Butterfly Dreams is a nonprofit organization which provides an opportunity for girls, women, boys and men with significant intellectual disabilities/developmental delays to participate in both an annual pageant and numerous yearly activities promoting the event. Our goal is to give every participant their moment to stand in the spotlight, showcase their abilities and not be defined by their disabi
lities. Every participant will receive an accolade; a trophy and crown. America" moment. Our vision also involves support from the community. Men and women, (known as Pageant PALs) es**rt a participant through the pageant and events. A PAL can be a family member, friend, Para, and student. This is an excellent opportunity for college students working towards a career in Special Education, Speech Pathology or related field of study. Our events provide the students with real world experience, along with the promotion of inclusion and acceptance. Our hope is that our participants and PALs will develop and/or continue a friendship that extends beyond the borders of Butterfly Dreams. We also want our participants to feel value in the community that supports them, and to realize the blessings they truly have been given. To expand upon this idea, instead of an entry fee, we ask that each participant of the pageant bring an unwrapped toy to donate to the that year's chosen hospital or charity. This brings a whole new awareness of people helping people. Butterfly Dreams is a journey of learning life skills and developing pride in self for all its participants and volunteers.
