Who We Are
We Empower Youth & Families
Our Mission
The mission of the “I Have A Dream” Foundation-Dallas is to empower children from under-resourced communities to succeed in school, college, and career by providing academic, social, and emotional support from elementary school through college, along with postsecondary tuition assistance.
Our Vision
Our dream is a world where every child has equal access to the educational and career opportunities that will ignite their innate potential.
Our Values
Equity
We believe every young person deserves a fair chance. We meet Dream Scholars and their families where they are and ensure they have the tools, opportunities, and support they need to grow, succeed, and lead, regardless of background or circumstance.
Integrity
We lead with honesty, accountability, and consistency. Our words and actions align, and we follow through on our commitments to our colleagues, our community, and the families we serve.
Community-Centered
We are deeply connected to the communities we serve. Our work is grounded in relationships, informed by listening, and shaped by the lived experiences of Dream Scholars and their families.
High-Impact, High-Quality
We set a high bar because the work matters. From programming to partnerships, we strive for excellence because delivering with care and intention creates real, lasting results.
Adaptability
We stay flexible and responsive. Through regular reflection and feedback from students, families, and partners, we adjust and evolve to stay aligned with what matters most.
Partnership
Progress is a shared effort. We collaborate with schools, organizations, and individuals who are committed to supporting young people and building thriving communities.
Social Justice
We stand against racism and all forms of oppression. We work to expand access, break down barriers, and help shape a future rooted in fairness, dignity, and inclusion.
Belonging
We create spaces where every student and family feels seen, heard, and valued. Belonging is essential to learning, growing, and leading.
Our History
“An impulsive move on the part of one visionary man sparked a national movement to positively impact the lives of children in low-income communities from coast to coast…”
“I Have A Dream” Foundation In Dallas
The “I Have A Dream” Foundation has a rich history in Dallas beginning in 1987. Since our founding, we’ve served more than 2,000 students and counting.
Our National Roots
The “I Have A Dream” Foundation was founded in New York City in 1981 by philanthropist Eugene M. Lang. After speaking to a class of sixth graders at P.S. 121 in East Harlem - his former elementary school - he promised to provide financial support for a college education to every student who finished high school. Lang kept his promise and then some, adding year-round academic and social support for dream scholars and their families. Six years later, nearly 90% of his dream scholars graduated from high school – more than three times the expected average graduation rate of students from the neighborhood.
IHDF has since expanded to support a network of affiliates and chapters across the U.S. and New Zealand.
A Proven, Two-Generational Approach
For more than 40 years, we’ve made a long-term commitment to students and their families—supporting over 18,000 Dream Scholars across the country. Our two-generational (2Gen) model provides sustained access to resources, encouragement, and opportunities that promote academic success, personal growth, and economic stability. From first grade through post-secondary education and into the workforce, our comprehensive support ensures students and families have the tools and guidance needed to overcome barriers and achieve their goals.