Legend holds it all started with a handshake.
Today, Give Kids the World has welcomed more than 75,000 families from all 50 states to Central Florida.
Thanks to the generosity of countless businesses and volunteers, even more wishes are to come.
News 13's Scott Fais has today's Building Community.
Each spring, more than 1,400 people turn out for an evening of elegance.
"It's almost like a family reunion because these are the people who have supported Give Kids the World every step of the way,” Give Kids The World President Pam Landwirth said. “And for one evening can join together and just celebrate all the wonderful things that happen at the Village."
The Give Kids the World Village is a magical place where children with life-threatening illnesses can vacation from doctor's visits, medical treatments and concentrate on being a kid, thanks to one man.
"I like to take all the credit,” founder Henri Landwirth said. “But everybody in this room had something to do with Give Kids the World."
Twenty one years ago, Henri began the non-profit organization with one goal: “We will never turn down a child."
In order to make that wish a reality, 100 new villas are planned. The Black and White Gala helps raise the funds necessary for the addition and keep the train rolling and the carousel spinning.
"Thank you for giving these children hopes and dreams for tomorrow and just come together and really celebrate," Pam Landwirth said.
Partygoers celebrate with auction items donated from Central Florida's notable businesses.
Universal Orlando donated the right to ride on a Marti Gras float next spring.
Shamu at SeaWorld is looking forward to meeting the folks who had the winning bid to spend some one-on-one time with him.
David Maus Toyota donated a Toyota F-J Cruiser.
The Miller Brewing Company donated a a-one-of-a-kind Harley.
"It's a wonderful experience," Pam Landwirth said.
The experience is thanks to the generosity of the Peabody Orlando who donates the facility. At the heart of this event are children who the Holocaust survivor loves so dearly.
"They give me all the energy that I need to go on with my life today," Henri Landwirth said. “I am very blessed.”
This year's Black and White Gala raised more than $600,000 for Give Kids the World.
That's Building Community,
Scott Fais, Central Florida News 13.