The WNBA Atlanta Dream announced today the launch of its Dream Cares platform, which is committed to creating programs that improve the quality of life for all people with a special emphasis on programs that inspire youth and families and promote health, wellness and education. The Dream will usher in the new platform by participating in several projects throughout the metro Atlanta area during the holiday season as part of the Dream Season of Giving initiative.
"As an organization, we are committed to building a positive legacy in our community," said Dream President and General Manager Angela Taylor. "So it is with great pride that we launch our 'Dream Cares' platform in conjunction with the Dream Season of Giving initiative, one of our many social responsibility initiatives that include Inspiring Women and Dream Fit.
"While we endeavor to do so on a regular basis, there is no better time to make an impact than during the holiday season. During our 45 Days of Giving, we will partner with various local organizations to help make sure that members of the Atlanta community are able to enjoy a remarkable holiday season with their friends and family as part of our Dream Cares efforts and outreach."
The Season of Giving began with the Dream's company-wide project on Friday, Nov. 14, when the Dream partnered with Home Depot to help build the Atlanta Veteran's Farmers Market. Dream staff members helped with various projects at the site of the new working market and organic training farm for participating veterans.
The event at the Farmers Market also tipped off the Dream's 'Pay It Forward Fridays' campaign. On Fridays from Nov. 14-Dec. 19, the Dream conducts random acts of kindness throughout the Atlanta community. Among these will be a partnership with MARTA to pay for the fares of MARTA patrons at random locations throughout the Metro Atlanta area.
Several members of the Dream staff will visit APS schools, speaking about their professions and motivating the students to achieve their goals. The initiative's mission is to rescue, restore and restabilize at-risk and homeless individuals and families so they can thrive and become self-sufficient. The Dream will also participate in the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta Health Jamboree on Dec. 6.
The Dream and Kandi Cares, led by founder Kandi Burruss of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, will partner on a pair of Season of Giving events.
First will be a CHOA Holiday Party on Dec. 18, providing food, presents and cheer for patients and their families at a Children's Healthcare of Atlanta location. The following day, the Dream and Kandi Cares will take part in Blankets of Dreams: Winter Wear Drive presented by RMC Movers. At this event, Dream staffers will provide new gloves, scarves, hats, coats, socks and blankets to Atlanta Day Shelter - a local women and children shelter.
The Dream will partner with Big Brothers/Big Sisters in an Adopt-a-Family campaign, identifying a family that is deserving of assistance, then presenting the winning family with surprise gifts, including a gift card provided by Kroger.
The Dream will also support its troops overseas by preparing and sending holiday care packages to members of the military as part of the Dream Hoops for Troops initiative.
Additionally, on Dec. 19 the Dream will be donating a Christmas tree and serving dinner to 50 seniors at Atlanta Napfe Elderly Towers in Northwest Atlanta.
