Combining creativity with a passion for wildlife and wild places, Cast Members at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park decorated reusable rain barrels to raise awareness for water conservation and support the Disney Conservation Fund to help save animals from extinction.
As part of an annual Earth Month tradition, Cast Members raised more than $1,300 for the Disney Conservation Fund. Artistic Cast Members depicted a variety of wildlife and nature scenes – from Sumatran tigers to sea turtles – on the 55-gallon barrels. Fellow Cast Members eyed the creative designs and voted for their favorites with spare change.
“This is the second year I have participated in this unique event,” said TJ Chimento, a custodial host at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. “The fact that I can take my passion for drawing and help save animals in the wild, that’s the best combination for me.”
Not only will contributions be sent to support the fund, but the barrels can be reused to collect rainwater for washing cars or watering lawns and gardens. The use of rain barrels helps conserve water and can even help reduce water bills.
“The Cast are really talented, but the underlying difference they’re making is what I hope they’ll never forget,” said Dr. Mark Penning, director of Animals, Science and Environment for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
The Disney Conservation Fund was founded on Earth Day in 1995 and has awarded more than $25 million to conservation programs in 114 countries. All funded programs are committed to saving species and natural habitats while helping kids develop lifelong conservation values through nature exploration