The Air Canada Foundation celebrated the 35th anniversary of Dreams Take Flight in 2024, a milestone year that brought joy and magical experiences to more than 900 children across Canada.
Supported by hundreds of volunteers, the program culminated on Nov. 19 with its final flight of the year departing from Calgary. The flight whisked deserving children away to a theme park in California for a day filled with magic and unforgettable memories.
Celebrating the Dreams Take Flight 35th Anniversary: A Year of Magic
Operating across eight chapters, Dreams Take Flight began its season last spring with a flight from Halifax, followed by autumn departures from Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, and Montréal. Each trip offered children facing adversity a chance to escape their daily struggles and embrace a day filled with laughter, adventure, and cherished memories.
In the statement, Rebecca Smillie-Nedelec, Director of Community Engagement, shared:
“We had the opportunity to fly over 900 kids on unforgettable trips this season.One special moment came when 118 children signed a beach ball for our pilots as a thank-you gift, leaving them visibly emotional. It’s in these moments we see the true impact of what we do.”
Dreams Take Flight 35th Anniversary: Honoring Volunteers and Supporters
Launched in 1989 in Toronto, Dreams Take Flight has grown into a nationwide initiative supported by hundreds of active and retired Air Canada employees, external volunteers, and the Air Canada Foundation.
According to the statement, Paul Bouchard, President of Dreams Take Flight National , said:
“This year, over 1,000 children experienced a day they will never forget.Whether it was a theme park in Los Angeles or Orlando, the memories created will last a lifetime.”
Later, Bouchard emphasized the importance of the program’s supporters:
“We could not do this without the Air Canada Foundation, our volunteers, and our supporters. Now, as we celebrate 35 years, we look ahead to preparing for another incredible season in 2025.”
Bringing Dreams to Life
Dreams Take Flight is a testament to the Air Canada Foundation’s mission to improve the health and well-being of children across the country. By providing this magical experience, the program fosters hope and resilience for children facing challenges.
Later in the statement, Rebecca Smillie-Nedelec expressed her gratitude:
“A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated volunteers and Air Canada employees whose passion and commitment make this program possible. You bring magic to life every time.”
As Dreams Take Flight concludes another remarkable year, its impact continues to inspire, reminding us all that dreams really do come true.
