"Increasingly, Disney is a global company," said Walt Disney International president Andy Bird. "It is essential for us to put down roots in local communities and contribute as best we can to their well being."

The first International VoluntEARS Day is aimed at joining forces on an international level to brighten the lives of children and families. Thousands of Disney staff and cast members in nearly forty countries are painting hospitals and orphanages, leading kids on field trips to zoos and parks, screening movies, and holding art workshops at schools, informs an official release.

In the United States, Disney has established strong partnerships over the years with such organizations as the Make-a-Wish Foundation of America, the Boys and Girls Club of America, the Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation and UNICEF. In line with its international expansion, Disney India is now supporting Make-A-Wish Foundation of India, Palana, Indian Council for Child Welfare, Vatsalya, Ashwini Charitable Trust (Bangalore), Ahead (Kolkata), Palna & Udayan (New Delhi) and Nambikai Ellam (Chennai).

"These are special days when we feel we contribute personally to the development of the community around us," said The Walt Disney Company (India) managing director Rajat Jain. "It is amazing to see what each individual can do if they spare a few hours creating magic for the less fortunate. As a company, we are privileged to be a part of this cohesive team across the world."

Last year, Disney donated more than $170 million in cash and in-kind support to various charities around the world while Disney VoluntEars contributed more than 485,000 hours of service to make wishes come true for children and families.