In this issue:

• Justice & "Kyndness" on MLK Day
• Impact Updates
• Continued Reflections on 35 Years of IHDF
• Award Nominations
• Events & Opportunities
• Fun Run
• Golf Tournament and Committee
• Web, Media and Marketing Volunteers Needed

Justice and "Kyndness" on MLK Day

“A lot of people don’t believe in me but I know I’m working hard enough to make my dreams come true.”

That sentence was not written by a young Martin Luther King, Jr., though it certainly echoes the spirit of his words. Instead, it was written by a Dreamer Scholar who poured their heart into a note of encouragement for another child they had never met—a young person in the foster care system. In offering hope to someone else, the Dreamer Scholar drew strength from their own experiences, transforming personal challenge into an act of compassion and connection.

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026, Dreamer Scholars from across Boulder County—spanning elementary through high school—came together to learn, reflect, and serve in the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy. Rooted in a shared commitment to justice, compassion, and community, the day came to life through age-appropriate learning experiences and meaningful acts of service.

Elementary students gathered for a read-aloud that introduced them to Dr. King’s life and leadership, listening closely as they learned how his words and actions helped shape a more just world. Middle and high school Dreamer Scholars deepened their understanding by watching videos about the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King’s role within it, followed by thoughtful reflection on why his message continues to matter today. High school students also volunteered their time by supporting activities and spending time mentoring and connecting with younger Dreamer Scholars.

Creativity was woven throughout the day’s activities. Students decorated rocks that will be added to a Peace Garden when the weather improves and personalized their own journals with artwork and reflections. These creative moments offered another meaningful way for students to process ideas of peace, justice, and belonging—bringing Dr. King’s vision to life through action, art, and community connection.

Students carried this awareness into a hands-on service project: personalizing Kynd Kits designed to encourage children within the foster care system. The messages students wrote to other kids their age were heartfelt, honest, and powerful!

More examples include:

“You are important. You are strong. You are beautiful. You are valiente. We love you.”

“Negative emotions destroy peace of mind. Think positive.”

Andrea Nieto, IHDF Community Center Coordinator, who planned and led the Dreamer Scholars sessions, reflected on the impact of the day:

“The IHDF events on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the IHDF Community Center were a powerful reminder of what learning and service can look like when rooted in community. Throughout the day, students of all ages engaged in meaningful activities that brought Dr. King’s legacy to life… Watching students learn, lead, and support one another across age groups, this was not just a way to learn history, but to practice of empathy, leadership, and collective responsibility.”

Andrea’s favorite MLK quote captured the spirit of the day: “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”

On this MLK Day, students didn’t just learn about justice and kindness—they practiced it, together!

Thanks for keep this spirit alive with us by supporting Dreamer Scholars year-round through volunteering, donating, or sharing our work with your networks. Together, we can continue building a community rooted in opportunity, equity, and hope.

When Dreams become Reality:

Celebrating the impact of IHDF in Facts and Photos 

We’re excited to share our 2025 Impact Highlights, showcasing the real-world change your partnership is driving today.

To take a deeper look at the work that laid this foundation, our 2024 Annual Report offers a comprehensive view of impact,  progress and learning.

For 35 years, “I Have A Dream” Foundation of Boulder County (IHDF) has grown through the vision and spirit of people who dreamed of what was possible for youth and families in our community. As we look back on IHDF’s partnerships with students, families, volunteers, donors, and the deep relationships built with schools, businesses, local governments, and fellow nonprofits, we spoke with two former Executive Directors who helped shape that journey.

Brenda Lyle, longtime CEO/Executive Director of The Family Learning Center in Boulder and IHDF’s first Executive Director when the organization launched in 1990, reflected on the early challenges and opportunities.

“Being part of starting IHDF was an incredible opportunity for me,” Brenda shared. “I learned so much from being with ‘I Have A Dream,’ from being with those kids. It was an incredible experience to be part of its creation in Boulder County. I’m still so close to those families and those kids.”

She continued, “I’ve always been about the question of how we come together as a community and create a world in which all children thrive, develop, and have the opportunity to be productive.”

“As great as the need was 35 years ago, the need is even greater now,” Brenda added. “There is still a moral obligation for all of us to come together and create a better world for our children. I wish Perla and the organization absolutely the most success as you move forward.”

Lori Canova and IHDF Alumnus and former Board Member David Meza enjoying coffee at the 2025 Annual Luncheon.

Lori Canova, now Chief Growth and Program Officer of the National "I Have A Dream" Foundation, looked back on the 23 years she served as CEO/Executive Director of IHDF, beginning in 1997. She recalls Boulder growing from a single cohort with a basement office into the largest IHDF affiliate in the nation.

During those years, IHDF expanded into multiple housing sites, built deep partnerships with Boulder Housing Partners and local school districts, launched the Annual Luncheon, and developed program models used across the country.

“What we built is still sustainable—and kids are still being served,” Lori shared. “Seeing the work continue beyond us is the greatest gift.”

Early board leaders and key partners helped create a foundation of stability, belonging, and long-term investment in young people. The Dream-Maker Luncheon—now an annual tradition—began simply as a way to honor the first graduating class. Today, it brings together hundreds of supporters who believe in the power of long-term commitment. As Lori noted, “Boulder’s experience helps new chapters launch across the country,” carrying forward a legacy that began with one cohort and a bold belief in every child’s potential.

Across decades, volunteers, mentors, AmeriCorps members, donors, and partners have shaped a community where students are seen, supported, and celebrated. That collective effort—thousands of hands and hearts—has shown what sustained, relationship-based support can achieve.

Reflecting on her nearly three decades of service, Lori added, “‘I Have a Dream’ is in my blood. I believe deeply in the mission and the impact it has on kids and families.”

As we celebrate 35 years, we honor the people who built this foundation—and the generations of Dreamers who continue to inspire its future.

January is Mentor Appreciation Month

A big shout out to all our Learning Partners, staff and volunteers who play such amazing roles in mentoring youth throughout our programs! You are the best! This is the perfect month to recognize someone who makes those invaluable contributions to students' lives by nominating them for the Lori Canova Leadership & Recognition Award.

EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

Save the Date:

IHDF Annual Golf Tournament 

July 13, 2026 | Lake Valley Golf Club

Registration and details coming soon!

Join the 2026 Golf Tournament Committee

Join community leaders and golfers as we work to support the youth of Boulder County.

The committee assists in promoting the tournament, securing sponsors and foursomes, auction items and prizes. They also help to guide the direction of the tournament and ensure that it is a fun event.

This committee meets virtually once a month. 

To learn more or get involved, please download this information and reach out to Danielle Otsuka at 303-444-3636 ext. 114 or Danielle.Otsuka@ihaveadreamboulder.org. 

Web, Media and Marketing Volunteers Needed!

We’re inviting web designers and developers to support an upcoming website migration project, and we’re also seeking volunteers with skills in marketing, social media, photography, video/video editing, and other communication arts.

If you’re interested in contributing your talents, please contact Scott Moore, Marketing and Communications Manager, at scott.moore@ihaveadreamboulder.org to learn more about opportunities and next steps.

Support our work today

Every day is a great day to support the "I Have A Dream" Foundation of Boulder County! We appreciate your faithful ongoing support and the tremendous impact it is having in the lives of students and families across Boulder and Weld Counties.