How It Started
This one came from one of my friends back home saying that I had to watch this video and go check out this video. I defy you to watch it and not choke up even a little bit!
Once I saw it I knew that I had to go visit.
One of the things didn't realise at the time thought was that it is not open every weekend. Three times I had decided to go, and found that it was going to be closed that particular weekend.
Then, my family came into town, and I was planning a weekend trip to sightsee in LA, I thought it would be the ideal time to finally go and visit Caine's arcade. After a little research I not only found that it was going to be open, but also that it was going to be the last day that Caine would be opening his aracde, and also his 11th birthday celebrations.
We all did what you absolutely had to do and bought a fun pass. It was fun entering into the imagination of Caine, and playing on the games that he made in his spare time because of his vision. There were mazes and a claw machine, a basketball hoop and a table top hockey table.
Mum with Caine's Brother |
What Happened Next
Well, this little film went viral and gained momentum. More than anyone thought was possible. Out of the mind of one little boy, the Imagination Foundation was born, and Caine found himself traveling the country.
Another inspirational event developed for this is the Global Cardboard Challenge of which there have now been two. Children from around the world have been encourage to participate and get creative by unleashing their imaginations.
As for Caine, the hope was to set up a scholarship fund for his university education. He has been offered scholarships already and the money has gone further to help so many more children. But for right now, he is working on his plans for a bicycle shop :)
Modeling the merchandise! |
One of the most amazing aspects of the day, is showing up there with a load of random strangers from around the world that came together to this one small car parts shop on a back street in West LA, for a common cause - We Came To Play!! :)
More information can be found on Caine's Website: http://cainesarcade.com/ and/or Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/cainesarcade?fref=ts
My star of the show: Miss Bieny, my Beautiful Goddaughter! |