For 70 years, Disneyland Resort has provided joy to those who enter its gates — a commitment that further extends into Anaheim and beyond. Through its community workforce development initiative, Disneyland Resort helps to develop the workforce in Orange County through career readiness opportunities to set up students and residents for success.
As part of this commitment, the resort awards workforce development grants annually to a group of local school districts and nonprofit organizations making an impact on the future. Since 2017, the resort’s workforce development grants have provided more than $7.8 million in financial support, along with more than 4,000 hours of service from Disney VoluntEARS, to build the workforce of tomorrow. This year, the resort is contributing an additional $1 million in grants, providing local organizations the resources they need to continue their impactful work.
From Girls Inc. to My Day Counts and more, the resort is proud to support 10 Orange County organizations with financial support to continue vital programs in the community. Learn more about some of the organizations receiving this year’s grants below.
Girls Inc. of Orange County
Participants in the 2025 cohort of Girls Inc. Of Orange County pose outside of Radiator Springs Racers.
For years, Disneyland Resort has proudly supported Girls Inc. of Orange County, empowering girls in Anaheim for future success with professional development and education programs. Through the organization’s Girls Meet the Workforce Program, high school students gain experience through a professional mentorship program with leaders from The Happiest Place on Earth. The resort is excited to continue supporting Girls Inc. of Orange County with a workforce development grant, to positively change the lives of girls in Orange County and beyond.
“By providing high school girls with real-life work experience, mentorship, and the confidence to lead, we’re helping to shape the future of our workforce. We are deeply grateful to Disneyland Resort for their incredible support and commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders. Their partnership is more than just generous, it’s transformative. It is thanks to partners like Disneyland Resort that the future of the workforce looks promising,” said Mayra Martin, Senior Manager of Corporate Engagement for Girls Inc. of Orange County.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & the Inland Empire
Mentors and mentees in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & the Inland Empire smile together at the start of their program.
Through collaborating with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire’s Workplace Mentoring Program, Disneyland Resort cast members make a difference in the lives of Anaheim scholars. During their high school career, students in the program have magic maker mentors — cast members who help guide and encourage them during monthly meetings, professional development opportunities and more!
“The most rewarding part of mentoring is knowing that I am making a difference in her life and helping to shape who my mentee wants to become,” said Jennifer Santillan, a Disneyland Resort cast member and mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters.
As a recipient of a workforce development grant, Disneyland Resort is honored to continue working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire, forming mentorship relationships to last a lifetime.
“Disneyland Resort has been a longstanding partner of our agency, investing with us in Anaheim’s future and advancing economic mobility for youth in Anaheim. With this recent investment, together we’re building a local talent pipeline—high school career exploration through employer-hosted experiences, mentoring and leadership development. We are grateful to a long-time partner that doesn’t just talk about community; they build it with us,” said Sloane Keane, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire.
United Way
Participants of Orange County United Way take part in mock interviews with Disneyland Resort cast members.
Together, Disneyland Resort and Orange County United Way bring happiness to the community, making dreams a reality for students, young adults and families across Anaheim and Orange County. With a shared mission of empowering and inspiring residents, the resort has consistently worked alongside Orange County United Way, for many years — from hosting mock interviews to business etiquette presentations with cast members and more. Through this year’s grant, the resort is honored to continue supporting individuals in the community, inspiring them to dream big.
“Disneyland Resort’s generous support of Orange County United Way’s United for Student Success initiative is helping ensure that students from Anaheim, Savanna, and Magnolia High Schools graduate ready for life after high school, including college, career and beyond. Through its support of career-focused education and experiences, this grant reinforces school partnerships and broadens students’ horizons by exposing them to opportunities they might never have known were possible,” said Sergio Contreras, Orange County United Way’s Executive Director of United for Student Success.
My Day Counts
My Day Counts program participants smile at their high school graduation.
Inclusivity is key at Disneyland Resort, ensuring all who come to The Happiest Place on Earth feel welcome. This sentiment extends into the community where, alongside My Day Counts, the resort invests in programs for people with disabilities, as they enter adulthood and navigate the workforce. By preparing participants with personal and professional skills, My Day Counts aims to bridge community with independence.
“My Day Counts gave me the support to earn my high school diploma and the confidence to keep going even when it was challenging,” said Ivis Mayorga, a program participant.
The resort is excited to continue its support of this inspiring organization, with a grant to support the Workforce Development Initiative, which prepares adults with disabilities by building professional skills and gaining valuable experiences for their future careers.
“Our partnership with Disneyland Resort supports our Workforce Development Initiative, which prepares adults with disabilities to succeed in the workforce and compete alongside their non-disabled peers,” said Mike Galliano, CEO & President of My Day Counts. “While earning a high school diploma is one important step, the initiative also provides training, mentorship, and real-world experience to help participants build the skills, confidence, and independence employers are looking for. Together, we are leveling the playing field and creating a more inclusive and accessible community.”