DreamCommUnity

An Online Community for Teens

DreamCommUnity

Teens who have a parent in prison face many new challenges that their other classmates do not which can sometimes result in isolation or feelings of loneliness.  Often teens separated from a parent due to incarceration may also feel anxious, depressed, anger and a sense of powerlessness.


This is why the DreamCommUnity's mission is to focus on creating a safe space for teens to share, learn and receive tools that will guide them through this difficult time while also providing  support and empower their future.


This online community is designed to equip teens to find their voice, build social connections, identify their emotions and to discover the purpose within them.

Student in locker area
Happy student in front of her laptop
Student joining the online class
Students in

FAQs

Hi there! Have some questions about the program? Find the answers below. 

  • How often does the DreamCommunity meet?

    The DreamCommUnity is a ten session curriculum designed to have participants meet virtually once each week. However, in some instances we may meet twice a week if the participants all agree.

  • Is the program virtual, in-person, or both?

    The program will meet virtually. There are no in-person options available. 

  • What is the cost for a teen to join the program?

    There is no cost or fee for a teen participant to join the DreamCommUnity. 

  • What are the topics that will be discussed in each session?

    The ten session curriculum will focus on topics such as self care, stress management, overcoming obstacles, managing relationships, and much more! 

  • What is the age group that qualifies a teen to join?

    The DreamCommUnity serves  highschool students/teens. The age range is generally 14-19. 

  • What is the purpose of this program?

    Over 2.7 million children nationwide currently have at least one parent incarcerated, while it is estimated that over 10 million people have experienced parental incarceration at some point in their lives. The resultant trauma, disruption, shame and stigma associated with parental incarceration combines to create adverse childhood experiences. This is why the DreamCommUnity's mission is to focus on creating a safe space for teens to share, learn and receive tools that will guide, support and empower their future. This online community is designed to equip teens to find their voice, build social connections, identify their emotions and to discover the purpose within them. 

  • What if a teen participant is enrolled but can not attend a session?

    Upon enrollment, each participant will be given a person of contact to notify about their absence. To get the greatest benefit from this CommUnity it is  ideal for participants to attend each session but we also understand if they are unable to attend.  We only ask that the participant notify the contact person ahead of time. 

  • What will a teen participant need in order to participate in the program?

    All teen participants will need access to a device (laptop or tablet) and wifi to connect to each online session.  It is best if all participants are on camera as we get to know each other however we understand there may be times when a participant cannot be on camera. 

  • What happens if a teen participant is on the waitlist?

    Due to the amount of online applicants received, many participants may be added to our waitlist. If this occurs, participants on the waitlist will be prioritized to join the next session enrollment. 

  • Who should I contact if I still have questions or need clarification?

    For further assistance, please email  us at info@usdreamacademy.org 

Our Partners


A special note of thanks to our expert content developers: Dr. Angela Charlton, Dr. Whitney Hollins,

Rashonda Greggs, Social Work Intern (Limestone University) working along with U.S. Dream staff Camara Watkins, LSCW and Diane Wallace Booker, Esq.



A special note of thanks to NFL Inspire Change Initiative for funding this project.

Have questions? Interested in learning more?

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