Together we
can make a difference
beyond our wildest dreams
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Fostering Dreams Together
Who we are
Erica and Tori met in 2000 and have spent many nights dreaming about ways they could, together, make a difference in the world. Finally, in 2016 Tori read an article in People Magazine about a young woman graduating from USC who had been in the foster care system. The article stated that 3% of foster youth graduated college. Upon reading this, Tori called Erica and said “I found our nonprofit, 3% is simply not enough.” And from that moment, Dreams33 was born.
Why 33
At Dreams33 we strive to make the dreams of youth in foster care come true through helping them to further their education. The number 33 is significant as it was Tori’s dad’s lucky number. Without him, Dreams33 would be only a dream in Tori and Erica’s head.
What is Dreams33?
Dreams33 is a private 501(c)3 that grants educational grants to students in college who are either currently or formerly a part of the foster care system. Our goal is to ensure the full funding of each scholar’s college experience, allowing them to focus on learning and growing. Therefore each grant is custom-designed to each student. Once accepted as a Dreams33 scholar, a student is enrolled in our program for the remainder of their educational journey, as long as they are actively enrolled in school and in good standing. We welcome current college students, as well as graduating high school students, to apply at this time.
LOW EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
4% of foster youth hold a college degree by age 26, as compared with 36% of the general population.
Foster Youth
4%General Population
36%Number of Youth in Foster Care
Over 437,000 children and youth are in foster care
437,000+
UNPLANNED PREGNANCY
At age 21, 34% of young women in foster care will be custodial parents are compared to 13% of the general population.
Foster Youth
34%General Population
13%What Dreams33 provides
Dreams33 provides financial assistance for Foster children who are dedicated to their education. Providing resources, tutors, living expenses and other services to these young minds gives at-risk children a path to success.
EDUCATION EXPENSES
LIVING EXPENSES WHILE IN SCHOOL
Meet the Founders
Erica and Tori met in 2000 and have spent many nights dreaming about ways they could, together, make a difference in the world. Finally, in 2016 Tori read an article in People Magazine about a young woman graduating from USC who had been in the foster care system. The article stated that 3% of foster youth graduated college. Upon reading this, Tori called Erica and said “I found our nonprofit, 3% is simply not enough.” And from that moment, Dreams33 was born.
