Our Network

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. 

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