We are incredibly proud to share that Join the Fun Foundation has been selected as the 2026 Macaroni KID Village Builder for the Hershey–Manheim region!
Village Builders are organizations doing meaningful, often behind-the-scenes work that families rely on. They are chosen for their impact, focus on inclusion, and the difference they make in the lives of children and families every day. Being named a Village Builder is an honor, and one that deeply aligns with our mission.
What the Village Builders Program Represents
The Macaroni KID Village Builders program was created to elevate nonprofits that strengthen families and communities in lasting ways. Each year, one organization per region is selected to receive a year-long, in-kind marketing grant designed to amplify their reach and help more families discover supportive, memory-making opportunities.
2026 is the inaugural year of this program, making this recognition especially meaningful. Selection was made by a committee of Macaroni KID ambassadors and volunteers using a mission-alignment review process focused on:
- Alignment with Macaroni KID’s “families making memories” mission
- Clear impact on children and families
- Commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and belonging
- Demonstrated community need and potential for growth
Read the full announcement here!
A Big Impact in Just a Few Short Months
In just a few short months, Join the Fun Foundation has already begun making a meaningful difference for families. What started as a vision for inclusion and access is quickly turning into real experiences, joyful moments, and lasting memories.
Through our first round of grants, families were able to enjoy experiences that might otherwise feel out of reach. In October, seven families were awarded grants for the paid portions of Hershey’s Chocolate World Sensory Friendly Night, where they could fully enjoy the experience in an environment designed to be welcoming and supportive of sensory needs.
In December, two families were awarded the Holidays at Hersheypark grant, giving them the chance to enjoy the magic of the season in a way that felt inclusive and comfortable for their family. These moments allowed families to focus on connection, joy, and creating meaningful holiday memories together.
We also partnered with the National Aquarium and Monkey Joe’s Camp Hill to provide free admission for families. These opportunities provided opportunities for fun, that otherwise may have felt out of reach.
Each of these opportunities reflects our commitment to expanding access, reducing barriers, and ensuring that families of all abilities can truly join the fun- and we’re just getting started!
You can read our full 2025 impact recap here!
What This Means for Join the Fun Foundation
As a 2026 Village Builder, Join the Fun Foundation will receive year-long visibility through Macaroni KID Capital Region, helping connect more families to inclusive events, programs, and experiences designed with their needs in mind.
This recognition helps expand awareness of the work we are doing and ensures more families know that inclusive opportunities exist right here in our community. As we head into the new year, we’re excited to share more inclusive events and grant opportunities to help support more families.. As the Join the Fun Foundation continues to grow, so does our commitment to expanding access and creating welcoming experiences for families of all abilities.
Thank You
We are deeply grateful to Macaroni KID Capital Region for this recognition and for their commitment to highlighting organizations that help families thrive. We look forward to a year of greater connection, visibility, and shared impact for the families we serve.
Thank you to our supporters, partners, and families who make this mission possible. Together, we are building a future where everyone truly gets to join the fun.
Join the Fun!
Check out all the ways you can get involved:
- Spread the word!
- Volunteer as a support professional
- Make a donation
- Apply for a grant opportunity
- Have an idea you want to see come to life? Know a business or organization that should join us? Encourage them to reach out or connect with us directly at hello@jointhefunfoundation.org or through our contact page.