The Dreamstarter program was launched in 2015 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Billy Mills’ historic Olympic victory. Dreamstarter is designed to give back to Indian Country by investing in perhaps the most valuable resource in America — our Native youth. Since 2015, ten Native youth (along with the local nonprofit of their choice) have been selected each year to receive funding for and mentorship in implementing projects of meaningful change, inspired by their dreams, in their communities.

From pre-dental school workshops and local powwows to an immersive Indigenous language camp or a Native owned coffee roastery, there is community action for every Dream — and a Dream in every Native youth!