Empowering Community Through Youth Leadership: LCJP Supports I Have a Dream Foundation of Boulder County’s Dreamer Institute

In a collaborative effort between LCJP and the I Have a Dream Foundation of Boulder County, the Dreamer Institute, a transformative program, took place at the Front Range Community College—Boulder County Campus from July 8th to 11th, 2024. This annual initiative aims to empower elementary/middle school-aged students through leadership development, team building, and community engagement.

The Dreamer Institute welcomed around 60 students, with a diverse breakdown across grade levels. The program is designed to provide a series of workshops over four consecutive days in the morning, focusing on themes such as leadership expectations, confidence-building, celebrating differences, and promoting restorative justice practices.

One of the unique aspects of the program was the involvement of high school volunteers who supported the facilitation of workshops and provided mentorship to the younger participants. This benefits the students in the program and offers the high school volunteers an opportunity to earn service hours and contribute to their community.

The overarching goals of the Dreamer Institute are to instill in students the belief that they are all leaders with unique value to offer, to foster a sense of community and support among participants, and to introduce them to restorative justice practices. Through a combination of interactive workshops, engaging activities, and meaningful discussions, the program aims to empower young individuals to become active agents of positive change within their communities.

By focusing on building leadership skills, nurturing confidence, and promoting inclusivity, the Dreamer Institute sets out to create a generation of young changemakers who are equipped to make a difference in their schools, neighborhoods, and beyond. This initiative exemplifies the power of community partnerships in supporting future leaders’ growth and development.

As the Dreamer Institute unfolds over the week, it is expected to inspire and uplift all participants, reinforcing the importance of community, compassion, and collaboration in creating a more equitable and just society. Stay tuned for updates and insights from the Dreamer Institute as we witness the transformative impact of youth leadership and community engagement in action. Let us unite to empower, uplift, and celebrate the potential of our young leaders as they embark on this journey of growth and empowerment.

Join us in supporting the Dreamer Institute as we pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future through the power of community and youth leadership. Together, we can make a difference.