Indianapolis, IN (February 26, 2025) - DREAM Alive, a mentoring organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable youth in Indianapolis, on Wednesday announced a $100,000 matching gift pledged by Jim Irsay and the Indianapolis Colts during the nonprofit’s inaugural "DREAM Makers" Luncheon at Victory Field. The dollar-for-dollar contribution match from Irsay launches a $200,000 fundraising campaign to help DREAM Alive deepen its life changing impact in serving its current scholars, as well as reaching and serving more Indy youth throughout Center Township.
Founded in part by Tarik Glenn, former All-Pro Left Tackle and Ring of Honor recipient for the Colts, DREAM Alive provides mentoring and career development programming for students across 8 Indianapolis Public Schools. Since 2011, DREAM Alive has achieved a 99-percent high school graduation rate among its scholars, significantly surpassing overall graduation rates (72 percent) during that same period.
Glenn’s continued involvement in DREAM Alive as a board member reflects his commitment to giving back to the community that helped shape him.
"When I see our scholars, I see myself—someone with dreams bigger than their circumstances," said Glenn. "Mentorship expanded the path forward for me, and now, through DREAM Alive, we're creating that same opportunity for thousands of kids. This fundraiser isn't just about raising money; it's about inspiring the priceless gift of hope.”
“We're honored to support DREAM Alive and the incredible work they're doing to lift up the youth of Indianapolis," said Jim Irsay, Owner & CEO of the Indianapolis Colts. "Our youth are our future, and every dollar we match invests in their potential. I've seen firsthand how mentorship can change lives, and I'm proud to stand with Tarik and DREAM Alive to help make a difference in our community."
Beyond its academic achievements, DREAM Alive is demonstrating additional positive influence in students’ lives in other ways as well. This past semester, DREAM Alive middle-school scholars experienced 91 percent fewer school suspensions than their peers, helping them form stronger interpersonal relationships with fellow students as they remain in the classroom and continue toward graduation.
Through its unique, personalized approach, DREAM Alive is able to serve its scholars at a cost of just $500 annually (about $10 per week). Funds raised through the nonprofit’s first DREAM Makers Luncheon will continue to support programming throughout Center Township by providing youth with the tools, guidance, and confidence needed to make their dreams a reality.
"Every $500 we raise provides another young person with a mentor who believes in them, along with career exposure and development support for seven years," said Eric Müller, president and CEO of DREAM Alive. "With the Colts' incredibly generous matching gift and the support of our corporate and community partners at the DREAM Makers Luncheon, we are not just dreaming big—we’re turning those big dreams into reality."
Those interested in making a gift to support the DREAM Makers campaign can text “Make Dreams” to 44321. The organization is also always seeking new volunteers, mentors and corporate and community partners as it continues to amplify its efforts and reach. To get involved or learn more about DREAM Alive, visit www.dreamaliveinc.org.
About DREAM Alive
DREAM Alive (DA) is a local nonprofit which helps break the cycle of poverty by mentoring vulnerable youth from 6th grade through 12th grade towards career paths. DA was originally co-founded by retired Indianapolis Colts Left Tackle, Tarik Glenn during his all-pro playing career. Serving Indianapolis Public Schools, DREAM Alive has empowered 99% scholars who complete their 7-year program to graduate high school, with 96% of those scholars planning to enlist in the military, go to college, or enter straight into the workforce upon commencement. To learn more about DREAM Alive, please visit www.dreamaliveinc.org
