Dreambuilders

Program Overview

Dreambuilders invites parents to reach self-sufficiency goals while developing parenting and school engagement skills. We do this through individual coaching, parent classes, and PACT Time.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

This program has been a journey for me. At the beginning of the program, I felt depressed and started to lose focus but with the help of Dawn, I started to understand that I could not give up. We started to brainstorm on alternative things to do. I first wanted to go into the phlebotomy field and was excited to begin my journey. However, I got the door slammed in my face. I was told by PVCC that I could not pursue the class due to my situation as a juvenile.

Despite that I graduated in 1998, the juvenile justice system lost my high school diploma. There is no record of me from 1992-1998. I was sad and depressed because they lost me in the system. I was told I would need to go back to high school or get my GED. Dawn and I continued to brainstorm other options and I continued to get the door slammed in my face. However, I did not give up. We continued to explore and research, and we found the culinary arts program. I applied and got accepted into the program. I was able to recognize my other strengths and was able to take another path where I can utilize my strengths and talents. I have successfully completed the culinary arts course. I have learned that when one door slams in your face, you don't have to give up. I learned that you must keep going and there may be better paths to take. Through this process, I have grown as a person and rediscovered myself.

I also enjoyed PACT Time. My son was excited to come to PACT Time and we learned more about each other. I want to instill the value of education to my kids and just how important an education is for their future. In February, I will be taking an entrepreneurship class. I want to gain as much knowledge so I can start my own business.

I feel that this program has been so helpful. I really loved the women's support group. I can see the progress that has been made and I am ready for the things life has to offer.