Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Dreamcatcher Initiative
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 1452 Dorchester Ave, 3rd Floor, Suite 4
City: Boston
State: MA
Postal Code: 02124
Main Phone: 857-244-0342
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.dreamcatcherinitiative.org/
Employer ID Number: 81-1859394
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3-29-23
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Preparing Our Women for Everyday Readiness (POWER)
Project Description:

Dreamcatcher Initiative (DCI) aims to eliminate hopelessness in underserved populations by creating pathways and programs that help youth achieve their dreams and realize their potential. Our POWER program works with girls ages 15-21 to help them successfully achieve their dreams and prevent negative cycles of behavior (i.e., justice involvement, substance use, etc.). POWER begins with understanding participants’ starting place, needs, and goals. Then, we strengthen their foundation together. DCI makes sure that participants know their journey is their own. Our only role is to give guidance by offering preparedness, readiness, and opportunity.
According to a study conducted by the Dove Self-Esteem Fund, “seven in ten girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in some way, including their looks, performance in school, and relationships.” POWER creates a space for young women, specifically those in marginalized populations, to share their stories while building new avenues for positive change. We help them harness their inner power so they can thrive in the face of any challenge. POWER has two phases, or “journeys,” that are explored over a four-month period. Journey One is Preparedness, during which we explore the importance of thinking, feeling, and understanding ourselves, our choices, and our bodies. Together, we discover new ways to heal and prepare for our landscape. Journey Two is Readiness. This phase develops key skills and strategies that promote success, such as financial literacy, social engagement & authentic connections, leadership, and confidence. We encourage participants to show up for themselves and teach them how to be better equipped to handle the unexpected. POWER gatherings have storytelling, power-building, laughter, healing, and vulnerability. We embrace each person holistically through our participatory approach, authentic relationship building, and unconditional acceptance of individuality.

Total Project Budget: $66,071

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Other potential funding sources include the Looking Out Foundation, G. Roxy and Elizabeth C. Martin Foundation Grants, Sky Ranch Foundation, and other local funding opportunities that may arise in and around the City of Boston. We anticipate continuing to apply for and seek new potential sources as they are released.

Project Duration: 2 yearly cycles lasting 4 months (8 months total)
Geographical Area Served: Suffolk County/Boston Area
Age Group To Be Served: 15-21

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Alexis
Contact Last Name: Major
Contact Title: COO/Director of Programs
Contact Phone: 857-244-0342
Contact Email: alexis@dciboston.org