OWA Parks & Resort teamed up with Magic Moments to host its annual “Beyond the Moment” celebration on Friday, June 13, marking the seventh year the two have worked together to create moments of joy for Alabama children with serious illnesses.

This year’s event featured a special surprise reveal, donated by the Poarch Creek Indians, for one local child and their family to receive a “Passport to Magic” theme park adventure. The journey will begin at OWA before continuing to Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld in Florida.

Poarch Creek Indians, a long-standing supporter of Magic Moments, added a $25,000 contribution to help fund the wish ceremony. The gift highlights the tribe’s ongoing commitment to providing hopeful, memorable moments for families across Alabama.

The contribution goes above and beyond OWA’s long-standing support for Magic Moments. Each year, OWA provides complimentary passes for attending children and families to Tropic Falls, its theme and water parks. The day-long event allows families to enjoy rides and entertainment, making memories that last long after the gates close. What began with just over 100 participants has grown to more than 250 guests attending this year’s “Beyond the Moment” celebration.

“Each year, this event reminds us of the power of community,” said Cathy Pavloski, director of Marketing for OWA Parks & Resort. “We are honored to continue supporting Magic Moments in their mission and to welcome these children and families to a day that’s all about creating special memories.”

Founded in 1984, Magic Moments has granted more than 5,000 wishes across all 67 Alabama counties. Through regional celebrations like “Beyond the Moment,” the organization builds long-lasting connections with families and delivers moments of joy when they’re needed most.

“Thanks to the generosity of Poarch Creek Indians and OWA Parks & Resort, we’re able to continue showing these children and their families that they are supported and celebrated, by giving them moments they’ll never forget,” said Rachel Rounsaville, executive director of Magic Moments. “These days are about more than just a moment of joy — they’re about lasting memories and real hope.”

To learn more about Magic Moments or to get involved, visit www.magicmoments.org. For more about OWA Parks & Resort, go to https://VisitOWA.com.