Our History
Winter 1998
May 1999
Spring 2001
The Beginning of DREAM
The program began in 1998 when Kathryn Ross, an AmeriCorps member, was assigned to provide after-school programming for nearly 100 children living at Templeton Court Apartments, a Section 8 housing development. Kathryn connected with Dartmouth students who quickly organized themselves into a weekly mentoring program that became known as DREAM (Directing through Recreation, Education, Adventure, and Mentoring).
The Birth of our Yellow and Blue T-Shirt
By May 1999, more than 30 mentoring pairs participated in bold adventures, laying the foundation for DREAM’s High Adventure program. Fundraising efforts allowed trips to Boston, Colorado, Montreal, and Washington DC. DREAM's iconic yellow and blue t-shirts were created during this time as a safety precaution for keeping track of participants on their first big trip to Boston.
Founding the Non-Profit
In 2001, two graduating mentors founded The DREAM Program nonprofit organization with the vision of having loving adults meaningfully involved in children’s lives, aiming to help them achieve their dreams and have fun.
2001 - 2006
Spring 2009
2009 - 2015
Expanding and Establishing Camp DREAM
DREAM expanded to the University of Vermont, Champlain College, St. Michael's College, and nearby communities. To address programming gaps during mentors' summer and winter breaks, DREAM hired interns and purchased land in Fletcher, Vermont, establishing Camp DREAM for year-round adventure experiences.
Reaching Boston, MA
In 2009, DREAM expanded to Boston, partnering with Boston University and the Orchard Gardens community; and Northeastern University and the Madison Park community. This marked a significant adaptation from rural to urban settings.
Reaching Philadelphia, PA
DREAM continued to grow, expanding to Philadelphia with programs at Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania. Camp DREAM in Northern Vermont remained a central adventure destination for all regions.
2019 - Spring 2021
Summer 2021
Summer 2024 -
Navigating the Pandemic
During the Covid-19 pandemic, DREAM provided virtual adventures and mentoring sessions. Highlights included video calls with dolphins and DREAM staff delivering supplies, learning materials, and snacks to communities. Activity books and summer adventure magazines helped keep smiles alive.
Return to In-Person Programming
In Summer 2021, DREAM resumed in-person programming with eight weeks of daily Summer Enrichment led by SummerCorps Staff, celebrating the return of community connection. See Video
Growing in Philadelphia, PA
Recently, DREAM expanded outreach to more sites across Philadelphia, continuing to grow and impact more communities.