At this difficult moment for so many of our Scholars and Alumni, we are overjoyed to announce TheDream.US has received an additional generous gift from MacKenzie Scott, continuing her support for our mission and amazing Scholars and Alumni.
As I told the Princeton alumni magazine in an article about her generosity, I was in a musical instrument store upon learning of her earlier support. Perhaps it was the surroundings, but the call sounded, “like a choir of angels” and reflected her clear belief that communities like ours add “to the richness of our country.” Receiving another call this year filled my heart with joy, knowing it would be a beacon of hope for our Scholars and Alumni during this moment of heightened fear and uncertainty.
Not only is this news a testament to Ms. Scott’s generosity and a reminder of all the good a dedicated individual can do in this world, it’s also an incredible indication of trust in our organization, our small but extremely hard working team, our model of success, and – especially – our amazing Scholars and Alumni.
Our 10-year impact report demonstrates that Dreamers excel when provided the opportunity. TheDream.US Scholars graduate at higher rates than most college students and 93% of our Scholars with work permits have full time jobs six months after graduation. These education and career opportunities not only catalyze social mobility and positive outcomes for individual Dreamers and their families, but workplaces and broader communities as well.
Thank you MacKenzie Scott, the Yield Giving team, and our many other supporters dedicated to ensuring more success for Dreamers and recognizing their importance to the “richness of our country.”
See below the email our President and CEO Gaby Pacheco sent to our Scholars and Alumni
Dear Scholar/Alumni,
You have carried dreams that the world told you were impossible. You have faced obstacles no one should ever have to face—because of where you were born or the circumstances of your life. And yet, here you are. You are still fighting. You are still learning. You are still believing in yourself, even when it feels impossible.
Today, I want to share some incredible news: TheDream.US has been chosen to receive a generous gift from businesswoman & philanthropist MacKenzieScott, because she believes in you and in our mission.
I want to be honest. This year, all of us at TheDream.US have felt the anxiety and heartbreak of losing in-state tuition in Texas and Florida. We’ve seen previous donors temporarily step back because of the political climate. We’ve had to scale back some awards. And yet, through it all, we have stayed determined. We have doubled down on one truth: you are worth investing in. Your dreams are worth believing in.
And because of everything you’ve accomplished, people like MacKenzie Scott have noticed—and they are saying, “I believe in you too.” Over the last ten years, your courage, perseverance, and brilliance have shown the world what happens when opportunity meets determination. Over 12,000 Dreamers have received scholarships. More than 4,500 have graduated. And every single one of you continues to inspire all of us.
I know it’s hard right now. I know some days you might ask yourself, “Why am I doing this? What is it all for?” Here’s what I want you to hold onto: the future belongs to those who prepare for it today. You cannot control everything that comes next—but you can control this moment. Right now, you hold a gift from people who love you, who believe in you, and who are cheering for you every step of the way.
You are seen. You are valued. You are capable. And your dreams matter.
With So Much Admiration,