I Have a Dream

About IHAD

The "I Have a Dream" program is modeled after the first effort started by Eugene Lang in 1981 with the sixth grade class of primary school #121 in East Harlem, NY. To help students achieve their dreams, Lang offered to help with the college tuition of those in the class who graduated from high school. Mr. Lang also hired a full-time social worker to follow their progress and assist each of the students and their families. As a result, the dropout rate fell dramatically. Today, "I Have a Dream," inspired by Eugene Lang's effort, has launched more than 175 projects in 60 cities, helping over 14,000 children achieve their dreams.

"If not for the 'I Have a Dream' program and the encouragement and support it provides, many of these students would not be in school today." - Paul Schroeder, Project Coordinator

"It's given me drive when I thought about giving up. But you can't give up when you have this opportunity." - Aleigha Relgor, Dreamer

"I don't know anything else I've been involved in that has potential to make such a long term difference in this community." - Mary Granger, Organizer and Sponsor

"It's more than money for college. It's help and support." - Molly Gifford, Dreamer

"The payoff is seeing the graduating Dreamers going on to further education. We've opened up their vision of what their full potential can be." - Ed Lynch, Sponsor

I Have a Dream, Southwest Washington.