May 21, 2009 - Each year, the statistics surrounding America’s at-risk youth are grim; and each year the US Dream Academy does its part to counter those statistics.  Founded in 1997 by Pastor Wintley Phipps, the US Dream Academy serves the children of incarcerated parents by providing mentorship, academic help, after-school programs, and more, for elementary aged students.

It also rewards those in the community who are making a difference.

At last evening’s gala at Washington’s Ritz Carlton hotel actress, and DC native, Taraji P. Henson received the President’s Award, while Academy Award Winning actor, Louis Gossett, Jr. received the honor of the Legacy Award.

Salt Lake City’s Keith Poelman received the Mentor of the Year Award for his service to a three-year old student named Aldo.

Susan L. Taylor, editor emeritus of Essence Magazine (and founder of National Cares Mentoring Program), and the evening’s key note speaker, made a compelling appeal to the audience to step up and lead the charge to support America’s children.

“Wintley, you should not have to ask for a dime", said Taylor. 

Also admonishing the audience that it only takes a little bit to make a difference, she referenced the African proverb,” When spider webs unite they can tie up a lion.”  

[Photo top left to bottom right:  Pastor Wintley Phipps, with Chis Tucker and Cynee Simpson, and US Dream Academy students; BeBe Winans performs, US Dream Academy art; Phipps with Susan L. Taylor.] Photos/CD Brown.

Unite we must to save our children. In a world where past administrations have cut funding for school programs (all the while proclaiming - “No child left behind”) we must certainly thank organizations like the US Dream Academy for stepping up and making a difference.

Another African proverb states: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”    If the US Dream Academy, and its supporters have their way, then the dreams of its students look quite beautiful, indeed.

The evening was hosted, once again, by actor Chris Tucker and News Channel 8’s anchor, Cynne’ Simpson.  Musical performances were provided by Grammy-winning artist, BeBe Winans, Kelly Clinger, and Wintley Phipps.

To support the Academy, and learn about the areas it serves, visit www.usdreamacademy.org.