Tips on Tuesday: Free Day at Disney in 2010

Have you heard the buzz for 2010?? Disney is attempting to give away 1,000,000 free admissions to either Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California.

How can you get your free one day pass? It's a new program being rolled out by Disney called "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day." Disney has partnered with HandsOn Network to create a little magic around the country. HandsOn Network is a clearinghouse for volunteer opportunities. They will help connect people to projects and will certify that the work was done.

"We are trying to inspire 1 million people to volunteer in their communities and we're inspiring them to do that by giving them a free day at a Disney park," Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, said in a phone interview with The Associated Press.

HandsOn Network has 70,000 affiliated agencies, from Habitat for Humanity to local food banks, churches, health care centers, and educational programs. Once a person has completed their service, it will be verified by HandsOn and volunteers can then print out an online certificate that can be redeemed at a Disney park.

I read through all the FAQ's. You need to be aware that you must be 18 or older to register on the site. Once registered, you can add up to eight additional people from your household. Children may participate in certain projects and may earn a free day at Disney. Children must be between the ages of 6-17 in order to participate and earn a free day. Their volunteer service must be completed with an adult. Limit one free day per person.

I know their 'Free admission on your birthday' program was a huge success this year. That program ends at the end of 2009. For 2010, Disney has taken what I consider a unique approach to giving away free days. I'm excited to see what one million people helping in their community will look like. Sign up at the website to get an email to register. Registration for the program is not yet open, but you can sign up to be reminded to register when it does open.

If you're thinking about a Disney trip in 2010, I'd suggest considering Giving a Day to Get a Disney Day.