Press Releases

Enzian Honored by Disney for Helping Kids Shine

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Orlando, FL (May 18, 2012) – Walt Disney World Resort recognized Enzian as a recipient of a 2012 Disney Helping Kids Shine Grant with a $20,000 check dedicated to the KidFest Young Filmmakers’ Summer Camp, an educational program that provides a hands-on, immersive experience in the art of filmmaking. The award recognizes organizations that inspire creativity and innovation, encourage a sense of compassion for others and promote the health and well being of families.

“It is always an honor to be recognized by Walt Disney World Resort,” commented Enzian President Henry Maldonado. “We at Enzian very much appreciate their commitment to and support of our KidFest program, which opens the world of filmmaking to our children. Enzian is a nonprofit arts institution and their contribution will go far in helping our kids really shine.”

The funds awarded to Enzian will be utilized to provide camp scholarships for economically disadvantaged students and to provide all KidFest students with an unforgettable experience in filmmaking. The inspirational Young Filmmakers’ program provides children in fifth through eighth grade the opportunity to study cinematic techniques and dive into the production of independent film. Campers will create two films and present them at their World Premiere up on the big screen for family and friends at their graduation ceremony. This year’s event will run July 23 through August 3 with the graduation ceremony and world premiere of their film on August 5. For additional information, visit Enzian.org.

In addition to Enzian, organizations from Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Polk counties received grants totaling $1.5 million which represents a record for the Disney Helping Kids Shine program.

“At Walt Disney World Resort, our vision is to build on our philanthropic legacy by investing in programs that make a lasting change in our community and promote the happiness and well being of children and families”, said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “These organizations represent the best of the best”.

Walt Disney World’s philanthropic focus is on helping families meet basic needs, youth development and education. Grant recipients were chosen by a 15-member committee that included Cast Members, community leaders, government officials, educators and entrepreneurs.

About Enzian:
Enzian is Central Florida’s only full-time, not-for-profit cinema for first-run independent and international films, classic revivals, documentary features, and select family entertainment. Enzian, a member-supported organization serving the community for 27 years, is home to the internationally recognized Florida Film Festival and the Eden Bar.
For additional information:
On-line: Enzian.org
Phone: (407) 629-1088
Facebook: Facebook.com/EnzianTheater
Twitter: @EnzianTheater