DreamCatchers for Kids™

DreamCatchers for Kids™ was founded in 2016 with the singular purpose of enhancing the lives of Mahoning Valley children with life-threatening medical conditions by creating amazing experiences that will bring them joy and hope. #DreamCatchersforKids

Our team works closely with families, doctors, and caregivers to get to know the children and the one special dream that they keep in their hearts. From spending a day at the zoo to meeting their favorite superhero, we use our resources to do what we can to make each dream come true.

The goal is simple – to rejuvenate a child’s spirit by making a good dream a reality.

Do you know a child whose dream you want to help make a reality? Nominate a child for DreamCatchers NOW!

Applications are being accepted year round, unless specifically mentioned on this page. 

The Origin of the DreamCatchers for Kids^TM

According to Ojibwe Nation legend, Asibikaashi (Spider Woman) helped Wanabozhoo bring the sun back to the people after night. Asibikaashi took care of the people, her children, but as the Ojibwe Nation spread out across North America, she had difficulty making the journey to all of the children.

So, mothers, grandmothers, and sisters weaved magical ‘spider webs’ using willow hoops and sinew to hang from a child’s cradleboard. The dream catcher lets the good dreams through filters out all the bad dreams, which are dispelled by the first rays of sunlight.

#DreamCatchersforKids

Who can refer a child? 

Anyone may do so; however, the referring party must have the written permission from the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s).

For a child to be considered for the DreamCatchers for Kids^TM Program, the following criteria must be met:

• Child must between the ages of 3 and 18 at the time of application.
• Child must be diagnosed as chronically or terminally ill by a certified physician.
• Child must be a United States citizen.
• Child must not have had a dream or wish granted previously through DreamCatchers for Kids^TM or any other organization. DreamCatchers for Kids^TM grants only one dream per family.
• Child’s exact dream must be specified.