Dreams referrals can come from anyone associated with the child (parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, nurses, doctors, teachers, neighbours, or friends). Children can even refer themselves. We only ask that you discuss the referral with the child’s parents/legal guardians first.
The easiest method is to complete the Dreams Referral form, which sends the request directly to our Program Manager. Referrals can also be made by calling our head office at 780-469-3306 or toll free from outside Edmonton at 1-877-469-3306.
In order to qualify for a Dreams, a child must meet four criteria;
Our friendly and knowledgeable interviewers ask a variety of questions to obtain general information on the family, and to ensure they have a good understanding of the child’s medical condition. The majority of the interview is spent getting to know the child and talking about their Dreams choices. When children are not able to verbalize their own Dreams, we rely on the parents/legal guardians to speak on their behalf. The interview usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
Yes. All of our Dreams children, and their families, must be residents of Alberta. A child who is from out-of-province, but receiving treatment at one of our hospitals, will not qualify for our program
We believe that a child’s dreams are only limited by their imagination. With that said, we do not accept Dreams that involve medical treatment, medical travel, weaponry of any kind, motorized vehicles (quads, trucks, cars, ski-doos, go-carts, etc.), home renovations or home improvements including in-ground swimming pools. We have fulfilled Dreams for Dream family vacations, arranged for meetings with celebrities, provided computer systems, stereos, pets, outdoor playcenters, shopping sprees, hot tubs, bicycles, sensory equipment and even a full sized suit of armor. Everything Dream within reason is given serious consideration.
No. Our program is meant to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the child and we do not grant second Dreams for children who have already gone through our program, or that of any any other Dream or wish granting organization.
Without a doubt, the most popular Dreams request has always been for a family Disney vacation.
While we recognize some children have difficulty in thinking of three dreams choices, we know that given time, encouragement (and sometimes a little help), all children will be able to think of three things that they would really love to have, or do. We’re patient and don’t mind giving the child all the time they need to think of their Dreams.
Anytime is a good time to refer a child. We work with each family on a individual basis to create the experience their child needs.
