presented us with a contribution. What touched me the most was that despite being pulled
in every direction, Mr. Newman always spent generous amounts of time with our dream
families.
Needless to say the cash contributions elicited equal parts of excitement and relief. But
the emotional impact he had on me, and far more importantly our families, is harder to
describe. When you race so hard to cross each dream’s finish line, and then this legendary philanthropist supports you like the wind at your back, the momentum drives you to
succeed. Although his passing means the monetary contributions may not continue, his
gifts will continue to deliver ample inspiration for us to stay in the race.
Paul Newman was an inspiration and will be sorely missed by all of us who try to do well
by doing good. - Thomas
thank you hospice workers
It was the work of a few hospice workers in our hometown of Santa Barbara that inspired
me to want to help those at the end of life’s journey. Initially I wanted to be a patient advocate, knowing that very ill patients cannot navigate the complex, emotional last journey
on their own. They need someone to advocate on their behalf. However, one of the first
things one learns in care giving is to listen and, as I listened, I heard the heart pain of
dreams and wishes unfulfilled and thought, I can help with that!
Hospice workers are many things to their patients, among them, advocates and dream
makers. Dream Foundation has formalized the process, but hospices have been doing it for
years. When a request is not within the ability of the hospice to fulfill, Dream Foundation is
available to step in and help.
GRANTS
Dream Foundation,
its Board of Directors,
Executives and Staff,
are very grateful to the
foundations that generously
supported its work in 2008.
They are:
B & B Foundation
Burns McCabe Foundation
Capital Group Companies
Roy E. Crummer Foundation
Max & Victoria Dreyfus Foundation, Inc.
Genentech Foundation
Hammond Family Fund
Linden Family Foundation
Merrill Lynch & Co. Foundation, Inc.
Montecito Bank & Trust
Newman’s Own
Odyssey VistaCare Hospice Foundation
Office Depot Foundation
Rotary Club of Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Bank & Trust
Towbes Foundation
Venoco
Diana Warren Foundation
Wood Claeyssens Foundation
The work of Dream Foundation
is funded, in part, by a grant from
the Odyssey VistaCare
Hospice Foundation
We here at Dream Foundation are proud to honor hospice workers everywhere
and to serve as an extension of the palliative care programs that hospices provide
nationwide.
- Thomas
12
making dreams come true for adults battling life-limiting illness
A GOOD FRIEND
in memoriam
Dream recipients in memoriam
04-01-08 through 03-31-09
We met Stella Keane when we were
given the opportunity to participate in the
Celebrity Sports Invitationals produced by
Marjoe Gortner. Stella was Marjoe’s “right
hand gal” and Supervising Producer of the
Invitationals. She was a beautiful, athletic
South African who truly believed in our
work and she never stopped advocating
for Dream Foundation. We will always
remember Stella’s adventurous spirit, her
fearlessness and determination, her softer
side, poise, grace and infectious smile.
She lost her life doing something that gave
her life - skiing. She is forever one of our
Angels and the world is forever a better
place because of Stella’s inspiration and
accomplished work on behalf of countless
charitable organizations.
All of us here at Dream Foundation will
miss Stella’s inspiration.
“Do not stand at my grave
and weep.
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds
that blow.
I am the diamond of glints
on snow.
I am the sunlight
on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the
mornings hush, I am the swift
uplifting rush of quiet birds in
circling flight.
I am the soft star that shines
at night.
Do not stand at my grave
and cry.
I am not there. I did not die.”
- Anonymous quotation
Brenda Aberle
Faith Adams
Ruth Adams
Peter Alden
Cody Aldrich
Gail Alexander
Maude Alexander
Raymond Alexander, Jr.
Teri Alvarado
Linda Anderson
Andreas W. Armbrust
Charles W. Armiger Jr.
Rebecca Atlasy
David Bachelder
Gilbert Bader
Laurie Barnes
Vickey Barrett
Raymond C. Baxter Jr.
Leon Beard
Wilbur Berthelot
James Boots
Janet Bordages
Lillie J. Brantley
John Bray
George M. Brennan Sr.
Noe Brito-Macedo
Lois Buffalow
Billy Burke
David Bushong
Reba Butler
Ines Cabrera
John J. Caffrey III
James Cappetta
William Carder
Susan Carichner
Creig Carlentine
Rick W. Carlson
Debra Kay Carpenter
Judy Carrier
Cellie Carter
Ruth Cedeno
Charles Christian
Theresa Christiansen
Mildred Cobble
Robert A. Collins
John Conner
Lynda Cool
Gary D. Cooper
Jesus Correa
Tina Crespo
Talia Crowder
Migdalia Cruz
Richard Cummings
Henrietta Curry
Thomas Louis Daly
Robert “Boone” Daniels
Karen Daskam-Canaday
Eddie Davis
Joann M. Dean
Sheryl Defendorff
Leah DeGuire
Tina Dennehy
Jarad Dettmann
Mamie DeVita
Gabriela Dho
Leroy Dickson
Filigata Drake
Sharon Drapal
Richard Lee Ecker
Nicasio Estrada
Carolyn Farmer
Linda Fee
Dionne M. Flowers
Richard Foss
Michael Foster
Charles G. Foster
Angie Fry
Takako E. Fujita
Robert H. Funke Sr.
William Furst
Amelia Gaines
Harvey Gamble
John Gardner
Eric Gates
Leona Geller
Mary Gentry
Eugene Getchell
Martha Gladish
Robert Golden
Transito Gomez
Guadalupe Gonzalez
Randall Gosnell
Annette Hope Gothard
Peggy Goudeau
Shirley Grecian
Albert Greene
Megan Griffith
Janine Grubbs
Richard Haff
Pearl Haggerty
Kathleen Hale
Lee Hall
Joy Denise Ham
Jean Hamlin
Beverly A. Hardwick
Jennifer Hargis
Pamela J.K. Heinrich-Stephenson
Sergio Hernandez
Fred D. Hildebrand
Sam Hindsman
Charles “Chuck” Hodgdon
Jr.
Trena Hollins
Roger Hollis
Lynette Holtzclaw
Andrew Horn
Louis Houmis
Alfred Howard
Michaeleen Howatt
Burton Howell
Madelyn “Maddy” Huffman
Mable Hughes
Steven Hughes
Patricia Inskeep
Robert Jernigan
Stephanie Johnson
Mary L. Johnson
Johnnie Jones
David Jones
Kyle Anthony Keith
John King
Bobby Dale Kinsey
Christine J. Koth
Alvin P. Krieger
Stacey L. LaFrenz
Heather M. Land
Joseph Lanzello
Wallace Lary
Walter Laster
Walter Lawrence
Terence Lawson
Ashley Lees
Daniel L. Lesperance
Frank N. Lewis
John Lewis
Sharon Linton
Robert Loebe Jr.
Lee Logan
Lawrence Maurice Long
Kevin Longo
Guadalupe Lopez
Robert Lopez
James Lotz
John Lougheed
Katherine A. LuedkeAdkins
Amalia Macias-Sanchez
William T. Maher
James L. Mallon
Alfred E. Martin
Salvador Martinez
Monica MartinezLagda
Carolyn D. Mathews
John Mauldin
Denise Maynard
Stacey McDaniel
Willis McElroy
Barbara McGray
Russell McGuire
Jim McHale
Robert McKenzie
Sharon Meeks
Bobby S. Miller
Mary Clark Millikan
Mary Clark Millikan
Vickie Millikan
Jennifer Moore
Lena Moran
John Morris
Richard Mount
Jimmy Nations
James A. Nelson
Wanda Nickell
Sheri Norwood
Eric Olsen
Maria del Socorro
Ortiz
Tessa Pangle
Rickie Parker
April Pawlak
Bryan Payne
Kenneth L. Petersen
Karen Phillips
R. V. Pickett
Charlsie Pileggi
Ella Pince
Ethel Pittman
Robert E. Pollack Jr.
Taressa Price
Beebe Queenan
Gary B. Quinley
Ronald Randolph
Sylvia Raptis
Robert Rasmussen
Mark Rasmussen
Kendal Reynolds
David Lee Richards
John W. Rideout
Elbert Ritchie
Arelane Roberts
Delmar C. Roberts
Ronald Rodenbough
Ann Rowland
Brooke Rye
Rosario P. Saldivar
Michael W. Sanders
Paul P. Santoro
Herb Satterfield
Patrick Schar
Stephanie Schon
Albert Schultz
Bob Schwingler
Patricia Scott
John Scott
James Scruggs
Chad Sears
Dwight E. Senig
Cherry Sheaffer
Anita Shellarbarger
Turcia “Susie” Shirts
Rosina Shultz
Lenora Silva
Dorothy S. Sims
Clifford Sims
Kenneth Smith
Linda Smith
Janice Smith
Marie Smith
Willie L. Smith
Edna Smith
Terry Smrt
Nancy Snipes
Robin Snyder
Bob Spann
Donna Spell
Eric Spencer
Angela Spencer
Blanche Spillane
Monica Spontarelli
Wallace “Wally” Stabell
Anthony Stanzoni
Joe Stapleton
Lawrence McKee Stevens
Joe Stewart
Clifford Stewart
Daniel Stout
Elizabeth Tejada
Kristi Thompson
Andy Thompson
Howard Timson
Jeff Titus
Gary Tompkins
Suzanne Touchet
Denise Townsend
Betty Trabue
Paul Tucker
Betty Turner
Timothy S. Turpin
Celia Uranga
David VanBremen
Jo Vander Voort
San Juana Perez Varela
Sandra Vargas
Matthew Velarde
Robert Vielhaber
Thomas Vogt
Sharilee Warner
David Washington
Michelle Wesley
David L. Whitcomb
Howard White
Norman Vincent Whitfield
Brian Wick
Donald Williams
Jay E. Williams
Jonathan Willis
Arthur Winter
Sarah Woods
Hollis N. Wright Jr.
Jeff Zastrow
Jimmy Zollar
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 13
HOW TO HELP
✓
QUOTE FROM LONG TIME DONOR
“I first learned of the Dream Foundation in the July, 1998 issue of People magazine the
article was called “Wishful Thinker.” I was so moved and completely touched by the
story. I believe in Dream Foundation’s vision and that’s why I’ve been contributing to
-Todd Nguyen.
this cause since 1998.”
DREAM FOUNDATION’S MOST RECENT
AUDIT INDICATES THAT 86% OF DONATIONS
ARE SPENT DIRECTLY ON OUR DREAM
GRANTING PROGRAM.
You can give to Dream Foundation and know that
your gift is being used exactly as you wish.
Donations to Dream Foundation, a 501©(3) agency,
are 100% tax deductible
✓ DREAM MAKER’S CIRCLE
With a
donation of $1,000 or more you can make a dream
come true for an adult at the end of life’s journey.
You will receive a detailed report about the dream
and the individual you helped. You will become a
member of the Dream Makers Circle and be honored
at the Annual Dream Makers Circle Reception. And,
you will receive invitations to Dream Foundation
events and its newsletters, both print and email.
✓ AMBASSADOR’S CIRCLE
In honor of
Dream Foundation’s 15th Anniversary in April,
2009, we have established the Ambassador’s Circle.
Your gift of $10,000 will fulfill dreams for 10 adults
who are at the end of life’s journey. You will receive
a personalized dream book detailing the dreams
you helped to make possible, you will become a
member of Dream Makers Circle, you will receive
an invitation to a dinner hosted by a Celebrity
Ambassador and invitations to all Dream Foundation
events and special recognition in printed materials.
✓ VISIONARY CIRCLE
A gift of $5,000 will
bring you into Dream Makers Circle and fulfill 5
dreams for adults at end of life. You will receive
a personalized dream story book describing the
dreams your gift helped make possible. You will
also receive invitations to all Dream Foundation
events and to the very special Dream Makers Circle
Reception, and recognition in printed materials.
✓ CASH DONATIONS
Dream Foundation
depends on all of its donors to help make final
wishes come true. Cash gifts of any size are most
welcome and very much appreciated.
✓ IN-KIND DONATIONS
For every cash
dollar Dream Foundation raises we must raise $2
to $3 in kind. If you have an in-kind resource or
know someone who does, please call us at
805-564-2131 or go to our web site at
HYPERLINK “http://www.dreamfoundation.org/”
www.dreamfoundation.org. In-kind donations
can include, but are not limited to: hotel rooms,
rental car vouchers, gift cards, restaurant meals or
vouchers, spa services. In-kind donations enable
us to keep cash costs low.
✓ DONATED AIRLINE MILES
are the
lifeblood of Dream Foundation. Without frequent
flyer miles we cannot reunite families or fulfill
dreams that require travel. United, Continental
and Northwest Airlines bank donated miles for us.
Each year we use several million miles to bring
families together. To donate please contact
Cindy Hellriegel at 805 -564-2131, ext. 105
✓ GIFTS OF STOCK
If you own appreciated
stock it is often tax wise to donate it to a charity
instead of paying capital gains tax. To donate
stock, please contact Cindy Hellriegel at 8055642131. ext.105.
✓ PLANNED GIVING
A Legacy Dream Circle
has recenty been created to recognize those who
include Dream Foundation in their estate plans.
This can be done through a provision in your
will or trust, or a beneficiary designation in an
insurance policy, IRA or retirement plan. Dream
Foundation Legacy Dream Circle members help
to endow a future in which dreams will continue
to come true for terminally ill adults and their
families. For more information or to make an
endowment gift please contact Amanda Moselle
at 310-444-3070.
✓ JOIN THE DREAM TEAM
You can help
make a dream come true and become a member
of the Dream Team with a donation of as little
as $25. You will receive our newsletter, event
invitations and information about opportunities to
be a Dream Foundation volunteer.
www.dreamfoundation.org
14
making dreams come true for adults battling life-limiting illness
SAVE THE DATE...
For Fun Events To Benefit Dream Foundation in 2009
May 16th
The 7th Annual Angel Ball,
held at a gorgeous estate in
Moorestown, New Jersey, will
again benefit making dreams come
true. This glamorous event features
wonderful food, great entertainment
and dancing.
For more information go to:
www.angelball.org
May 30th
Dream Foundation joins forces with
the Maximum Hope Foundation to
present the All-In for All Good
Celebrity Poker Tournament
at the Commerce Casino in
Commerce, California, presented
by Brad Garrett & Friends.
For more information go to:
www.dreamfoundation.org or
www.maximumhopefoundation.org
May 2nd & 3rd
Dream Foundation was the
beneficiary of the 2009 Coolest
24 Hour Mountain Bike Race
in Cool, California. Thank you to
all the riders and sponsors and
everyone who came out to show
their support of us and this very
cool event!
For more information go to:
www.globalbiorhythmevents.com
Dream Foundation
Board of Directors 2008
Jon Bull, Chairperson
Santa Barbara, CA
Senior Managing Director &
Portfolio Manager,
First Republic Investment Management
David Glickman, Vice Chairperson
Beverly Hills, CA
President & Managing Director,
Glickman Capital
Thomas Rollerson,
Santa Barbara, CA
Founder/President, Dream Foundation
Ronald R. Macleod, Secretary
Carpinteria, CA
Managing Partner, Baciu Family Capital
Richard Burnham
Mansfield, TX
Co-Founder Odyssey HealthCare
Mel Farber
Honolulu, HI
President, Creative Designs Hawaii
David Johnson
Los Angeles, CA
The Johnson-Roessler Company
Bill Kasch
Santa Barbara, CA
President & COO, IPC Media/Partner
Concepts, LLC
John F. Kelly
Coral Gables, FL
President & CEO,
John F. Kelly Associates, L.L.C
Retired Chairman and
CEO Alaska Air Group
Holly Murphy
Santa Barbara, CA
Co-Chairperson,
Santa Barbara Advisory Board
Merrily Newton
Los Angeles, CA
CFO, Entertainment Industry Foundation
A.J. Rice
Montecito, CA
Co-Founder, Software.com
Kenneth P. Slaught
Santa Barbara, CA
President, Investec, Inc.
dream foundation Spring 2009 | 15
Nonprofit
Organization
U.S Postage
PAID
Santa Barbara, CA
Permit Number 692
PARTNERS IN DREAMS
Corporate Partners
$100K and above
Events
$5K and above
Dream Partners
In Kind
We are proud to feature
some of our Corporate
Partners in Dreams as well
$50K and above
as other companies that have
graciously donated or served
as Dream Foundation event
$25K and above
sponsors. This is a partial
listing. All of our partners
and donors are listed in our
Annual Report.
Flower Donors
Airlines
www.dreamfoundation.org
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS:
1528 CHAPALA ST., SUITE 304
SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101
805.564.2131 FAX 805.564.7002
LOS ANGELES OFFICE:
11500 OLYMPIC BLVD., SUITE 400
LOS ANGELES, CA 90064
310.444.3070 FAX 310.444.3071
16
GOgreen
THINK ACT PROTECT
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