Our History

Our National Roots

The “I Have A Dream” Foundation was founded in New York City in 1981 by philanthropist Eugene M. Lang. After speaking to a class of sixth graders at P.S. 121 in East Harlem, his former elementary school. He promised to provide financial support for a college education to every student who finished high school. Lang kept his promise and then some, adding year-round academic and social support for Dreamers and their families. Six years later, nearly 90% of his Dreamers graduated from high school, more than three times the expected average graduation rate of students from the neighborhood.

Since then, over 200 “I Have A Dream” programs have operated in 28 states, Washington, D.C., and New Zealand, together serving 18,000 Dreamers. “I Have A Dream” has also freely shared its model with others: individuals, corporations, church and community groups, and government agencies to generate other educational support programs that help many more children who lack a clear pathway to college.

“I Have A Dream” Foundation In New Jersey

IHDFNJ was founded in 2006 by brothers Jerome and Bernard Robinson and their friend Samuel Schwartz when they sponsored a group of kindergartners from the Burnett Street School and a group of first graders from the Warren Street School, both in Newark, NJ.  Our original Newark Dreamers are now in college or employed.

In November 2024, IHDFNJ launched its newest class of Dreamers, The Galaxy Class, with the goal of sponsoring 70 Dreamers at Thirteenth Avenue Elementary School in Newark, New Jersey. Under the leadership of Principal Thalia Brownridge-Smith, IHDFNJ has proudly partnered with Thirteenth Avenue Elementary School for more than seven years, working alongside school leadership, teachers, staff, scholars, and families to support student success. Through after school and summer programming, the Galaxy Class Dreamers receive comprehensive support that includes academic enrichment, social and emotional learning, mentoring, college and career exploration, and STEAM-focused programming.

Beyond serving its Dreamer cohort, IHDFNJ is committed to supporting the broader school community by working closely with the Thirteenth Avenue team to advance school-wide initiatives, reinforce academic benchmarks, and create opportunities that enhance student achievement and engagement. Through programming during the school day, after school, on weekends, and throughout the summer, IHDFNJ builds lasting relationships with scholars and families while helping to create a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where all students can thrive. This partnership reflects IHDFNJ's ongoing commitment to preparing Dreamers for success in high school, college, careers, and life.