THE FLOWER EMPOWER PROGRAM AT DREAM FOUNDATION By Kenny Slaught

INTRODUCTION

Dream Foundation of Santa Barbara, California, works closely with adults facing terminal illnesses to realize their last wishes. One of its programs, Flower Empower, brings volunteers to area farmers markets and other locations several times each week to collect donated flowers and arrange them into inspiring displays. Volunteers then travel to hospices, hospitals, cancer centers, and homes to deliver these bouquets. In addition to flowers, volunteers deliver freshly baked cookies, chocolate, and cards created by children from local schools.

DREAM FOUNDATION OF SANTA BARBARA

When people receive bouquets from Flower Power, they are reminded that they are not alone in their struggles. While Flower Power is based in Santa Barbara, Dream Foundation encourages other organizations around the nation to create their own flower-based initiatives. The program continues to operate through the generosity of volunteers willing to make deliveries and local organizations that donate flowers and edibles in order to renew the hope of patients with terminal illnesses.