Question 1

Who can refer a child?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

How do I refer a child?

Accepted Answer

The easiest method is to complete the Dreams Referral (https://rainbowsociety.ab.ca/all-wishes/wish-referral-form/)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.

Question 3

How does a child qualify for a dreams request?

Accepted Answer

In order to qualify for a Dreams, a child must meet four criteria;
 • They must have been diagnosed with a life-threatening or severe chronic medical illness.
 • They must be between the ages of 3 and 18.
 • They must live in Alberta.
 • They cannot have received a Dream or Wish from any other Dream or Wish granting organization.

Question 4

What takes place during the interview?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

Does the child have to live in Alberta?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

What types of things can be included in a Dreams request?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

Can a child receive more than one Dreams request?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

What is the most popular Dreams request?

Accepted Answer

Without a doubt, the most popular Dreams request has always been for a family Disney vacation.

Question 9

What if a child only has one Dreams request?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

When is a good time to refer a child?

Accepted Answer

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.

Dream Application FAQ's

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