Dream Cities | Orlando, FL
2220 W. 29th Street.
Orlando, FL 32805
Phone: 407-245-1810 x 2340
Fax: 407-245-1820
Learning Center DirectorCarvel Munroecmunroe  usdreamacademy [dot] org | Mentor CoordinatorAnthony Alonsoaalonso usdreamacademy [dot] org |
Feature Story
On Monday, February 14,
2011, children at the U.S. Dream Academy Learning Center in Orlando, Florida
were astounded by a surprise visit from NBA All Star, Dwight Howard, as part of
the official launch of the D12 Foundation.
It was truly a memorable moment as students who had gathered for a motivational
assembly, received an inspirational message from gospel recording artist
Wintley Phipps, founder and CEO of the U.S. Dream Academy. Shortly thereafter, students burst into
spontaneous cheer as Dwight Howard walked through the classroom door. As one student put it, “It was like seeing an angel,” - Charlie (7th grade). “He
told us to never give up and to dream and achieve.” For Charlie, who has heard many stories about
how the Dream Academy is supported by the generosity
of others, this was the first time seeing someone actually give a check to help
his learning center.
The $10,000 donation from the D12 Foundation will enable the Dream Academy
Learning Center
in Orlando to
intensify the efforts with the leadership development for middle school students
through the Dream Troopers initiative. Dream
Troopers is a program designed to teach the disciplines of self-control, teamwork
and determination while building social skills and courtesy towards others. It will also strengthen the Summer Enrichment
program enabling children to remain in an environment that involves them in
building skills, character, as well as discovering and nurturing their dreams.
While seeing the check was revitalizing, having that up close, personal
interaction with Dwight Howard was a big morale booster for the children who
were elated to have the NBA All Star all to themselves. Dwight was speaking their language. Lisena (8th grade) stated, “Something that I learned from Dwight Howard
is that hard work really does pay off and you have to work hard for what you
want.” Dwight’s magic seemed to have a similar effect on everyone. “I am just motivated by the fact that he was
able to do something that other people told him he was not able to do. That makes me want to go with my own dreams.” – Mariana (7th grade)
As Dwight prepared to leave
he signed autographs for a few students, inquiring of each student’s GPA and
challenged them to keep it up.
Our History in Orlando
The Dream Academy Learning Center in Orlando opened their doors at Memorial Middle School in 2007. The multiracial student body at Memorial Middle School comes from predominantly low socio-economic family backgrounds. The Center serves 60 children with multiple risk factors in and around the Rio Grande Community. The center also serves the 4th and 5th grade students of neighboring Catalina Elementary School.
The Dream Academy staff maintains a strong relationship with the school being viewed as a stellar academic enrichment program by the principal, guidance counselors, and many teachers. One unique asset of the program is Kids Court, a peer mediation activity that empowers students to take control of their actions and consequences.
About Our Staff
Learning Center DirectorCarvel Munroe is an emerging voice of hope, educating and empowering the now generation to live above the moral lows and emerge as candidates for lasting success. He is Founder of the High-Risk Prevention Network and Director of the U.S. Dream Academy Learning Center in Orlando. This advocate for youth ministers to break spiritual and social bondage. Winner of the Mack Davis Award in 2000 for outstanding service and featured in the Harvard University Gazette, the dedicated husband and father of three sons resides in Central Florida where he continues to be an instrument of transformation for at-risk individuals and communities. | Mentor CoordinatorAnthony Alonso serves the Orlando center as Mentor Coordinator. In 2007, Mr. Alonso received his B.A. from the University of Florida with areas of specialization in Nonprofit Leadership and Family, Youth, and Community Development. Prior to joining the US Dream Academy, he served as a youth pastor, advocate for mentoring children at risk of incarceration, and recreation supervisor with the city of Cape Canaveral. These roles helped to cultivate a passion to see today’s youth dream big for their future and rise above the low expectations their circumstances create for them. Anthony Alonso serves the Orlando center as Mentor Coordinator. In 2007, Mr. Alonso received his B.A. from the University of Florida with areas of specialization in Nonprofit Leadership and Family, Youth, and Community Development. Prior to joining the US Dream Academy, he served as a youth pastor, advocate for mentoring children at risk of incarceration, and recreation supervisor with the city of Cape Canaveral. These roles helped to cultivate a passion to see today’s youth dream big for their future and rise above the low expectations their circumstances create for them. |
Our Orlando Partners in the Dream
Girls Scouts of Citrus Council
Keep a Promise Ministry
Adonai’s House
University of Central Florida
Saigon Tae Kwon Do
Oley’s Restaurant
Mears Transportation
Orlando Magic
City of Orlando Waste Management
Upcoming Events
There are no upcoming events scheduled for this learning center at this time. Please check back later.
