Transforming Educational Opportunity
We are bridging the gap to create more pathways that inspire dreams of a THRIVING Memphis
The inequitable distribution of resources, opportunities and outcomes across different demographic groups within the educational system has created disparities in educational attainment and outcomes along all lines of race, income and geography.
One of the primary drivers of educational inequity is poverty.
Children growing up in poverty are more likely to attend underfunded schools, which may lack the resources and facilities needed to fully invest in the children.
These students may also lack access to after-school programs, tutoring or other academic resources that can help support their learning and development.
At the Memphis Dream Center, we are standing in the gap to bring high-quality educational opportunities to the most underserved neighborhoods in our community.
read2lead
The Read2Lead After-School Program serves K-6th grade children attending schools in under-resourced and under-served neighborhoods.
R2L provides high quality academic and enrichment opportunities and family engagement in an out of school time setting.
This program focuses on closing the academic and opportunity gaps for children in a safe, life-giving environment.
- Over 600 children have enrolled in Read2Lead since 2015
- 83.3% of children in our program saw an increase in reading scores and a decrease in school suspensions from 2015-2023
“I like coming to the Dream Center because the teachers are very nice. We do a lot of fun things! Art and gardening enrichment are my favorite!”
Read2Lead Champions
Read2Lead Champions are the ambassadors for improved outcomes among Memphis children. You are invited to join a movement where children are encouraged to dream about a future of unlimited opportunities. When you become a Read2Lead Champion, you provide a year-long scholarship for one child in the Read2Lead program.
Read2Lead mentors
We are always looking for mentors who are passionate about leading children towards bigger and brighter futures. If you are interested in volunteering at the Memphis Dream Center, please fill out this application.
family enrichment center
Located at our Austin Peay location, the Family Enrichment Center provides Adult Education classes through a partnership with HopeWorks.
Course offerings include high school equivalency classes, FastTrack career readiness courses and English as a Second Language + Civics (ESL+), which provides English language learners the opportunity to prepare for citizenship tests. Career coaching is also offered at our Family Enrichment Center.
- Since our launch in 2021, more than 200 adults have graduated and received their high school diplomas through our Family Enrichment Program
Click on the button below to find the most updated information on the HopeWorks website.
