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In 2024, DREAM! launched our Youth Empowerment Board (YEB), bringing together peer mediators from the High School of Contemporary Arts and youth artists from our DREAM! Studio program. This remarkable group of young leaders spent the summer laying the groundwork by developing systems and a mission statement. Beyond shaping the YEB’s identity, these youth leaders received hands-on coaching to lead workshops, facilitate trainings, and create safe, inclusive learning environments. This initiative reflects DREAM!’s commitment to empowering youth to become architects of change in their schools and communities.

DREAM!'s Youth Empowerment Board

Elianna Rincon (she/her) - 12th Grade - Monsignor High School. Planning to study Biochemistry and Microbiology in college.
Emanuel Lassala (he/him) - 12th Grade - Bronx Lab High School. Planning to study Psychology in college.
Jaelin Gadsden (she/her) - 12th Grade - High School for Contemporary Arts. Planning to enroll in the Military and study to be a case worker.
Jaelin Gadsden (she/her) - 12th Grade - High School for Contemporary Arts. Planning to enroll in the Military and study to be a case worker.
Jean Carlos Grullon (he/him) - 12th Grade - High School for Contemporary Arts. Planning to study Illustration and Visual Art in college.
Yanneirilys Duran (she/her) - Alumn - High School of Contemporary Arts. Planning to study Animal Care and Management in college.
Ana Elivo (she/her) - 12th Grade - High School of Contemporary Arts. Planning to study Social Work and Acting in college.
Pedro Montero (he/him) - Pipeline for Peace: Peace Educator - 1 year at DREAM! Previous DREAM! student.

Youth Empowerment Board Projects

Lyn’s Day Block Party

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This summer, DREAM!’s Youth Empowerment Board hosted a block party honoring Lyn Pyle, the beloved co-founder of DREAM! who passed away in October 2023. Held for the Gates Place community in the Bronx, the celebration also marked DREAM!’s 10th anniversary. It was a joyous occasion, welcoming over 100 neighbors, families, and even local news outlets. The event revived the magic of community connection that Lyn’s legacy inspires. The overwhelming enthusiasm from attendees has inspired DREAM! to make this an annual tradition.

DREAM! Roots and Bonds Exhibition

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Youth Empowerment Board Photos from the Roots and Bonds Exhibition

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Roots and Bonds Exhibition

Youth Empowerment Board Original Song “All my life” Behind the Scenes

Annual Clothing Drive

Recognizing the challenges that many families face during the winter holiday season, DREAM!’s Youth Empowerment Board (YEB) organized an Annual Clothing Drive to support the Mosholu Parkway community. YEB members collected, sorted, and distributed over 100 articles of clothing, reaching many individuals in need. The drive was also an opportunity for YEB members to raise awareness about DREAM!’s resources on peaceful conflict resolution. The gratitude from local residents deeply inspired our young leaders to continue finding ways to give back and brainstorm future civic engagement projects.

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