Indianapolis, IN — August 28, 2025— DREAM Alive, Inc. is honored to announce it has been awarded a grant from the Valinhos Foundation, to be distributed over two years, to expand its impact among Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) students in the Haughville community. This funding will allow DREAM Alive to serve 6th- through 12th-grade students at Northwest Middle School (NWMS) and George Washington High School (GWHS). 

In partnership with Elevate Indianapolis, DREAM Alive places mental health and wellness at the heart of its programming. Through daily, on-site mentorship, students build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and strengthen their sense of self-worth. After-school events and immersive career and college exploration trips further provide safe spaces for connection, belonging, and growth. These opportunities are designed to reduce social despair, nurture emotional well-being, and give students hope for their future.

Students who participate in DREAM Alive report a stronger sense of acceptance, improved outlook on life, and greater confidence in their ability to succeed. Beyond emotional health, these supports translate into fewer suspensions and expulsions, higher GPAs and graduation rates, and a lower likelihood of involvement in crime or violence. Since 2005, 100% of DREAM Alive graduates have entered college, the military, or an established career. By prioritizing mental wellness alongside academic and career readiness, DREAM Alive equips students with the relationships, life skills, and confidence they need to thrive in every area of life.

“DREAM Alive believes every student deserves consistent mentorship, meaningful opportunities, and a safe place to grow,” said Eric Müller. “We are sincerely grateful to the Valinhos Foundation, and because of their generous support we can expand these life-changing resources to even more scholars on Indy’s West Side.”

About Valinhos Foundation

The Valinhos Foundation is a private family foundation dedicated to improving the mental health and overall well-being landscape for youth (up to age 24), families, and communities across Indiana. The Valinhos Foundation’s mission is to drive lasting, systemic change in Indiana’s mental health landscape by investing in innovative, data-driven solutions that fill gaps, improve quality, and reimagine how society supports mental health and well-being.