AREA 3 FOUNDATION
"Helping character performers prepare for their next role in life."
​OUR MISSION
Area 3 Foundation exists to enhance the life of current and former character Performers, Attendants and Captains by providing financial support for continuing education and by providing assistance to those in crisis.
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​OUR VISION
Our Vision is to help character Performers, Attendants ad Captains prepare for their next role in life.
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FROM OUR PRESIDENT
A letter from Patrick Strawbridge, President
Dear Disney Family,
It is with great honor and enthusiasm that I assume the role of President of the Area 3 Foundation. Following in the footsteps of extraordinary leaders such as Helen, Paul and Jody, I am committed to continuing their legacy and driving our mission forward.
As I reflect on my Disney experience, I am reminded of the opportunities and people who shaped the person I am today. Inclusion has always been at the core of my values, thanks to the influence of Joel Strack, Rose Justice, Clay Rivers, Irv Moore and many others. Their dedication to fostering an inclusive environment has taught me the importance of embracing diversity and ensuring everyone feels valued and heard.
The joy, compassion, and chosen family I experienced from my time as a Cast Member has instilled in me a deep sense of commitment and pride. I am excited by the privilege of carrying forward the legacy of Area 3. I look forward to serving all of you, working together to achieve our shared goals, and building upon the strong foundation that has been laid by those who came before me.
Thank you for your trust and support as we embark on this new chapter together.
HOW WE STARTED
A letter from Helen (Hess) Stark, Co-Founder and Director Emeritus
I went to college in California and depended a lot on my Disney family to survive. Kellie Lawton, Scott Burkhart and Steve Birket gave me a place to stay when I was literally homeless and I am forever grateful. Other people from WDW also gave me critical support during that time and I could not have made it through college without them.
Facebook has reunited Dept 384 again and I have seen people struggling with going back to school or with an illness or crisis and I wanted to do something to help. I maintain close contact with a group of my Disney friends and it was through this handful of friends that Area 3 was born. Michelle, Jen, Carrie and Jeni offered ideas and support and Albert Divetta came up with the name and designed the logo.
Alicia Boyle, Rafael Rivera and Jody Glassman immediately and enthusiastically agreed to be the founding boards member and have brought Area 3 Foundation into existence.
It is the love that I have for the family that was formed during my stint at WDW that drove the creation of Area 3.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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​ABOUT AREA 3 FOUNDATION
Area 3 Foundation is a non-profit foundation whose focus is providing financial assistance for post-secondary education through a scholarship program to current and former Walt Disney character Performers, Attendants and Captains.
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A3F is a solely donor supported organization. If you would like to donate, please visit our donation page. If you would like to apply for a scholarship, please visit our scholarship page.
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