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At IHAD-Charlottesville, we believe that all children deserve the
opportunity to achieve their dreams. Our mission is to help Dreamers
become productive, contributing members to society. Our seven Guiding
Principals drive how IHAD enables children to Dream Big. We believe
in:
- Enriching Young Minds: The foundational belief of the
“I Have A Dream” Foundation is that education is the
key to unlocking dreams. Through after-school tutoring and summer
educational programs, as well as in-school assistance, we support
Dreamers in achieving their academic potential.
- Creating Trust and Respect: Participation in IHAD provides
a crucial supply of positive relationships with caring adults
outside of the family. Research has proven the value of providing
youth with this “social capital,” whether Dreamers
are networking to broaden their horizons or coping with difficult
situations. We also facilitate personal bonds among Dreamers through
large and small group activities that build a positive group affiliation
and sense of community.
- Exploring the World Beyond Our Neighborhood: Imagination
is fed by experience! Regular field trips provide Dreamers with
the opportunity to explore colleges and universities, cultural
institutions, diverse career paths, and more.
- Healthy Habits Training: We reinforce the value of taking
good care of their bodies and making good choices as adolescents.
- Involving Families: The Project Coordinator and Sponsors
connect with individual families through frequent family activities,
communication, and home visits. Parents and guardians are empowered
to identify issues and connect with community resources, and thus
become advocates for their families.
- Looking towards the future: Dreamers set goals, both
short- and long-term, to help them develop a vision for their
future. In preparation for higher education and the working world,
we reinforce the skills and behaviors that Dreamers need to represent
themselves in a positive way.
- Being Good Neighbors: Because Dreamers benefit from many
opportunities through their participation in IHAD, we stress the
value of serving others. Through a variety of community service
projects, Dreamers learn how to be active citizens that contribute
to their community in creative ways.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES? See what’s
new and notable with IHAD. |