Our Beginning...
In 2004, the Community Concentration of the UB School of Social Work spearheaded the UB
DREAM Program. The acronym DREAM stands for: Developing Relationships through
Empowerment, Advocacy, and Motivation. Over the course of serving others, The DREAM Program has stayed true to our mission of “providing families support for short-term success in their living environment and long-term success in our greater community.” Fortunately, over this next year, we are expanding our mission to “providing support, friendship, and advocacy to individuals of all ages.”
The UB DREAM Team originally held “DREAM Night” every Saturday evening from 6:00 pm to 10:00 p.m. at Gerard Place, a transitional housing facility offering support and services for homeless, single parents and their children. The night consisted of sharing movies, games, food and warm conversation with residents. The purpose of this evening was to give residents a communication outlet in a comfortable setting and to foster the development of community spirit. In February 2006, based on changing needs at Gerard Place, DREAM Night ended. However, the DREAM TEAM continued a successful bi-weekly education enrichment program designed to assist residents with GED attainment and other educational goals. As needs were met and changes continued to take place, the DREAM Program ventured out.
Today...
The UB DREAM Team is in our seventh year of operation. We are currently working with The Girls Sports Foundation (GSF); the Lutheran Church Home (LCH); and Vive, Inc.; all located in the City of Buffalo.
The DREAM Program operates strictly on a volunteer basis. Each student/member is encouraged to participate as possible; however, there is no minimum or maximum requirement to be a volunteer. All the program asks for is open communication between members and that volunteers maintain their own commitments.
