Excitement is building in Portage la Prairie as six local children prepare for the journey of a lifetime with Dreams Take Flight, a national non-profit organization that takes deserving children on a one-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Disneyland. "This is such an exciting opportunity for these kids," said and a longtime volunteer. "They've been through so much, and this day gives them a chance to just be kids, to dream, and to see what's possible." Lambert, who first became involved with the charity while in flight attendant school, explained the program's beginnings. "It started with a group of flight attendants in Toronto who realized how lucky we were to travel and see the world. They wanted to give that experience to children who might never otherwise get the chance, not just flying, but seeing a whole new world." What started as a simple flight around Toronto evolved into full-day trips to Disney theme parks, thanks to the early support of Air Canada and eventually the Air Canada Foundation. Now, each year, hundreds of volunteers help make the trip possible for children across the country. The day itself is carefully orchestrated, beginning long before dawn. "Our volunteers start showing up as early as 1:30 in the morning," Lambert said. "Kids arrive around 3:00 a.m., and by 5:00 a.m., we're in the air." This year, children will travel to Disneyland in California, where they'll be welcomed in style by firefighters, police, and airport staff. "We take a big family photo in front of the plane, hop on buses, and then it's straight to the park for a full day of fun," said Lambert. "And yes, ice cream for breakfast is absolutely allowed." Beyond the rides and excitement, the impact runs deep. "A lot of these kids come from very difficult circumstances," Lambert shared. "Some have faced loss, trauma, or serious illness. This day shows them there's more out there, that people care, and that they have value." Children are selected based on a strict but compassionate process, focusing on those between the ages of 8 and 13 who face physical, emotional, or financial barriers. "We work closely with community partners, hospitals, and other organizations to identify kids who would truly benefit," Lambert said. And while the trip itself lasts just one day, the effects can last a lifetime. "We've had past participants come up to us years later and say that this trip changed their outlook on life," Lambert said. "Some have even gone on to become caregivers or volunteers themselves." Set to depart in just one week, the trip marks the beginning of a new partnership between Dreams Take Flight and Country 93, with local radio personality Brittany Boschman joining the flight to document the experience and share it with the community. Dreams Take Flight operates entirely on volunteer support and fundraising. To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit www.dreamstakeflight.ca.