Dreams For Kids - Changing Lives One Kid At A Time - Dreams for Kids empowers at-risk youth and those with disabilities through dynamic leadership programs and life-changing activities.

Winning

March 14th, 2011 by dane | 3 Comments | Filed in blogs, Erin Lann, Intern Blogs |

If you’ve spent any time following the antics of Charlie Sheen, you’d know that in “Sheen World,” there are but two types of people: Winners (Sheen himself, his publicist, a few select friends, and possibly President Obama) and Trolls (Journalists of ABC News, manufacturers of office phones, pilots, Midwesterners, and a the producers of Two and a Half Men.)

As someone who question’s Mr. Sheen’s sanity, I am certainly categorized as a Troll and should thus be outcast from society. Apparently, I have a lot of evolving to do before I reach a level of intelligence and ability equal to Charlie Sheen’s. Thus my question of the week, “how does one evolve from Troll to Epic Winner?”

Sheen recently announced that he will settle for no less than “Absolute victory” and that “he is on a quest to right every wrong”-which got me thinking. If Dreams For Kids see the isolation of children and teenagers as a wrong that must be dealt with, does that mean that we, too, are on an epic quest for absolute victory? Are the volunteers and participants of Dreams For Kids Epic Winners?

The prospect was almost too much to truly fathom. But the evidence is too prominent to ignore. Charlie Sheen runs on tiger blood; we learned true compassion from a dolphin. Sheen’s behavior makes the news daily; our events gain constant popularity and press every time we organize a function. Sheen believes that if you’re not in his corner, you’re with the Trolls. Dreams For Kids believes that no one should be left sitting on the sidelines of life.

While Dreams For Kids will probably never have more YouTube hits than Charlie Sheen’s latest interview, I think we can surpass him on a different level. Dreams For Kids continues to grow, and we continue to make society a more accessible, welcoming, and compassionate place. Dreams For Kids won’t stop until we’ve ensured that every person is given an equal opportunity, and the world is truly a better place. So, what does that make us? Duh. Winning!

Tags: absolute victory, Charlie Sheen, Dreams For Kids, Epic Winners, isolation, tiger blood, Trolls, Winning

No I in Oscar

March 1st, 2011 by dane | 3 Comments | Filed in blogs, Erin Lann, Intern Blogs |

This year’s Academy Awards honored many incredible films that both moved and enthralled us, as well as acknowledging the hundreds of people who created every aspect of those movies. The Oscars are a culmination of passion and creative vision; not one awarded guest sees his or her job as a way to pay the bills. You simply do not make it to the top without dedication, passion, and true joy for your profession.

No person, I believe, better exemplified the dedication and drive necessary for an Oscar-winning performance than Academy Award Winner Natalie Portman, who spent over a year training in ballet for her role in Black Swan, for which she was nominated.

An elegant Portman, who rocked a maternity gown up and down the red carpet, recognized the achievements of her fellow nominees, and thanked each person that worked on Black Swan, right down to her costume and make-up personnel. Her speech was an ode to the intricate and monstrous amount of collaboration that goes into any Hollywood film. Even the smallest of independent films will have anywhere from ten to thirty people on-set at all times.

It is these rare, candid looks at the film industry that are the most inspirational. So many people work together to realize the same imaginary world, and to contribute to the creative vision for the film. Every person’s contribution is vital to successfully capturing the story on film.

Films are wonderful trust-building exercises, and the rest of us have a lot to learn from that process. Film crews are paid to get together daily and play make-believe. They earned those jobs because they learned how to contribute, and how to trust. The world could use a little movie magic. We, like cinematographers, must rely on one another to make the extraordinary into reality.

Tags: Academy Awards, Dreams For Kids, Natalie Portman, Oscars

Super Bowl, Super Kid

February 10th, 2011 by dane | 4 Comments | Filed in blogs, Erin Lann, Intern Blogs |

Last Sunday, I was one of the 111 million Americans who tuned in to watch Super Bowl XLV commercials. This year, the fan favorite won by a landslide: The Volkswagen ad that features a pint-sized Darth Vader who uses the Force to start the new VW Passat.

The actor, six-year-old Max Page, might be the most adorable intergalactic villian I’ve ever seen. Max and his mom, Jennifer, were recently interviewed on the “Today” show, where Jennifer revealed that at four months old, Max was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect called tetralogy of Fallot and underwent surgery. He has been reliant on a pacemaker ever since. But that hasn’t stopped him from booking gigs with several local commercials and a reoccurring role on “The Young and the Restless” on his already impressive resume.

Max admits that he’s never seen the Star Wars movies; his parents think he’d find the films too scary. So, while he’ll have to wait a few years to see the Sith Lord in action, he certainly has a head start on his Jedi training. For if there is one lesson Yoda has taught us, it’s to live without fear; that fear is the path to the dark side. Dreams For Kids challenges kids to pursue their dreams fearlessly, and to use that inhibition to be a force for change in their communities through compassion and leadership (We’re still working on Jedi mind tricks.)

Max Page is expected to live a healthy and full life with regular maintenance of his pacemaker. his story is a reminder of how much can be accomplished when your dreams are bigger than the obstacles before it. “Just to see him run and play is enough,” his mother said. Jennifer calls her son an inspiration–and I couldn’t agree more.

Tags: Dreams For Kids, Star Wars, Super Bowl, tetralogy of Fallot, Volkswagen

Welcome Aboard Erin!

January 26th, 2011 by dane | 1 Comment | Filed in blogs, Erin Lann, Intern Blogs |

Welcome aboard Erin Lann, Social Media Coordinator

Why did you decide to intern at Dreams For Kids?

To me, Dreams For Kids shows dedication to providing opportunity and resources to underprivileged youth in the United States, and giving hope to children across the world. I wanted to intern for DFK because I believe this organization has an answer to many issues facing the development and success of children and teens in the U.S. and developing nations. It is an international organization desperately needed in a world that has evolved into a plural society.

I was a sports-minded individual. I grew up playing basketball, training in gymnastics, and learning ballet. I was never the point guard or prima ballerina-and when it came to gymnastics, I was downright terrible. But the discipline and team-building skills I learned from athletics provided the building blocks for the way I tackled every endeavor for the rest of my life: with full commitment and dedication to constant improvement.

The ability to participate in sports is one that should be available to every child, regardless of age or ability. The Extreme Recess program, organized through DFK, makes this ability a reality for many kids with disabilities. I am inspired by this program, and believe that it reinforces healthy living, community, and new experiences with each participant. Besides that, it’s fun!

What are your dreams in life, including as a child?

When, I was a kid, I wanted to be the first female Pope. My aunt is a nun, and I spent a lot of time visiting her in the convent when I was a kid. Naturally, I also spent a lot of time with her at Mass. I would watch the pastor stand at the pulpit and preach to the congregation and think, that looks fun. Couple that dream with an innate desire to be President, and you’ve got a ten-year-old Papal candidate.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve focused less on the Vatican and more on the immediate needs of global youth. In college, I avidly supported The Girl Project, an organization dedicated to making a better life for young women in developing countries. While I still aid that organization, I’ve also started to learn more about Dreams For Kids and their global initiatives. I believe DFK embodies a dedication to social change that must be at the core of every organization, company, and corporation, if social change is ever going to be actualized. The only way social change will be an integral part of our society is if it is an integral part of every community member’s personal beliefs. So, whether I’m the Pope, an Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, or the Queen of Siam, propagating social tolerance, acceptance, and change will always be at the heart of my efforts.

What do you hope to gain out of this experience?

I believe that social media is the most direct way to get a message into the community, and to raise awareness to social needs. Through this internship, I hope to perfect my social media skills and thereby help Dreams For Kids better gain support and endorsement, so that the organization can continue to grow. The larger Dreams For Kids becomes, the more people it will be able to reach out to and aid.

Meet Michael!

January 26th, 2011 by dane | 1 Comment | Filed in blogs, Intern Blogs |

Meet Michael Jones, Grant Writing Coordinator

What is your personal description of the mission of DFK?

The Dreams For Kids mission is to empower kids with confidence and belief that they can achieve their goals in life and help others do the same. This is accomplished by cultivating feelings of hope and togetherness.

Why did you decide to intern at DFK?

I decided that now is the time I wanted to devote myself to making real and measurable contributions to the community. I also have an interest in grant writing, so it was perfect timing to have the opportunity to contribute to a great organization like Dreams For Kids.

What are you dreams in life, including when you were a child?

I’m a dreamer, no doubt about it. One of my dreams is to start a non-profit school in Chicago devoted to providing free music education to kids. I also dream of one day traveling the world as a musician. Lastly, I dream of returning to school to become a doctor of engineering.

What do you hope to gain out of this experience?

I know I’m going to gain a lot. The rewarding feeling of contributing to a good organization, meeting lots of great people, gaining experience grant writing and working with NPO’s in general. If through our efforts we gain funding, I will be the happiest person in the room for at least a week.

Better the 2nd time around

October 29th, 2010 by dane | 1 Comment | Filed in blogs, Dane Smimizu |

On the morning of October 23rd, the weather was cloudy and rainy and thoughts of no children coming to the event ran through my head. As the day progressed, in typical Dreams for Kids fashion, the weather cleared and a pleasant afternoon emerged for the 2nd Annual Extreme Recess: Fall Fest at Patch 22 farm (Wadsworth, IL)

The children and their families who came to the event were able to enjoy a petting zoo, which included a baby cow, rabbits, giant turkeys, and a rooster who wouldn’t stop crowing. After petting the various animals, everyone loaded up into the wagon and enjoyed a horse drawn wagon ride through the countryside. A horse drawn wagon ride on a spectacular late fall afternoon put everyone in the spirit of the event.

Back at the farm, each child was able to enjoy a variety of arts & crafts, some yummy fall themed snacks, and pick out their very own pumpkin! Picking out their own pumpkin was a daunting task for some of the children. Thoughts of “do I want the biggest one”, “one with all the warts”, or “the short round one,” must have crossed each child’s mind. In the end, each child was able to find their own perfect pumpkin and everyone left with happy memories of a fun afternoon spent at the pumpkin patch.

Thank you to all the participants and their families for attending another great Fall Fest. A special thank you to Carrie Whitfield, Extreme Recess coordinator, for all her hard working putting together a fantastic event for all involved.

Kelly's Story

October 26th, 2010 by kgerson | No Comments | Filed in Dream Leader Stories |

I moved throughout my whole life, and having to always try to gain new friends has been a challenge for me. Dream Leaders has opened up my life to an opportunity of fulfilling my desires and because of Dream Leaders I have met so many new people who have given me different perspectives in life. My life at home is crazy enough trying to deal with a load of responsibilities and when I go to Dream Leaders Conference’s or any other events, I feel that others know where I am coming from. I don’t feel left out. Now, I feel the need to spread love to those who need it more.

For my take action project, I started my own after-school school club at my high school. I meet with a group of other teens every other week, and I run Dream Leaders activities for them to build our leadership skills and teach them about all different issues such as homelessness, hunger, and disabilities. We then do projects for each topic like can drives, toy drives, and fundraisers. I have always wanted to be involved in some kind of non profit because I just love putting smiles on to other’s faces. Dream Leaders has influenced my life forever. One thing I know for sure about Dream Leaders is that everyone is caring, considerate, and amazingly genuine and that’s why I keep them so dear to my heart.

Cortez's Story

October 26th, 2010 by kgerson | No Comments | Filed in Dream Leader Stories |

First, I must say that we should stop saying that I am telling my story as a means to inspire others. I feel that the events in my life have empowered me to do good in the world.

I was born on December 25, 1991. I weighed 1pound and 7ounces in addition to having asthma and a hole in my heart. I was born premature since my parents did drugs before conceiving me which was stopping me to develop into a full baby. I stayed in the hospital a couple of moths before I was able to come home. Ideally I had to fight to stay alive since my body was underdeveloped.

When I arrived home my father was in jail and my grandmother decided to take me in since my mother was unable to. She raised me with love and care and always told me to be educated. I entered into school and excelled at my coursework, I had a different outlook on education than everyone. I then began to surpass everyone that they began calling me names like gay, nerd, lame and etc. Growing up in a family with no role models, and who either did drugs or sold drugs there was no room for emotions. I grew up becoming a stone cold individual fighting my way through school gained the respect of my family and peers. It wasn’t until I got into a fight with my father did I find out how badly I could be beaten.

At some point in my life I began to think about the things that I have done and realized that I am much better than that. I then started treating myself with respect and setting standards for the people that I associate myself with. I wanted to surround myself with positive energy and see where it would take me. It was through a series of fortunate events that I was connected to the organization Dream for Kids. I am elated to say that once I was connected with Dream for Kids I learned my true potential as a leader. There were many times that I thought coming from the “ghetto” that I would not be able to amount to anything but a mere statistic further perpetuating the degradation of African-Americans.

It is Dream for Kids that have developed me into a leader and taught me to take action. I cannot express my gratitude for this because I interacted with a wide range of people who I never thought I would interact with. I am slowly watching my action plan come off the ground and become reality. I intend on changing the world and Dream for Kids is giving me the tools to do so.

Carrie's Story

October 26th, 2010 by kgerson | No Comments | Filed in Dream Leader Stories |

I was born on August 27, 1989 with Cerebral Palsy. When I was four I was put in Foster Care. Growing up in a foster home showed me that there were kids just like me who needed a home and someone to love them. A few months before my ninth birthday, I was adopted. If it weren’t for my parents I wouldn’t be where I am now. I probably would not have my high school diploma or be living at ICRE, a facility for young adults with disabilities.

At ICRE, I was introduced to the Dream Leaders Program run by Dreams for Kids. With the help of Dream Leaders, I realized I want to do more. How do I do more? I am so proud that with the Dream Leaders from ICRE, and the other students in Dreams For Kids, we raised enough money to send not one wheelchair but five wheelchairs to developing countries I love the program and want to keep it alive, but to me being a Dream Leader means so much more than just raising money. To me, it’s more about giving someone another person to talk to, giving them hope, and letting them know they CAN.

Aside from the things I’m doing for Dreams for Kids, I’m participating in programs that ICRE itself has to offer. Programs such as The W.E. (a student ran Basket Program), and The O Sew Personal (an embroidering program). I also help the younger kids with their homework. If all this doesn’t tell you why I love being a Dream Leader, let alone why I love working for Dreams for Kids, then I don’t know what does. Life is more than people realize.

As the song” The Climb” says, “Life’s a climb” it doesn’t matter how you get there, It matters what’s on the other side!

George Lopez

October 26th, 2010 by kgerson | No Comments | Filed in blogs |

When I was 4 years of age, I was taken away from my mother and put into government care. My mother was on all types of drugs, she was an alcoholic and she had no money. That same year we were placed in one home for two years. You would think we were happy there, but we were not. I was mentally and physically abused every day, simply because I was not their child from birth. When I was eight years old, our house was broken into and my foster father was shot right in front of me. I watched him die. He bled to death. We were moved from that household that same night. This is the same night my sister, brother and I were all separated.

I continued going from home to home until I was 11 years old. I was placed into a group home and I felt unloved. I was sick and tired of someone who would get in my face and tell me that they would give me a “try” and give me up a month later. When I was 12 I was introduced to Miss Jeanette Dixon, my mother. When she met me I was just a little brat! I thought I knew everything that there was to know in the world and had taught myself not listen to anyone who would turn their backs on me. Well Ms. Dixon was not that easy to push away. That’s exactly what I needed at that time in my life. She helped me through the last years of grade school and when I got to high school I ranked pretty high in my class. Now I have a chance at accomplishing my dream of becoming an architect to create sustainable and economical houses.

Dream Leaders has exposed me to a world from which my eyes have been hidden. Now, I realize what it truly means to be a Dream Leader. Being a Dream Leader classifies you as being the type of person that will go out of your way to help others in need; to help others who without you would be left alone to deal with their problems; to look at the world with open eyes and open hands; to inspire the millions of people who are pushed aside, abused, and neglected because of their race, social class, and disabilities; to inspire a world unlike any other, a world more like a dream, a dream inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King.