Community Partner Receives Recognition from “I HAVE A DREAM”
Aug 28th, 2009
“I HAVE A DREAM” Milwaukee first annual awards ceremony was held on Thursday, August 27th 2009. The keynote speaker was Mayor Tom Barrett at the Gordon Park Pavilion. Many community leaders received recognition for their contribution to this great effort in bringing higher education to Milwaukee students and making college a reality. Safe & Sound Community Partner Talibah Hooper was among them.
Since 1986, the “I HAVE A DREAM” FOUNDATION has been working to ensure that all children have the opportunity to pursue higher education. They sponsor entire grade levels of students in low-income communities and work with them from elementary school all the way through college. Upon graduation, each “Dreamer” is guaranteed tuition assistance for higher education. Currently, more than 4,000 Dreamers are working their way to college following the 11,000 Dreamers who came before them. At many of their sites, Dreamers are graduating from high school and entering college at double the rate of their peers.
It is a great program and opportunity for families in Milwaukee; however the barriers to success can be great. Talibah works closely with the IHAD Milwaukee Director Charles Reese, area residents and IHAD parents to address issues of crime and violence in the surrounding community. Mateen has presented at the IHAD parent meetings on several occasions, offering valuable community resources and knowledge. She also hosted a recent block watch start-up meeting; but getting people involved can be a challenge. Their next step is a conducting a community survey of residents to see what their top concerns are. These efforts and coordinated with Charles and involve parents and youth whenever possible.
Sometimes it is the small steps along the way that change attitudes and build strength in a sometimes slow and arduous process. Keeping the “DREAM” requires the support of many community members and we congratulate Talibah on her efforts and recognition. It is great to be acknowledged for this important work in the community. When the kids cross the stage at graduation it makes it all worthwhile.
