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Don’t Watch Me Play Spreads The Love During Dreamscape’s Valentine’s Day Charity Stream
Don’t Watch Me Play Spreads The Love During Dreamscape’s Valentine’s Day Charity Stream
According to motivational speaker Ken Blanchard, “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.” I believe if this was true that many of us would be skipping breakfast. Receiving feedback is not typically something that is welcomed with open arms, unless you are Cory Campion that is. “Feedback is absolutely always appreciated,” he shared. “I have no problem talking about it and trying to work towards bettering the channel and bettering myself as an entertainer.” Campion, better known as Don’t Watch Me Play, is a YouTuber and Twitch Streamer who believes people are always growing and can always change for the better, himself included. “Being myself and being genuine to everyone who comes by is just always something that I have wanted to be,” Don’t Watch Me Play stated.Welcome to the Kingdom
Cory was inspired to start his own YouTube Channel playing video games after participating in the web series, The Gauntlet. On YouTube, Cory was originally known for playing a lot of rage games and his unwavering devotion to play until he won earned him the nickname the Stubborn King and his community the Stubborn Kingdom. “Two years later I just really wanted to branch out more, and my main mission was to try and get the channel to grow,” he recalled.Time For Some Ice Breakers
The goal of joining Twitch was not only to grow in numbers, but to become more personable. “Twitch was more of an opening to just play video games and look at the camera because the chat is lined up perfectly behind it,” Cory described. “I can actually look at you and speak to you at the same time, so it was more of a mutual conversation between me and you while we are all in the chat.” The streaming website allowed the Stubborn King to talk and be interactive with his kingdom. “There is nothing cooler than almost feeling like you are actually hanging out with all these people,” he described. “When you are playing a horror game together you can actually interact and enjoy that jump scare together and talk about it”“If You’re Not Having Fun, You’re Doing Something Wrong.” – Groucho Marx
From YouTube to Twitch, Don’t Watch Me Play’s mission to bring joy and entertainment to viewers has remained the same. The goal is for everyone to have a great time and to feel included. “As long as the viewer is having an amazing time, whether they are there for five minutes or if they are there for seven to eight hours that’s what it really comes down to,” Cory confessed. “As long as you can really have fun that’s all that matters to me and that’s all I ever want.” For the Stubborn King, there is nothing he enjoys more than hanging out with his community. “I just want to be amongst my friends and newcomers, and that’s a heck of a driving point of the streaming is the community,” he shared.Valentine’s Day Charity Stream
Dreamscape Foundation in honored to partner with Don’t Watch Me Play for a Valentine’s Day Charity Stream this Sunday, February 14, from 1 pm – 8 pm EST. Join the Stubborn King and the Stubborn Kingdom to raise money to improve the lives of individuals living with physical disabilities. Get ready to expect the unexpected with this variety streamer. In his own words, “Grab the crown, celebrate, do some muscle kisses, just have a great time. You know what I mean? You just got to have fun with it.” « PreviousNext »Serreph is Dreamscape’s Own Guardian Angel for Charity Stream
Serreph is Dreamscape’s Own Guardian Angel for Charity Stream
To quote the great Dr. Seuss, “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” For Brian Martin standing out was not always that simple. “I have the most common legal name in the world, so much so that there are twenty-six people with my first and last name in my city,” Brian Martin explained. Martin may not stand out in his Missouri town, but in the world of streaming he is one of a kind.Guardian Angel
Martin, better known by his call name Serreph, is not your typical gamer. To truly understand Brian Martin, you need to understand the story behind the name Serreph. “Whenever I got into executive protection there were a couple instances that happened where I put myself in between the person that we were protecting and the gunfire,” he recalled. “They were like, ‘dude you are like a guardian angel, just like a Seraphim.’” The original nickname was shortened and has stuck with Martin throughout the years.Taking One for the Team
Living up to his name, Serreph has no problem taking a bullet for the good of the group. “Whenever I play first-person shooters, I am so bad that I am usually the bait for everyone else. I run out there and put myself out there to get shot while everyone else cleans up the mess behind,” he laughed. For Martin, the whole reason behind gaming is to relax and enjoy yourself. “That is the number one key. It is a game, you are supposed to be having fun,” he explained. “I do rage a lot, but most of the time the rage is for an act. I can’t really let something like that get under my skin. If it truly got under my skin, I would cut it out. Anything that bothers me that bad has got to go.”Multiple Interests
Serreph’s love of video games is just one of his many interests. “I have always been into a variety of things. I would like to start doing some cooking streams. I would also like to do video editing streams, where I teach people how to video edit,” Martin shared. At 46 years old, Serreph wants to share his experiences and knowledge with others. “That is one thing that I always take away from everything. Every day is a learning situation. Everything is a swap,” he stated.Dreamscape’s Mission Hits Home
It comes as no surprise that this jack of all trades has a passion for charities. For Serreph, Dreamscape’s Mission really struck a chord. “I know people that are quadriplegic and paraplegic. I work with people that are partially blind. One of my best friends is an international DJ and he has what is known as Retinitis Pigmentosa, so he is legally blind,” he said. “He can only see shadows in bright light. This man was an inspiration to me for many, many years because he goes out there and DJs by feel,” Martin described.First Time Charity Streamer
Dreamscape is ecstatic to announce that we are partnering with Serreph for his first ever Charity Stream this Thursday, January 21 starting at 1pm EST – and ending around 1am EST! Prepare yourself for some lively first-person shooting games, strategic puzzles and a lot of laughs during this 12-hour event. Join Dreamscape and Serreph in raising money to help those struggling with physical disabilities. « PreviousNext »SonicFanGames Hosts Charity Stream to Support Coronavirus Efforts
SonicFanGames Hosts Charity Stream to Support Coronavirus Efforts
As April is halfway past, and the summer is coming up quick, the weather is warming and the sun is shining. Kid’s should be out playing and life should be good! But as we all are aware things will be different this year. With the Coronavirus pandemic sweeping not only the US but the world, it leaves us all worrying and wondering when better days will come. In addition, shutdowns and social distancing requirements are stranding people at home and it seems as if there is nothing we can do to help. Thankfully, the amazing team at Sonic Fan Games HQ (SFGHQ) knows there are ways to help others and socialize all while staying safe! This Saturday April 18th, they will be hosting a special group charity stream event with all funds going towards supporting the Coronavirus relief efforts! In this article, we will go over all the details of the event and provide some helpful information about the virus and what you can do to stay safe!Let’s Meet Sonic Fan Games HQ and the Artists
Sonic Fan Games HQ has been around for years and is one of the largest resources for fan gaming around. Specializing in engines, sprites, music, gameplay, levels, gimmicks, and just about everything else, their community grows by the day! Additionally, every year since 2000, they have hosted the Sonic Amateur Games Expo. An online event for Sonic the Hedgehog fangame developers to chat online and to demonstrate finished and unfinished games they are developing. This year, they are taking their online event in a different direction! In response to the horrific conditions we are facing today, SFGHQ is hosting a live Charity Art Stream on their Youtube Channel with all proceeds going to Direct Relief, an organization established to aid in Coronavirus relief! On Saturday April 18th beginning at 8:30pm Eastern (7:30pm Central and 5:30pm Pacific), 4 artists will be coming together on stream to create custom doodles and drawings based on the requests of all donors! These artists include @kittzuniku, @Clark_Toons, @pics_pixels, and @Cp_Chan. For a small $5 donation any available artist will take your request and complete the drawing right then and there! Taking things a step further, for $15 they will allow you to request which artist you want specifically to bring your imagination to life! The requests do not need to be Sonic related or even gaming related, the only thing they ask is to keep all request appropriate for all audiences!!What is the Coronavirus
Coronavirus, aka COVID-19. We hear the name on every news channel nationwide, but many people still do not know exactly what it is. In short, COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can spread easily from person to person. Since the first official US case of COVID-19 in January of this year, the number has skyrocketed into the hundreds of thousands! According to the CDC, “COVID-19 is spreading from person to person in parts of the United States. Risk of infection with COVID-19 is higher for people who are close contacts of someone known to have COVID-19, for example healthcare workers, or household members. Other people at higher risk for infection are those who live in or have recently been in an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19.” The most important thing is to watch for symptoms and take measures to protect not only yourself from others but others from you, as some people may never even know they are carrying the virus!What to Look for and How to Stay Safe
The symptoms of COVID-19 can vary in severity from case to case. The most common symptoms are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, the virus (being a respiratory illness) can lead to more serious complications ranging from pneumonia to multi-organ failure, and is some cases death. But don’t let this scare you, it is important to know the worsts so we can better prepare and protect ourselves! There are a number of things you can do to keep yourself protected and minimize your chances of contracting the virus. Similar to other respiratory illnesses, the CDC recommends the following precautionary steps:- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- If possible, cover your mouth and nose area when in public with a protective cover/mask.
Current Available Treatments
Currently, there are no specific treatments for the Coronavirus. Scientists and Doctors are actively studying and researching different options to find a vaccine. Right now, the best thing medical professionals are doing to help those infected is treating the symptoms. A good number of complications and deaths that have happened are a result of severe symptoms (leading to pneumonia or organ failure) and not from the virus itself. While we all try to stay safe and push through these troubling times, it is important for us all to stay strong and remember that every little bit helps. So do what you can to protect yourself and others and when able support our medical professionals on the front lines and those battling for their lives! By taking part in events like Sonic Fan Games HQ’s upcoming charity stream are the perfect way to keep your distance while still socializing and coming together to make a difference to those in need! We hope everyone is able to tune in and check out the amazing works of art Sonic Fan Games HQ’s 4 artists will be creating! So, remember to mark your calendars for Saturday April 18th at 8:30pm Eastern (7:30pm Central and 5:30pm Pacific) and show your support in our greatest time of need! To keep up with Sonic Fan Games HQ please give them a follow and join in on their discussions on Twitter, Main Website and their open Forums Page. Written by: Nicholas Sibilia « PreviousNext »HiveQueen Takes the Throne in Dreamscape Foundation’s Next Charity Stream
HiveQueen Takes the Throne in Dreamscape Foundation’s Next Charity Stream
For Robin (HiveQueen) streaming isn’t just a hobby or a way to pass the time. It became a way to cope and adjust to a new environment. 3 years ago Robin moved from her home in west Canada to South Korea with her husband in search of new opportunities. After finding herself struggling to make friends in her new home, her husband suggested she try streaming. Robin has always enjoyed playing video games, so it seemed like a great way to meet new people with common interests while also doing something she enjoys.The Hard Working Bee
Robin has now been streaming in her spare time for the last 3 years. When Robin is not streaming, she is working at her full-time job as a teacher, or enjoying some quality “me” time. When asked what she enjoys most about streaming, Robin says that over the years her favorite part about streaming has always been getting to meet new people and build relationships with them. Twitch is all about coming together with people from all walks of life to share in their common interests, whether that be gaming or whatever you choose to stream about. Another really great thing about streaming Robin says, is the ability to help and give back.Over the years, my favorite part about streaming has always been getting to meet new people and build relationships with them.Growing up she loved to get involved with charity events in her community, but as she got older she found it increasingly more difficult to find the time to give back. Once she learned about charity streams as a way to give back, she was more than excited to take this opportunity to help. By using the connections, she has made over the years within the streaming community, she has been able to do multiple charity streams and raise not only money but also awareness for some very important causes. One thing that she wants people to know when they are watching her charity streams is that, even if you can’t afford to contribute financially, Robin makes sure everyone knows that their presence is support enough! Just by spreading the word and showing support in any way you can, you are making a difference.
Dreamscape and HiveQueen_
On Saturday February 29th beginning at 2pm (EST) Robin will be partnering with The Dreamscape Foundation to help raise funds and awareness to help get multiple visually impaired people the assistive technology they need to take back their lives! A quick message that she has for those within the disabled community… “you are not forgotten, there are so many people who will be coming together for this event and for them! If you are feeling alone or just horrible about something you have gone through, remember you are loved and cared for. You are not alone and there are people who have your back!” With giving back in mind, Robin and the Dreamscape Team put their heads together to come up with amazing prizes and giveaways as a way to say thank you to all those who donate and support the event. Based on a tier donation system, your donations will award you a number of different gifts you are sure to love! Don’t believe me? Check it out for yourself:
(please note, all prizes ship US only)- Tier 1 – $5:
- 1 Random Steam Key
- 1 Raffle entry to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- Tier 2 – $10:
- 1 Random Steam Key
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 3 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- Tier 3 – $20:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- Tier 4 – $50:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Fornite 7” Llama Loot Plush
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- 2 Raffle entries to win a $100 Amazon gift card
- Tier 5 – $100:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Fornite 7” Llama Loot Plush
- 1 Mystery Funko Pop
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- 6 Raffle entries to win a $100 Amazon gift card
- Tier 6 – $250:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Fornite 7” Llama Loot Plush
- 1 Mystery Funko Pop
- 1 World of Warcraft Official Cookbook
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- 10 Raffle entries to win a $100 Amazon gift card
- A featured article on our Blog Page
Allstar Dance Studio Supporting Naples Nonprofits
Allstar Dance Studio Supporting Naples Nonprofits
There is a new dance studio in town and they are making a name for themselves with the local nonprofits. As a way to introduce themselves and give back to the community they now call home, the talented instructors and staff at the Allstar Dance Studio Naples are connecting with local charities to orchestrate fundraisers and community outreach events. In fact, this Sunday December 1st at 6pm, the Dreamscape Foundation will be teaming up with them to put on a Holiday Dance Party event! So let’s meet our co-hosts…Dance, Dance, and more Dance
The Allstar Dance Studio in Naples views the art of dancing not just as a hobby, but as a way of life. Their friendly and knowledgeable instructors are experts in over a dozen styles of dancing. Offering both group and private lessons they have classes that fit every occasion. I had the chance to speak with one instructor, Jesse Gomez, who has been dancing nearly his entire life. Jesse explained how he came from a family of dancers. They were constantly dancing and playing music at parties and while they weren’t all professionals, it didn’t matter. Dancing was something they all loved and could share with one another. So for Jesse dancing is a true passion not just a career. So much so in fact, to this day he cannot decide on which style is his favorite. His reasoning, “I love something different about each form”. This simple statement is a perfect explanation of how each form may differ but they all have their own unique beauty and elegance. So you may be asking, what forms of dance do they teach? However, it might be easier to ask what forms they don’t teach! In total, the Studio offers lessons in 14 different styles of dance! Please see below for the complete list and description of each style:- Bachata
- Known for being the most sensual dance in the world. The movements will force you to fall in love with your partner!
- West Coast Swing
- A smooth style that is danced in a slot. The dance allows room for syncopated footwork and improvisation. It can be danced to a wide range of music including Rhythm and Blues, Country Western, Funk, Disco, Rock and Pop.
- Viennese Waltz
- Characterized by its speed (faster than Waltz), as well as its rise, fall and sway (less than Waltz). With its elegance and turns, Viennese Waltz has an air of magic about it.
- Samba
- The national dance of Brazil, which is meant to be danced solo in celebration or pride. However, in the US it has evolved into a couple’s dance performed in most ballroom settings.
- Merengue
- Merengue is the national dance of the Dominican Republic. Musically, it has links with Cuba but the dance belongs to the island of Hispaniola.
- Mambo
- Known for being a fast and spicy dance characterized by strong Cuban motion, staccato movement and expression of rhythm through the body.
- Cha Cha
- Originated in Cuba and evolved from a slow version of Mambo called “Triple Mambo”.
- East Coast Swing
- An energetic, fast dance, usually done with triple steps and rock steps to Big Band or contemporary music that ‘swings’.
- Hustle
- This rapid, high energy swing dance can be coupled with any upbeat, fast-paced music from any genre or era.
- Tango
- Born in the slums of Buenos Aires in the late 19th century from a mixture of different cultural rhythms and steps, it is known for being a highly passionate dance.
- Rumba
- Best characterized as a sensual dance that is to be accompanied by romantic music.
- Foxtrot
- This smooth and elegant dance has become a very popular Ballroom dance with beginners and advanced dancers alike.
- Salsa
- Known best for being a truly great club dance, one that is fun, accessible, sexy, and constantly evolving with each new generation.
- Waltz
- This is the granddaddy of all ballroom dances, and set the standard for various forms to follow.
Making a grand entrance
Being the new kid in town is never easy. Making introductions and trying to show people who you are can be even more difficult. That is why the Allstar Dance Studio decided to take a different approach when opening up in Naples, FL. They put the community first and contacted the Dreamscape Foundation, as well as a number of other local nonprofits looking to help. They offered to host an event for each to help raise funds or provide a fun night of entertainment to the people they serve. The Allstar Dance Studio team believes highly in helping those in need and being active members of the community and we are proud to welcome them!Holiday Dance Party Details
Open to all and sure to be a night you won’t want to miss, the Dreamscape Foundation and Allstar Dance Studio will be hosting a Holiday Dance and Pizza Party event! This Sunday December 1st, the festivities begin at 6pm opening up with a group dance lesson. Following the lesson, a wild and crazy all out dance party will take place! The only reason you’ll want to get off the dance floor is to grab a slice or a cold drink before you get back to it. The party will be held at the Allstar Dance Studio located at 4910 Tamiami Trail North Suite 118, Naples, Florida 34103. The entry fee is $5/person or for groups of 3+, just bring one unwrapped children’s toy or gift to support kids in need this Holiday Season. For any questions or additional details, please email Nick Sibilia at nsibilia@dreamscapefoundation.org or visit our Facebook Event page. To find out more about the Allstar Dance Studio, please visit their website or Facebook Page for class details and schedules. We hope to see you all there to enjoy in the fun and help us in Sharing the Dream! « PreviousNext »24-Hours of Splucy: Dreamscape’s Next Charity Stream
24-Hours of Splucy: Dreamscape’s Next Charity Stream
Dreamscape Foundation is proud to announce its next upcoming Charity Stream event! Partnering up with us this time around is Twitch Streamer Splucy (AKA Lucy), who will be putting on an incredible 24-hour stream! Complete with prizes and fun incentives, Lucy is ready to not only support those in need, but to do something extra for her community and put on a stream they’ll love. Now before we dive into the event details, let’s take a minute to find out where the Splucy channel began.How Lucy became Splucy
Lucy began her streaming career on Youtube not knowing much, if anything, about what she was doing. After a while, she saw a longtime friend post about Twitch and decided to check it out. After asking her friend about it, he encouraged her to try it and helped answer all her questions. So, she jumped right into it, not know what to expect and the Splucy Twitch Channel was born. Fast forward 8 short months later, Lucy’s channel is booming! So much so, it led her to making the decision of her life. Lucy recently decided to leave her day job to follow her heart and passion and on November 1st became a fulltime Twitch Streamer! Now as a fulltime Streamer, Lucy is looking to kick things up a notch and take her production to the next level. With an active and constantly growing community, she is always changing things up, doing new and exciting streams. For example, being from beautiful Australia, Lucy recently put on a mobile beach day stream with her pup Balto. Whether she is gaming or Just Chatting, Lucy loves interacting with her community and making it a place people feel at home. To her, the social aspect that you can mix with gaming is what makes streaming worth it.Another chance to give back to those in need
While fulltime streaming may be new to Lucy, fundraising and volunteering are anything but. In the past, she has worked with a few organizations to help any way she could. From preparing meals for and playing games/socializing with the elderly to event planning, social media management and photography for a local parish, she has done it all. When asked why she does it, her response was simple, “it’s just a good feeling”. To elaborate, knowing that her actions can help and make a difference to someone in need is reward enough. But her volunteer efforts don’t end there! Last June, she brought her fundraising to Twitch for the first time to raise money for the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Now, Lucy is ready to do it again! This time for the Dreamscape Foundation’s Holiday Giving Campaigns, supporting families and children in need throughout the holiday season. Beginning on Saturday November 30th at 7am EST (8pm AWST), Splucy will be kicking off the 24-hour Charity Stream event! Regardless of what you typically watch on stream, she has a variety of things planned that you’re sure to love. Bouncing back and forth between gaming and Just Chatting, Splucy will be playing an assortment of games ranging from chill and easy going to ones that will have you (and/or her) jumping out of your seat in terror and excitement. Additionally, she won’t be going through it all alone. Throughout the 24 hours Splucy will be joined by other streamers she knows for some group chats and discussions. With a whole lot more planned, it should be an event everyone can enjoy. But what would a Dreamscape Charity Stream be without some amazing gifts and prizes for you to win! All donations will be rewarded with thank you gifts including Dreamscape T-shirts, Steam Keys, Overwatch Sticker sets and Overwatch Heroes Fleece Blankets. But wait… There’s more! Each donation tier also includes entries into our 2 raffle drawings. With the smaller prize being a $50 Amazon gift card and the grand prize of a $100 Amazon gift card! The Holiday/Giving Season has officially begun and we hope you all will tune in this Saturday November 30th to get things started right! We encourage everyone to join and Lucy is especially excited to share this event with her community and all new comers! Regardless of your ability to donate, anyone is welcome and there will be something for everyone to enjoy! To keep up with Lucy and the event, you can follow Splucy’s Twitch Channel, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube. To donate, please click and follow our Tiltify Page. We hope to see you all there to join us in Sharing the Dream! « PreviousNext »How a Father’s Loving Act Went International
How a Father’s Loving Act Went International
To a father, his children are a true gift and treasure. They always wish the best for them and would do anything to see them happy. For Gavin Leonard, he just wanted a way to be closer to his daughter and create memories that would last a life time. About 2 years ago, he began writing children’s books to read with his daughter. He never expected this small fatherly act would connect him with people and organizations across the Globe.Gavin’s Inspiration and Motivation
From the moment Gavin laid eyes on his daughter, he knew he would do anything for her. As she got a little bigger, he started thinking of a way to remember the adventures they had together for when she was older. A friend told him how he began a blog to keep track of all the adventures he had with his kids, Gavin couldn’t help but love the idea. He began doing just that and to his surprise, found people were actually interested in following his posts. At the time, Gavin didn’t know where this would lead but luckily enough, his love for his daughter would open doors he couldn’t imagine. When family and friends came to visit, they would always comment on how beautiful she was and that she could be an actress or model. Gavin knew they meant well, but to him it was a bit strange to think of a new born in this way. Additionally, they would always call her a “princess” but Gavin began replying, “she’s not JUST a princess”, for he knew she would be able to do anything she dreamed of. The reason Gavin felt this way came from the books he read to her. To him, they were always the damsel in distress and in need of being saved. Not his daughter! She would be strong and capable on her own. He often made comments about this to his wife, until one day she said, “if you don’t like the books you read… then write your own!?”. And so, he did!The ‘Not Just a Princess Book Series’ is Born
Gavin made a plan and wanted his princesses to get away from the typical fairy tale and make it more real. So, what better title for the series than “Not Just a Princess”? His initial plan was to have his daughter (the princess), have a job and need to solve a problem that came up. But after a while, he knew she would need help and began creating new princesses. The common theme throughout the previous 6-book series is the princesses’ strengths, smarts, and abilities to work together to help one another overcome their problem. He wanted a story for everyone and made the princesses different in all aspects including being different culturally, appearance, etc. He never expected the books to be published but his daughter loved them so much he figured why not try.The Newest Princess and the International Connections she made
Most recently, he decided to go further and include a second princess with a disability. Gavin wanted to show the world the truth of people differently abled. Instead of talking about a disability, he wanted to spread awareness that people have all different strengths and weaknesses no matter who they are. He thought back to his time living with family in China. While there, he spent a lot of time with his niece Nora, who has down syndrome and learned a lot for himself. When I had the opportunity to speak with him, he told me a story of what truly opened his eyes. “Nora loved water”, he said. Her and her siblings would often swim and play. One day when he was with them, he had been throwing Nora’s siblings into the water for fun, when Nora asked to go next. He hesitated out of care and in fear she may get hurt or scared. But her father set the record straight and what he said to Gavin really stuck with him. He said, “she’s just like her sisters and she can be thrown too.” Gavin went and threw her next and after seeing her joy and excitement, he realized nobody should ever be treated differently like that. In honor of his niece, this story follows Nora, a champion swimmer with down syndrome, and how she helps the others solve a problem. But it doesn’t stop there. For this story he wanted to do more than just spread awareness but instead, use it to give back in a better way. Gavin began looking for local charities and connected with Down Syndrome Ireland and the Special Olympics. After hearing all that Special Olympics does for their athletes across the globe, they decided to begin promoting it worldwide. That led to Gavin connecting with us at the Dreamscape Foundation and other nonprofits as well. He explained he planned to donate all proceeds from the book’s sales to different charities and wanted to connect to as many as possible.The Release and Final Details
Should all go as planned, the book is anticipated to be released in Ireland on October 24th, 2019. But you can purchase anytime through Dreamscape Foundation’s direct link!! The charities involved as of now include the Dreamscape Foundation, Special Olympics: Ireland, UK, Down Syndrome: Ireland, and US, and Brainwave UK. All of these organizations will have their own links available to purchase after the book is released! Those links will be used to directly support that organizations, or by purchasing from Not Just a Princess directly the proceeds will be distributed evenly to all organizations. That is how what started out as a way for Gavin Leonard to share time with his daughter, turned into an international movement to spread awareness and give back to the disabled community. Gavin is an amazing guy and has nothing but love in his heart. On a final note, what he wishes to highlight most is how excited he is to be working with various nonprofit organizations on this project and to have the opportunity to raise funds for their continued good work! To keep up with Gavin and the Not Just a Princess book series you can follow them on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Written by: Nicholas Sibilia « PreviousNext »Illuminating Invisible Disabilities
Illuminating Invisible Disabilities
Many know a disability when they see one; Quadriplegics in a wheelchair or Blind people with a walking cane are some afflictions that come to mind. If I asked you, “What is the most common disability?” what would you say? Actually, the most common ones are typically non-physical related. Many people will not know immediately that someone is living with these Hidden Disabilities. This is where we want to step in to help spread the word.Living with a Mental Disorder
Psychiatric disabilities, an umbrella term that covers a wide variety of mental health issues, are as common as 1 in 2 people. This is something people deal with every single day. These people do not require use of a cane or any accessibility device, as they have no actual physical disability. Keep in mind, people suffering from Psychiatric Disabilities can have years of experience, but still suffer from their condition. One mustn’t confuse experience with curing of a disability. Think of it as a scale, day to day, ranging from mild to severe. For example with the right amount of experience, people living with Bipolar Disorder will be able to notice signs of a disturbance and might even be able to contain their emotions, to a degree. Other days, the person may not even notice their mental disorder.Knowing the Signs
Although some invisible disabilities can be kept low-key, some will actually need to be presented to everyone around them. Due to the possible life-or-death situation, conditions such as Epilepsy, Diabetes, and Learning Disabilities should be shared as soon as you get to know someone. There is no shame in telling someone about your condition. especially if you spend a lot of time with them. The triggering of your disability can spark a wide variety of health issues and symptoms that can have you thrown for a loop, and can even lead to death. Keeping loved ones in mind, there should be no judgement. It may be a hard conversation to have, but one that needs to happen.Being the Support they Need
Living around someone with an Invisible Disability may sound like a rigorous task, but actually it’s pretty simple. With the right experience, someone will be able to “get into the mind” of their mentally disabled friend. These skills can be learned through personal experience, knowledge of previous events, and works best when you’re very close to the person. Catching someone slipping can save hours if not days of grueling mental laps that the invisible disability affects on the person afflicted. A simple, “Let’s step outside and get a breather” or “Hey, drink some water” can go a long way! Tackling Invisible Disabilities can be as easy as changing the pace of the day. Get some fresh air, take your mind of what it bringing you down. Staying positive is one of the best ways to deal with Invisible Disabilities. Without the right attitude, the afflicted will never get better. With the help of loved ones and the advice of professionals, Invisible Disabilities can be identified and dealt with accordingly. « PreviousNext »Improving Lives With Heightened Hearts Foundation
Improving Lives With Heightened Hearts Foundation
Millions around the world are suffering from poverty, hunger, and social injustice. After being struck with hard times, many struggle to get back on their feet. With only limited resources and help available to these families and individuals, the Heightened Hearts Foundation is going above and beyond to help them get back on their feet.Who is the Heightened Hearts Foundation?
Recently, the Dreamscape Foundation had the pleasure of speaking with Lyubov Smirnova, the Founder and CEO of the Heightened Hearts Foundation. While speaking with her, it was clear she is a driven and dedicated woman on a mission. It is no surprise that since founded in 2015 they have been able to implement over 32 successful programs in the US, Ukraine and Mexico. Outside of these set programs, Heightened Hearts is open to doing all they can to provide for those in need. But what sets them apart from many organizations is their ideology that providing needed goods alone is not enough. In line with their mission of creating lasting solutions for poverty, hunger, and social injustice; they focus not on just providing for temporary relief but work with people to help them become self-sufficient once again. To put into prospective, as the old saying goes, you can give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day, or you can teach a man to fish and he’ll never go hungry again.Programs Leading to Lasting Solutions
Heightened Hearts has 6 main programs established to help families, individuals, children, students, and the elderly. These consist of: Food Box program, Adopt-a-Grandparent, Back to School Children’s Baskets, Spiritual Programs, Teen Pregnancy Education, and Global Relief Centers. The Food Box program offers meals and vital nourishment to people in the worst conditions. The recipients of this program are constantly struggling to battle hunger, malnourishment and even starvation. However, it goes beyond just providing them with food for survival, but to educating those better off, of the devasting conditions being faced around the world. The programs purpose is to save countless lives, while educating and inspire others to join the fight. The programs run twice a year every November and June. Adopt-a-Grandparent is a sponsorship program to aid the aging and elderly. Unlike most developed countries who have assistance and elderly care programs, many seniors in other regions of the world are not as lucky. All volunteer sponsors will aid in offering services to the senior they are connected with. These services include obtaining proper medical care, proper nutrition, and companionship to let them know they are not alone. To ensure children have all the necessary supplies they need to learn and further their education, Heightened Hearts has created their Back to School Baskets program. Many families struggle financially and are faced with enough hardships as it is. Heightened Hearts believes their children’s education and chance for success should never be one of them. What this program offers are baskets full of all the necessary supplies a young student needs. Including backpacks, notebooks/paper, pens/pencils, highlighters, rulers, calculators, dictionaries, folders/binders, and a whole lot more! The Heightened Hearts Spiritual programs focus on specific themes from the Bible to provide insight and an opportunity for reflection on life. Help comes in all different forms and for many, reconnecting with God and strengthening themselves from within is all the help they require. Additionally, these programs allow individuals to address broken relationships with God, friends/family, and even themselves. The Teen Pregnancy Educational program is just as it sounds. A program established to properly educate teens on the aspects of safe sex practices. Additionally, many unplanned pregnancies around the world come from abuse. That is why Heightened Hearts includes therapy and clinic-based programs to ensure no child/teen is left to suffer alone. Lastly, the Global Relief Centers program is an initiative to give communities around the world a place to meet and discuss social and economic issues. Heightened Hearts will work with these communities who lack social gathering or relief centers, to build new Community Centers. Providing a safe, spacious area to discuss solutions to the problems they face.Holiday Events on the Horizon
Every year, leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas, Heightened Hearts goes to work. Packing large sized laundry baskets with pantry staples, foods, snacks, desserts, detergent, toilet trees and more, to ensure families will have much needed supplies to make the best of their holiday season. Delivered one week before the holiday, the baskets include enough supplies to last through the holiday and for weeks to come. At Heightened Hearts, they feel families should be helped in the long term and not just for a day or two.Love the Mission and want to get involved?
Heightened Hearts relies entirely on Volunteers. With almost no paid employees, they are always look for new donors or volunteers to support their programs. If interested in donating, you can go online and give funds right through their website. But if you are more interested in helping prepare for the upcoming holiday events, they are still in great need of the following items:- Children’s toys, clothes, school supplies
- Nonperishable food items
- Home goods: detergent, toilet trees
- Kitchen items
- Computers
- Beds or bedding
- Cooking items
- Adult Clothing: Male and Female
Dreamscape Foundation: A Charity for the Disabled & Our Community
Dreamscape Foundation: A Charity for the Disabled & Our Community
Founded in 2013, The Dreamscape foundation was created when the founder, Joseph Sehwani was diagnosed with a rare disease at the age of sixteen that took away his vision. Since then, Joseph has created a vision of his own for people suffering from rare diseases. Providing individuals with scholarships, job aids, education accommodations, health aids and all amenities to help them succeed in life. This foundation focuses on supporting their future to provide equality.