Resources For New Directors

DREAM Board Members are selected based on their demonstrated commitment to DREAM’s mission as well as for their professional expertise, leadership experience, and access to resources they can bring to the organization.

Our Mission

Originally founded as Harlem RBI, DREAM traces its beginnings to 1991, when a group of volunteers transformed an abandoned, garbage-strewn lot into two baseball diamonds for the youth of East Harlem. Over three decades later, we serve thousands of children across East Harlem and the Bronx through a network of free, extended-day, extended-year DREAM Charter Schools and community-based youth programs.

By developing a whole child model that is responsive to the unique academic and social needs of every child, DREAM is creating a future where all children are equipped to fulfill their vision of success.

Our mission ensures that all young people recognize their potential and realize their dreams. We level the playing field in our schools and communities by investing in the whole child from early childhood to early adulthood.

The DREAM model is a unique network of college preparatory network focusing not only on key academic levers of success, but also explicitly building the key social-emotional skills that low-income students need to thrive and launch into a healthy adult life.

DREAM Board of Directors

The fundamental role of DREAM’s Board of Directors is to provide strategic guidance and ensure that there are adequate resources to accomplish DREAM’s goals, and that these resources are used appropriately. Members partner with DREAM’s Executive Leadership Team to use their expertise to enhance the strategy of the organization.

DREAM Board Members:

Are knowledgeable about the organization - its mission, strengths, and needs - and participate in core DREAM activities on a periodic basis.
Strengthen the organization’s fiscal health through their own personal financial generosity and by serving as active, enthusiastic fundraisers.
Create connections between their personal networks and DREAM’s work on an ongoing basis that lead to lasting partnerships.
Attend quarterly Board meetings and are prepared to help formulate policy for the organization.
Serve on Board committees (at least one annually) as appropriate. Current committees, both standing and ad hoc, include:
- - Executive
  - Audit
  - Compensation
  - Finance
  - Development
  - Integration
  - Nominating
  - College & Career
Are available for consultation and willing to use expertise at a level that will enhance the organization.
Are ambassadors for the organization with relevant public constituencies.

Additional Volunteer Leadership Bodies

The DREAM Board of Directors works in tandem with the DREAM Charter School (DCS) Board on all the policies related to our DCS students. One member of the DREAM Board also serves on the DCS Board, and the DCS Board Chair attends all DREAM Board meetings. The DREAM Ambassadors are a diverse group of next-generation and established leaders united by DREAM's goal of leveling the playing field for all children. Ambassadors work together to help us dream big—elevating DREAM's fundraising potential, broadening our connections, and amplifying our DEI vision.

Learn more about DREAM’s work and impact through the following resources:

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