Dreams Foundation announces second round of 2018 grant recipients

As a child, Alexis faced challenges of inequity, poverty and stress. As a teen, she struggled with self-confidence and purpose, but her teachers recognized that with the right support, she had enormous potential to become a young leader. That’s when the Wyman Center, one of this year’s American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation grant recipients, came into her life.

American Family Insurance and its Dreams Foundation continue to have a significant impact in communities across the nation with the latest grant investments to 77 organizations totaling $852,500 (see link to entire list below). In July, 79 organizations were awarded grants totaling $865,000 as part of the first grant cycle.

Dreams Foundation grants have significant impact

The Dreams Foundation focuses its efforts towards those who are under-represented and economically disadvantaged, and in two main areas: Life-long learning, such as early childhood development, educational programming and job training; and basic needs, including food instability, transportation and stable housing.

“We know it’s important to our customers that we invest in our communities and help provide opportunities for all to pursue and achieve their dreams,” said Judd Schemmel, American Family Insurance community investment director. “The organizations receiving grants from the Dreams Foundation are doing amazing work in providing programs and services that enhance quality of life and also offer opportunities for individuals and families to thrive.”

Wyman Center empowers teens to succeed

The Wyman Center in Eureka, Missouri, is one of those non-profit organizations.

The Wyman Center offers programs that empower teens to achieve educational success, build life and leadership skills, and develop the healthy behaviors and relationships they need to succeed, through the right environment and with the help of caring and competent adults.

“Once again the Dreams Foundation has made its mission come alive by investing in the dreams of the young people at Wyman,” said Claire Wyneken, president and CEO. “Wyman teens are growing up with limited resources, but they have no shortage of drive, creativity and talent. Your investment ensures the teens have expert support, vital resources, and a team of skilled, caring adults. Your belief in these remarkable young leaders furthers their ability to achieve academic, leadership and social-emotional outcomes. These teens will now go forward to realize their dreams and go on to lead others. We are immensely grateful for this investment.”

And Alexis? With the support of programs focused on leadership and academic persistence, she was introduced to an environment of other teens who had big dreams, and adults who encouraged her to believe in hers. And although at one time she considered dropping out of high school to help contribute to her family’s income, she was encouraged by her Wyman coach to stay the course.

Alexis not only became the first member of her family to go to college, but will soon earn her degree from Missouri State University.

Dreams Foundation partnering to build strong communities

“The American Family Dreams Foundation is pleased to be a partner to so many organizations helping build healthy and strong individuals, families and communities, said Schemmel. “Their success reaps benefits for all of us.”

Since 2016, the American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation and American Family Insurance have committed $8.9 million through more than 500 grants across our operating territory.

See the complete list of 2018 second cycle grant recipients.

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About American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation
The American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation, Inc. builds on our long-standing commitment and support of our communities. As our mission has evolved from corporate giving to community investing, we’ve turned our focus to creating strong partnerships with nonprofit organizations that have helped us strengthen both families and communities. For more information, see the Making a Difference page of amfam.com or the Community Investment page of the Newsroom.

About American Family Insurance
Madison, Wisconsin-based American Family Insurance group is the nation's 13th-largest property/casualty insurance group and ranks No. 311 on the Fortune 500 list. The company sells American Family-brand products, including auto, homeowners, life, business and farm/ranch insurance, primarily through its exclusive agents in 19 states. American Family affiliates (The General and Homesite) also provide options for consumers who want to manage their insurance matters directly over the internet or by phone. Affiliate Main Street America sells insurance products through independent agents. Web www.amfam.com; Facebook www.facebook.com/amfam; Twitter www.twitter.com/amfam.