At W.W. Gay, we believe in building a stronger community. For nearly twenty years, our partnership with Dreams Come True of Jacksonville has been one of the most meaningful ways we live out that commitment. Together, we have brought joy, hope, and unforgettable memories to children in Northeast Florida who are facing life-threatening medical conditions.
Dreams Come True’s mission is to ensure that every eligible child in Northeast Florida has the chance to experience the magic of a dream fulfilled. Whether it’s traveling to Disney, meeting a favorite celebrity, or simply enjoying a special family trip, each dream provides comfort, joy, and strength during some of life’s most difficult challenges. Since its founding, Dreams Come True has never turned away an eligible child—a promise that inspires us to support their mission.
Our partnership with Dreams Come True began back in 2006, when we participated in the Jacksonville International Airport Management Council’s Annual Christmas Tree Decorating Contest. Our contribution was part of a collective effort, granting eight dreams, including four trips to Disney, two shopping sprees, and two destination experiences.
In 2017, our involvement grew when Retired Senior Vice President, Wayne Durban, joined the Dreams Come True Board of Directors. His leadership was later joined by Emily Andrews, who continues to serve as Director today, and Caroline Carter, who proudly serves on the Horizon Board. Their service reflects our belief that partnership is more than financial—it’s about showing up with our time and talents to support the mission.
Over the years, our support has expanded across some of the organization’s most impactful events. Since 2018, we have partnered with Commercial Metals Company to sponsor the CMC Annual Golf Tournament, helping raise more than $105,000 and funding 13 dreams. That same year, we joined other local businesses to help build the Dreams Come True Patio at their Southpoint office, a permanent space where families can gather in celebration and reflection.
One of our most memorable fundraising moments came in 2021, when employees had the chance to dunk Wayne Durban—and several other members of management—at our “Dunkin’ Durban” contest. Between the dunk tank and boxed lunch sales, we raised $3,200 while sharing plenty of laughs along the way.
Also in 2021, we proudly began supporting the Annual Dreams Come True Bass Tournament, created by Dream Dad, Mike Spurlock, in honor of his son, Gage. Since then, this tournament has raised more than $390,000 and fulfilled over 30 dreams.
That same year, we became a Field of Dreams Sponsor for the Dreams Come True 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, the organization’s largest community event. This sponsorship allows Dreams Come True to honor and highlight dream children as ambassadors, with 55 children sharing their inspiring journeys since 2021.
Our employees have embraced this event, personally raising more than $12,000 over the past two years through bake sales, raffles, car washes, cookouts, bingo, and more. Every dollar raised goes directly to support dreamers. In 2024, our fundraising made it possible for 9-year-old Alana, who bravely fought lymphoblastic lymphoma, to see snow for the very first time on a family trip to the Poconos.
Since 2006, W.W. Gay has contributed more than $138,000 in financial support to Dreams Come True, in addition to countless volunteer hours and leadership commitments. From small beginnings in holiday fundraising to board-level service and signature event sponsorships, our commitment has grown into a lasting legacy. Today, Dreams Come True fulfills nearly 220 dreams each year—and we are honored to play a role in making that possible. Our partnership with Dreams Come True reminds us that when businesses stand with their local communities, extraordinary things truly can happen.
