Snowball Express
Gary Sinise Foundation Snowball Express serves the surviving spouse/guardian and children of fallen heroes. We are committed to year-round programming and support for families that honors their fallen hero, encourages them to make new memories, and provides opportunities to connect with others who know what they’ve been through.
Honoring the Fallen
One of the ways we honor and remember our fallen heroes is in a Remembrance Garden filled with hundreds of flags and placards, each representing the brave heroes our families lost. This garden is an important reminder to our families that they are not alone during this time of year, and their hero’s selfless sacrifice will never be forgotten.
healing & fun
The holidays can be especially challenging for grieving families. Each December, we host a five-day experience for 1,750+ children of the fallen and the surviving spouse/guardian. With special time to honor their fallen and a blend of fun entertainment and inspiring programs, these families can lean on their peers for support. Which is why we keep bringing Snowball Express back to Walt Disney World® Resort each year!
Connecting with Others
In addition to the magic of Disney each December, we’re also hosting community events for these families all year long. From baseball games to arts & educational opportunities, to overnight experiences these families can strengthen their community close to where they live. These events are essential for children and the surviving spouse/guardian to develop bonds with the only people who can truly understand their loss: each other.
Making New Memories
The Gary Sinise Foundation offers an opportunity for families to bond with each other and make new friends and cherished memories with various festivities throughout the year. We show our appreciation to and love for families and the children who continue to bear the ultimate meaning of service and sacrifice.
Empowerment Workshops
Another way we’re supporting families year-round is through weekend Empowerment Workshops. During this three-day retreat, surviving spouses/guardians and young adults come together to bond with each other and learn about self-awareness and effective communication methods to lead empowering lives. These activities help participants look more closely at their lives after loss and tap into their resiliency to move forward.
Photo Journal
Event Resources
Are you a family of the fallen who served on or after 9/11/2001? Complete our preliminary registration form below.
The Gary Sinise Foundation welcomes the families of fallen First Responders who served on or after 9/11/2001. Complete our preliminary registration form below.
Ready to join the Gary Sinise Foundation Snowball Express team? Start by filling out our volunteer signup.
