Chartway Federal Credit Union’s We Promise Foundation Hosts Promise Parade for Kid Hero

Ames, a 14-year-old Chesapeake native, has battled cancer most of his life. His wish to go to Walt Disney World was funded by Chartway’s We Promise Foundation and granted by its partner, Toby’s Dream Foundation. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, his wish was postponed.

The We Promise Foundation’s Board of Trustees, Chartway’s Board of Directors, Chartway’s leadership team, an enthusiastic crowd of Chartway team members, ODU’s Big Blue mascot, and ODU cheerleaders met at a local church to decorate their cars. From trucks to SUVs, each car was decked from fender to trunk with streamers, posters, balloons, and inspirational messages. Shortly after, the caravan of vehicles paraded by Ames’ house – honking, waving, playing music, blowing bubbles, and spreading some much-needed joy.

Ames could not have been more surprised to see dozens of cars parading around the corner. When Ames saw his parade, the shock, surprise, and excitement overcame him. Waving and cheering alongside so many others, Ames sported a grin from ear to ear.

“There is nothing that can stop joy, hope, and smiles from shining through – not even a global health pandemic,” said Karen Lane, executive director of Chartway’s We Promise Foundation. “We know how much these once-in-a-lifetime wishes mean to our kid heroes and while we hope Ames and his family will all travel to Disney soon, we’re doing what we can to lift his spirits and spread happiness!”

“During this unique time, the realities children with medical challenges face haven’t changed,” said Brian Schools, president & CEO of Chartway. “So, that makes what we do that much more important.”

All Smiles From 6 ft Apart: After the parade, Ames and his family; Brian Schools, Chartway’s president & CEO; and Karen Lane, We Promise Foundation executive director; celebrated behind his one-of-a-kind custom yard signs.

Rolling by With Cheer: Supporters decked out their cars with balloons and streamers for the celebration.

Parade Preparations: Old Dominion University cheerleaders and Big Blue mascot were proud to support Chartway and its We Promise Foundation by participating in Ames’ Promise Parade!

Surprising Ames: When Ames saw his parade, the shock, surprise, and excitement overcame him. Waving and cheering alongside so many others, Ames sported a grin from ear to ear.