Dream Program FAQ

Who qualifies for a Dream?: Young people in Canada aged 11–21 living with severe physical disabilities, whether congenital, acquired through an accident, or developed over time, are eligible. Many of these individuals face significant barriers and may not qualify for other programs.
Examples of severe physical disabilities may include* cerebral palsy, spina bifida, arthrogryposis, muscular dystrophy, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, spinal cord injury, brain injury, severe hearing loss, and severe vision loss. *This list is not exhaustive.
You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
How do I refer someone for a Shine Dream?: Shine Foundation works with approximately 40 referral partners across Canada who are certified with Shine to refer qualifying young people to our program. These partners range from child life specialists, social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, administrative personnel, program managers, or CEOs in the health care industry.
Some of our partners include John McGiveny, TVCC, Sick Kids, Easter Seals NS, THRIVE, BC Children’s, Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital, ManitobaPossible, Saskabilities, CHEO, Stan Cassidy.
If you want to apply for a Dream or become a referral partner, please contact our Programs Team and we will connect you with more details. Email dreams [at] shinefoundation [dot] ca (dreams[at]shinefoundation[dot]ca)
How long does it take to complete a Dream request? Do you have a wait list?: We accept applications annually from our certified referral partners and work to complete all of our Dreams by end the of the year. We do not carry a wait list. The timeline can vary depending on the nature of the Dream and other health, family, or personal factors of the Dreamer. We discuss timelines with the Dreamer during the application process.
How many Dreams do you complete in a year?: In 2025, Shine will fulfill 65 Dreams. As we continue to grow, our goal is to be able to complete a Dream every day in 2030.
What types of Dreams do you fulfill?: Shine Dream requests vary widely - as they are unique to each individual’s aspirations. They can include adaptive equipment for inclusive sport or play, bedroom makeovers to foster independence, support animals, technology, or tools like graphic design equipment to aid in educational and career pursuits.
Who approves the applicants?: Once all Dream applications have been received from the certified referral partner, Shine’s CEO, our Medical Advisory team, and Programs team work together to approve the application.
How do you fund your Dreams?: Shine Foundation relies entirely on donations from individuals, community events, and corporate partners. Shine does not receive government funding, and we are not a United Way member agency. However, you can still direct your United Way donation to support Shine and support Dreams for young people in Canada living with severe physical disabilities.
How much does a Dream cost?: The cost of a Dream depends on the request and is managed by the Dream Team. To discuss Dream Funding or Support, please contact dreams [at] shinefoundation [dot] ca (dreams[at]shinefoundation[dot]ca)
How do you balance Dream fulfillment across Canada?: Shine uses an equity-based referral process to make the best efforts to ensure our program delivery across Canada touches every province and territory. We only make adjustments when necessary, where referral partners and supporters from other locations can help fill any distribution gaps.
What is the goal of a Dream?: The Program Team works with youth during a critical stage in their development where they’re looking at their potential. Upon exploring the individual’s interests and goals, a customized Dream is created with the aim to inspire confidence or independence, and a sense of purpose. We help Dreamers see new possibilities for their future, turning their mindset from “I can’t” into “I can”.