Dream Catchers

Dream Catchers Youth Empowerment DeProgram is a structured, values-based intervention that deprograms limiting beliefs and equips youth ages 12–24 with the critical thinking skills, personalized Life Plans, and financial literacy tools necessary to break cycles of poverty, increase academic engagement, and develop into purpose-driven, self-sufficient young adults.

We host weekly structured sessions designed to eliminate destructive thought patterns and replace them with critical thinking and active listening skills.

What We Do

Dream Catchers participants who complete a minimum of 8 consecutive weekly sessions are expected to demonstrate measurable improvement in critical thinking skills and a reduction in destructive thought patterns, as documented through facilitator assessments and guardian-reported behavioral evaluations conducted at 30, 60, and 90-day intervals. This directly addresses the root cognitive barriers contributing to youth disconnection, poor academic engagement, and vulnerability to negative influences identified in San Bernardino County's youth development data. Guardian surveys will measure reported changes in attitude, behavior, and critical thinking at the same intervals. Results will be recorded in our CRM system, reviewed quarterly by program leadership, and used to adjust session content and delivery to ensure continuous improvement and measurable progress toward cognitive de-programming goals.

Dream Catchers participants are expected to demonstrate consistent application of foundational characteristics, including gratitude, time management, and selfless service, measured through facilitator observations and guardian surveys. Each participant is required to complete a minimum of 8 hours of community service per month, with documented service logs serving as verifiable evidence of internalized values and active community investment. This structured service requirement directly counters the cycle of disconnection among High Desert youth by replacing idle, unsupervised time with purposeful contribution. Transforming latchkey youth into recognized community ambassadors and servant leaders.

Each participant's Life Plan development will be tracked through our Learning Management System (LMS), documenting completion milestones from initial goal identification through final plan submission. Program coordinators will conduct monthly one-on-one check-ins to assess progress, identify barriers, and provide targeted support. Completion rates will be compiled quarterly and reported.

Why We Do It

Dream Catchers participants are expected to complete a fully developed, individualized Life Plan. Each Life Plan will include documented personal goals, identified strengths, and concrete action steps. This outcome directly combats the absence of structured future-orientation identified as a primary driver of the county's 16% youth disconnection rate, giving participants a tangible roadmap toward academic and economic self-sufficiency.