The Walt Disney Company is known for giving back to the community no matter where they are. While the focus is usually in the areas where the Disney theme parks are, Disney does make a difference in communities all over the world.
Disney Cruise Line closed its 2026 Alaska season by building on its ongoing support for local organizations across Southeast Alaska, working with local groups in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan to support military families, connect students with maritime professionals and create opportunities for young Alaskans.
From September 24–26, crew members from the Disney Wonder joined community organizations for three events across the region: a career conversation with Junior Achievement Alaska students in Skagway, a Coast Guard Families Appreciation Event in Juneau, and a maritime careers ship tour in Ketchikan. The events capped a season of community involvement that helped strengthen relationships with the Southeast Alaska communities that Disney Cruise Line visits each summer.
“Alaska is an important and growing part of the Disney Cruise Line story,” said Beth Thibadoux, Director of External Affairs for Disney Cruise Line. “The communities we visit are one of the many reasons a Disney Cruise Line experience is so special, and we remain committed to deepening the relationships and supporting local priorities of the communities that welcome us every season.”
In Juneau, Disney Cruise Line joined Armed Services YMCA of Alaska on September 25 to recognize Coast Guard members and families serving Alaska and the U.S. Arctic. The celebration offered Coast Guard families the opportunity to spend time with each other participating in themed activities, crafts, and memorable moments with Captain Mickey Mouse.
Disney Cruise Line also announced its investment in the U.S. Coast Guard Foundation in support of its Coastie Campers summer enrichment program, helping expand opportunities for Coast Guard families in Alaska. To commemorate the afternoon and in recognition of the Coast Guard’s service to the region, Disney Cruise Line presented Coast Guard Capt. Michele Schallip with an American flag that flew onboard the Disney Wonder as it sailed Alaskan waters.
“Military families make tremendous sacrifices in service to Alaska and the country, and it means a great deal when community partners take the time to recognize and support them,” said Sarah Riffer, Executive Director for Armed Services YMCA of Alaska. “This was an opportunity for families to simply come together, feel celebrated and enjoy time with one another.”
Disney has a long history of honoring military service members, veterans, and their families dating back 100 years to founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, who both served their country during World War I.
In Skagway, Disney Wonder crew members joined local students from Junior Achievement of Alaska on September 24, sharing their own career paths and offering a firsthand look at the range of jobs that keep a cruise ship running. The conversation gave students an opportunity to hear directly from maritime professionals and learn more about careers that can begin with many different interests, skills, and backgrounds.
Two days later in Ketchikan, more local students with Junior Achievement Alaska and the Magsayawan Filipino Dance Group boarded the Disney Wonder for a discussion on maritime careers and a ship tour. Students met crew members and got a behind-the-scenes look at the people, skills, and professions involved in operating a cruise ship, connecting an industry they see in their community each summer to potential future career paths.
“Our students see ships visit throughout the season, but getting to talk directly with the people who make those operations possible is a completely different experience,” said Mackenzie Platschorre, Vice President of Secondary Programs for Junior Achievement of Alaska, Inc. “Opportunities like these help students see the maritime industry not just as something happening around them, but as a place where they can explore their interests, envision the possibilities ahead, and see how their actions today can help build a choice-filled life.”
The September events capped a broader season of community involvement across Southeast Alaska, as Disney Cruise Line collaborated with several local organizations to bring moments of happiness and support where they’re needed most.
Throughout 2026, Disney Cruise Line supported the Southeast Alaska Food Bank, including its work to provide weekend meals through Harborview Elementary School; donated boot and glove warmers for Harborview classrooms; contributed Disney books and participated in intergenerational programming at the Ketchikan Pioneer Home; and welcomed Skagway Summer Camp participants aboard the Disney Wonder for the fourth year.
Earlier this year, Disney Cruise Line and Huna Totem Corporation announced a 15-year agreement securing preferential access at Icy Strait Point through at least 2041, helping ensure Disney guests can continue experiencing the culture, wildlife and natural beauty of Southeast Alaska while supporting local jobs, businesses and tourism.
What do you think of Disney giving back to the local community? Have you ever volunteered with Disney in any capacity? Let us know in the comments.
