​

              The DreamQuest program provides funding for children to participate in extracurricular activities like sports, expressive arts, and childhood enrichment programs such as scouts.

       We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to explore their passions, develop new skills, and grow through enriching experiences.

      Funded by community outreach and corporate sponsorship, we’re dedicated to ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of a child’s potential. Together, we can create opportunities for a brighter future.

 

                          -Proposal for Dream Quest Program-

 

                                              -Executive Summary-

​

                The Dream Quest program empowers at-risk and disadvantaged children by providing them with access to extracurricular activities such as sports, expressive arts, and enrichment programs like scouts.

         These activities are vital for developing confidence, social skills, and positive self-esteem, helping children explore their talents in a safe, supportive environment.

     The program is funded through community outreach and corporate sponsorship, ensuring that financial limitations do not stand in the way of a child’s potential.

 

                                                 -Needs Assessment-

​

          In Delaware, a significant percentage of children face financial barriers that limit their participation in extracurricular activities, which are essential for healthy development.

          Approximately 20% of children under age six in Delaware live in poverty, and nearly half of all children face one or more risk factors, such as low-income households or single-parent families.

      These risk factors are linked to gaps in school readiness, social skills, and future educational outcomes, which disproportionately affect disadvantaged children(Biden School) (RAND Analysis).

​

           Further, Action for Delaware's Children has highlighted the need for additional funding to support after-school and summer programs for low-income children.

      Despite the proven positive impacts of extracurricular activities on academic achievement and social development, funding for "outside school time" programs in Delaware has been historically underfunded, with millions in cuts to these essential programs over the past decade (delawarepublic).

​

       Without intervention, children in low-income communities are more likely to miss out on opportunities to develop key life skills through participation in sports, arts, and structured activities.

        The Dream Quest program addresses this gap by providing no-cost access to extracurricular activities, giving children from disadvantaged backgrounds a chance to thrive and succeed.

 

                                            -Program Objectives-

​

1. Provide Access to Enrichment Programs: Ensure that at-risk and disadvantaged children can participate in extracurricular activities without financial barriers.

2. Foster Positive Development: Promote confidence, social skills, and personal growth by engaging children in structured activities such as sports, arts, and scouting.

3. Engage the Community: Build partnerships with local businesses and community members to secure sponsorships and volunteer support.

 

                                             -Program Structure-

​

1. Funding and Support:

• The program will be funded through corporate sponsorship and community outreach, allowing for no-cost participation by eligible children.

• Sponsors will be recognized for their contributions, strengthening ties between businesses and the community.

2. Activity Offerings:

• Children will have access to a variety of activities, including:

  • Sports: Team and individual sports for physical development and teamwork.

  • Expressive Arts: Painting, theater, dance, music, and other creative outlets to foster self-expression and creativity.

  • Enrichment Programs: Activities like scouts to teach leadership, responsibility, and life skills.

3. Eligibility:

• Children must meet criteria based on family income and be identified as at-risk or disadvantaged by school counselors or community leaders.

 

                                             -Outcomes and Impact-

​

The Dream Quest program will:

• Increase participation in extracurricular activities among at-risk youth.

• Improve self-esteem, confidence, and social skills through structured engagement.

• Strengthen community ties through corporate sponsorship and volunteer involvement.

• Promote long-term positive outcomes by supporting children’s physical, social, and emotional development.

 

                                         -Budget and Funding Model-

​

Funding will be secured through:

1. Corporate Sponsorship: Local businesses will be invited to sponsor activities, equipment, and scholarships, with opportunities for branding and community recognition.

2. Community Outreach: Fundraising events, donations, and volunteer efforts will help sustain the program and expand participation.

 

                                                -Measuring Success-

​

Success will be evaluated by:

• The number of children enrolled and actively participating in activities.

• Feedback from children, parents, and educators on the program’s impact on personal growth.

• The volume of sponsorship and community engagement, measured by donations and volunteer participation.

                                                    

                                                    -Conclusion-

The Dream Quest program provides at-risk and disadvantaged children with the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities that foster confidence, skill-building, and personal growth. By removing financial barriers and engaging the community, Dream Quest aims to create a brighter future for Delaware’s children.

​

​