Those who dream of flying to Never Never Land or taking magic carpet rides will find a new RSO this semester full of other students trying who are also to relive the days of their youth.

Club Disney is for students who not only want to participate in nostalgic, Disney related activities, but also those who want to give back to those in need.

The club was founded by Jessica Faloona, a sophomore in LAS. Faloona says the idea was sparked by her pleasant childhood memories with Disney.

“I love Disney,” Faloona said. “I’ve been to Disney World a lot of times with my family, and I have a lot of great memories from that. I actually want to work there when I graduate and help give great memories to other kids.”

Last semester, Faloona enlisted the help of her friends and began filling out the necessary paperwork to make her RSO idea a reality. With the club’s first meeting approaching on Feb. 8, Faloona and the other members are now focused planning fun activities that will attract new members.

Faloona plans to hold bi-weekly meetings. Time will be spent watching Disney films, playing Disney related games and discussing future events to raise money for the RSO. A major part of the organization will be to contribute to philanthropic causes. Club Disney will donate proceeds to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Founded in 1980, this organization grants “wishes” to children facing life-threatening illnesses.

The club would also like to eventually sponsor a child and allow them to visit Disney World for the first time.

“While we are really proud of donating money and helping children from the Make-A-Wish foundation, we are also very excited about the social aspects of the club,” said Alayna Westlake, sophomore in Business and treasurer of Club Disney. “We want future members to know that it will be a lot of fun.”

Costume competitions, t-shirt sales and spring break trips to Disney World are also on the Club Disney agenda. Favorite Disney films among current members range from Sleeping Beauty to Robin Hood. They encourage fun, laid-back students who want to recollect childhood experiences and donate to charity.

Jenny Jones, a sophomore in DGS and member of Club Disney, emphasizes Disney’s abilities to affect individuals from all walks of life and unite them through positive shared experiences.

“I think no matter what age you are that everyone can enjoy Disney,” Jones said. “It brings together all kinds of people from different cultures and backgrounds. I think it’s a great way to bond; many people have had some type of connection with Disney.”

Club Disney’s first meeting will be held Feb. 8 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Room 1022 of the Foreign Language Building. For more information about the club, visit the Club Disney UIUC group on Facebook or e-mail [email protected].