The National “I Have A Dream” Foundation

The National “I Have A Dream” Foundation is responsible for carrying forward the “I Have A Dream” mission and vision, including scaling impact, defining programming, and ensuring the quality of programming throughout the network. The National office is here to empower, support, and grow its local affiliates, and it does so by setting standards and providing tools for programming, defining and amplifying the national brand, leading national marketing and fundraising efforts, forging strategic partnerships, measuring and supporting the impact of all local affiliates, and carrying out enriching events for both Dreamers and staff, including an annual summer college immersion program and staff conference. The National office is available to provide technical assistance to affiliates in areas such as programming, fundraising, operations, and communications. It also seeks out new communities in which to expand the footprint and impact of the “I Have A Dream” mission. 

“I Have A Dream” Foundation Affiliates

An “affiliate” is a local nonprofit organization that has its own Executive Director and Board of Directors, and operates one or more “I Have A Dream” Foundation programs. Affiliates are responsible for the day to day operations of their programs, including staffing, budgeting, and raising funds for all Dreamer programming and tuition promises. 

While each is responsible for maintaining its own 501c3 status, affiliates are responsible for adhering to a set of quality standards defined by the National office, and for paying annual membership dues that support the ongoing infrastructure and support provided by the National office. 

Dreamers & Alumni

In the 40+ years since the “I Have A Dream” Foundation was founded, its programs have touched the lives of hundreds of communities and tens of thousands of students, who are called “Dreamers.” To date, there are nearly 20,000 alumni of the program, forming a rich network of professionals who have gone on to become doctors, diplomats, scientists, and teachers, and many of whom are still actively involved in their local programs and communities. Since “I Have A Dream” programs begin working with Dreamers no later than first grade and stay with them through postsecondary, Dreamers are officially recognized as “alumni” when they complete their postsecondary education or enter the workforce. 

Our Network Today

    News from our Network

    • IHDF Zoominar

      On Tuesday Feb. 16, IHDF hosted a Zoominar covering topics including how COVID-19 has impacted some of our nation’s most vulnerable students and how community based organizations like “I Have A Dream” are in a position to help.

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    • Mentor Spotlight: Ms. Lindsay & Ms. Linda

      Colorado "I Have A Dream" Foundation

      This National Mentoring Month, we’re highlighting the mentors that have supported us—and Dreamers—in our trajectories to and through college and […]

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    • New York Dreamer Essence talks “Girl Power” with the U.N. for #DayoftheGirl

      "I Have A Dream" Foundation - New York

      Today, International Day of the Girl Child (#DayoftheGirl), is all about ensuring girls all over the world  have an equal […]

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    • The Importance of Volunteers

      "I Have A Dream" Foundation Boulder

      Lori Canova, President & CEO of “I Have A Dream” Foundation of Boulder County, reflects on the importance of volunteers […]

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    • Miami Bayview Dreamer Surprised with $30,000 Scholarship

      "I Have A Dream" Foundation Miami Bayview

      Miami Bayview Dreamer Ezekial Hobbs was surprised with a $30,000 scholarship to Florida A&M University by Biscayne Bay Kiwanis Club. […]

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    • Colorado Dreamers Commit on College Signing Day

      Colorado "I Have A Dream" Foundation

      In honor of National College Signing Day and Michelle Obama’s #bettermakeroom initiative, Colorado “I Have A Dream” Foundation graduating seniors […]

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