ST. PETERSBURG, FL – The Children’s Dream Fund hosted its annual Dreammaker Luncheon, bringing together more than 300 guests to celebrate the power of dreams and honor Raymond James as the 2026 Dreammaker of the Year. Presented by WestCMR, the event recognized the profound, long-term impact of community partners who help make dreams come true for local children facing life-threatening illnesses.
Fox13’s Mark Wilson emceed the event, welcoming Children’s Dream Fund leadership, board members, Dream children and their families, medical partners, and community and business leaders from across Tampa Bay. The event began with a lively networking social hour featuring live music, a coffee bar, photobooth, and more, creating an energetic and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Attendees then gathered for the luncheon program, where they experienced powerful stories that highlighted the lasting impact of a dream.
A moving video shared the story of Dreamer Vincent and his dream of going to Disney World, while also capturing his family’s ongoing relationship with the Children’s Dream Fund illustrating how each dream becomes part of a larger, supportive community. This message of long-term connection and impact closely reflects the enduring commitment demonstrated by their honoree, Raymond James. During the program, Dreamer Ella took the stage to share her personal story, creating a meaningful moment that resonated deeply with everyone in the room and showcased the true impact of a dream come true. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, the event raised over $125,000 to help grant dreams for children in the year ahead.
For more details and to view the digital event program, visit the Children’s Dream Fund website.
Since its founding in 1981, the St. Petersburg-based nonprofit has fulfilled over 4,000 dreams for children across West Central Florida battling life-threatening illnesses. With over 150 children currently awaiting their dream-come-true, the Children’s Dream Fund relies on community support to continue delivering hope, joy, and lasting memories to local families. The Children’s Dream Fund is one of the oldest and most active independent wish-granting organizations in the United States, serving children ages 3-21. Through each dream and every connection beyond it, the organization remains committed to creating meaningful, lifelong impact for the children and families it serves.
For more information about the Dreammaker Luncheon or the Children’s Dream Fund, please contact Emily Walsh, Marketing and Events Manager, at ewalsh@childrensdreamfund.org or
(727) 896-6390.
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