A Child with a Dream is a Child with a Future - Wintley Phipps, Founder

Dream Cities | Indianapolis, IN

John Marshall Middle School
10101 E. 38th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46235
Phone: (317) 693-5015
Learning Center Director
Tina L. Rhoden-Lewellyn
tlewellynatusdreamacademy [dot] org
Mentor Coordinator
Jacqui Hughes
jhughesatusdreamacademy [dot] org

Feature Story

Ask the Indianapolis Learning Center DreamKids, and they’ll tell you, “It’s better to give than to receive.”  After an apartment complex, directly across from the Center, was devastated by a tornado in May 2009, Indianapolis DreamKids came together to help. 

 Moved by the need of their neighbors, the DreamKids planned and organized a car wash to raise funds, and solicited donations of clothing and toiletries.  Through their hard work, $400 was raised and put toward purchasing rolling luggage.  The students then filled each suitcase with age and gender specific items.  The gifts were hand delivered to the displaced families, and the DreamKids were able to see firsthand how they could make a difference. 

 “This event came straight out of the hearts of our students,” said Center Director Tina Rhoden-Lewellyn.  “Their compassion is very inspiring, and I’m so happy that although they have their own challenges, they’re able to look beyond their circumstances and find ways to address community challenges.  That’s the dream of the Indianapolis Learning Center.”  

Our History in Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Learning Center opened its doors in January of 2008 with the unwavering support of USA Funds, the Office of Faith Based and Community Programs, One America and other committee partners listed below who make up the Indy Dream Team.  The program, which continues to function with the help and support of the advisory "Dream Team", has utilized John Marshall's year round calendar to serve over 120 students since it’s inception, helping to build skills, character and develop dreams through innovative tutoring and mentoring initiatives. 

About Our Staff

Learning Center Director

Tina Rhoden-Lewellyn brings over 17 years experience to her position as Center Director for the Indianapolis Learning Center.  Prior to joining the Center, Ms. Rhoden-Lewellyn served as the Executive Director of a social service organization overseeing residential treatment, home-based services and alternative education programs.  Ms. Rhoden-Lewellyn studied social sciences at Indiana University and continually enhances her knowledge by attending conferences and training workshops such as, therapeutic crisis intervention, Servant Leadership and non-profit management.  She has also served on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Youth Services Association.       

Mentor Coordinator

Jacqui Hughes has devoted her professional career to serving her community.  Before joining the Indianapolis Learning Center as Mentor Coordinator, Ms. Hughes served as a banker and fundraiser for the United Way of Central Indiana.  With a deep passion for child advocacy, Ms. Hughes maintains a foster care license, trains other foster parents, and engages in efforts to develop young minds through the power of dreams, education and mentor relationships.  Ms. Hughes graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and African American Studies.  She also holds a Master of Science degree in Management from Indiana Wesleyan University. 

 

Our Indianapolis Partners in the Dream

USA Funds

One America

The Pacers Foundation

The Nina Mason Pulliam Trust

Indianapolis Public Schools

The Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives

Marion County Probation

Indiana University School of Education

The Moore Foundation

Gleaners Food Bank

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events scheduled for this learning center at this time. Please check back later.