I HAVE A DREAM FOUNDATION

Program Strategy & Design - The "I Have A Dream" Foundation increases the organization's impact by constantly evaluating and improving our efforts to support current Affiliates and Chapters. The Foundation conducts annual surveys to evaluate current program offerings across the Network and provides resources to address areas that need improvement. The Foundation has implemented a college savings account (CSA) program at several Affiliates, with the goal of rolling out the program across the broader network. Using a cohort model, each Dreamer Scholar journey stretches over more than a decade of wrap-around programming. Throughout, we maintain a holistic approach that centers Dreamer Scholars overall well-being and anticipates developing needs and areas of focus as they reach new milestones. This ensures that the youth in our cohorts receive the broad-based, consistent support they need over time to develop into healthy, productive adults. Affiliate and Chapter staff stay closely connected with students throughout their schooling and beyond, offering a trusted and guiding presence. Six core pillars guide our year-round programming:Academic Enrichment & Support: Dreamer Scholars receive general and targeted academic support to excel from kindergarten through college.Socio-Emotional Learning & Life Skills: Our programs are designed to help students develop healthy identities, achieve goals, show empathy for others, establish and maintain relationships, and make responsible, healthy decisions.Family Partnership & Engagement: We work with families to include them in the process so we can work as partners in helping their students thrive.Post-Secondary Preparation and Work Readiness: Dreamer Scholars engage with staff and community partners to chart a path to reach their postsecondary and career aspirations and gain workplace readiness skills through career workshops, job tours and paid internships. IHDF also provides a guaranteed post-secondary scholarship. Mentoring & Support Networks: Dreamer Scholars are matched with long-term, reliable, supportive, and caring adults who provide individualized guidance and connection and serve as positive role models.Leadership & Civic Engagement: We promote community engagement and civic leadership, instilling Dreamer Scholars with the sense of belonging and responsibility that comes from being part of a larger community.