At The Dream Factory, we dream of a world where no child is sick

Forty+
Years of dreams
Nine-hundred+
Dreams come true
Sixty-five+
New Dream Kids met in 2024
Ceramic bubble letters imitating balloons spelling out the word 'DREAM'.

Until then, we’re here to bring hope, joy, and unforgettable moments to every Dream Kid and their family.

The Dream Factory is a Manitoba-based children’s charity that is dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for kids battling life-threatening illnesses and supporting families throughout their medical journeys.

You might know us for making big dreams come true — like trips to Disney World, celebrity meet-and-greets, bedroom makeovers, and shopping sprees. But did you know we also provide critical, ongoing support for local families?

These additional supports include financial assistance, local events and activities, as well as a strong, ongoing community network for families.

On average, Manitoba families stay engaged with The Dream Factory for 5 to 7 years. The Dream Factory Experience is about more than a single trip — we’re here for Manitoba kids and families as long as they need us.

We operate solely in Manitoba and are not part of any larger organization. That means every dollar raised stays right here in our province to support local families. It also allows us to respond quickly and be flexible in meeting the unique needs of each family we serve.

Learn more about how we help
Headshot of team member on colorful background.
Andrew Kussy
Executive Director
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Shannon Patterson
Dream Manager
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Kylee Nachtigall
Dream Coordinator
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Steffani Biffin
Events & Projects Manager
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Chelsea Walker
Community Giving Manager
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Trish Taylor
Donor Relations Manager
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Ryan Haughey
Communications Coordinator
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Kayla Nelson
Administrative Assistant
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Karly Tardiff
Community Giving Manager (On Mat Leave)

Board of Directors

Kate Holden
President
The Pourium
David Patrick
Vice-President
Calm Air
BJ Langdon
Treasurer
Retired
Leilani Kagan
Secretary
Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP
Dr. Chris Hohl
Medical Advisor
Children’s Hospital
Jessa Earle
Director
The Dufresne Group
Jeff Herlick
Director
Bonafide Construction Solutions
Glen Lafrenais
Director
True North Sports & Entertainment
Mike MacKinnon
Director
Winnipeg Police Service
Amber Saleem
Director
103.1 Virgin Radio
Ngoc Truong
Director
WestJet Airlines
Haley Yurman
Director
Empty Cup Collective

What powers
our Dream Machine

Our core values shape who we are and what we do.

One of the Dream Machine stations featuring a large plastic key that reads 'DREAM', and turns a large, light up dial mechanism.

Authenticity

We’re real with every Dream Kid, family, and supporter, creating a comfortable and accepting space where everyone feels safe to be themselves.

Connection

We build meaningful relationships, creating heartfelt connections with kids, families, volunteers, donors, and partners — all centered around Dream Kids and their families.

Fun

Fun isn’t just the result — it’s what drives us every step of the way. It inspires dreams, brings joy, and makes the journey as magical as the dream itself.

Trust & Reliability

We show up, keep our promises, and handle every dream with care, compassion, and transparency — ensuring we can be counted upon.

In 1983, Michelle Harrison and Linda Cameron-Turchet founded The Rainbow Society, one of Canada’s very first wish-granting organizations. Michelle and Linda were motivated by a simple, yet important, idea: that every child deserves to have their dream come true.

Since then, over 1000 children in Manitoba have had the opportunity to dream, and their families have received much-needed support during some of their most difficult days.

In 2011, The Rainbow Society became The Dream Factory, highlighting an important new chapter marked by an increased focus on supporting families and hosting events and activities right here at home.

In 2025, The Dream Factory celebrated the opening of a new, child-centric community space that will further transform our ability to make a difference for Manitoba families during some of their most difficult days.

Michelle Harrison seated in a kitchen wearing a funky blue shirt with a friend standing next to her.

Celebrating Michelle Harrison’s Legacy

In 2024, The Dream Factory’s co-founder Michelle Harrison passed after a brave battle with lung cancer. In her final months, she launched a fundraising campaign as a living legacy — a continuation of her life’s work to bring joy and hope to children facing life threatening illnesses.

To learn more about Michelle’s legacy or to donate to her living legacy, please click the link below.

Visit Michelle’s Living Memorial