DREAM
 Since January 2004, CityDance Early Arts and the Many Hats Institute have partnered to create the DREAM (Dream, Research, Evaluate, Act, Motivate) program, an ambitious initiative designed to bring after-school dance, arts education, and community-building programs to underprivileged youth in the DC metropolitan area.
The curriculum for the DREAM program empowers children to identify their dreams and gain the confidence and self-esteem to pursue those dreams through community-building projects. Developed by CityDance Ensemble in conjunction with the Many Hats Institute’s “Reach Your Peak” program, the DREAM curriculum teaches students through a variety of disciplines, including dance, creative writing, and financial literacy.
The DREAM program consists of a kick-off performance for the entire school by CityDance Ensemble, a 24-week after-school program that meets twice a week, and a student performance that brings children together from all the DREAM schools. Each spring, DREAM students also have the opportunity to perform during the half-time show at an NBA Washington Wizards game at the Verizon Center.
Today the CityDance DREAM initiative brings the beauty of the arts and the lessons of self-discipline, self-esteem, and community-building to 3rd – 6th graders in ten schools where arts have no other presence. The DREAM program also offers scholarship opportunities for students to continue their dance education at the CityDance Center at Strathmore.
In the kids’ own words…
"DREAM has taught me to try my best and never give up."
- Christian
"It showed me what it takes to achieve my goals."
- Treyniqua
"This is the best day of my life, next to my birthday."
- D'Quinte
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