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Dare to Dream Initiative

Dare to Dream (D2D) is a learning pathway for youth with special healthcare needs and diverse learners in grades eight through high school and those in transition to adulthood programs. The D2D Initiative provides resources and activities to assist youth in leading healthy lives as they move through the transition to adulthood.

Since 2009, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) has provided youth with special needs, disabilities, and diverse learners with a forum on a college campus to address student social and emotional health needs using their individual strengths as a tool for self-empowerment and resiliency. This springtime conference also provides students with an opportunity to recognize that they are not facing their challenges alone as they share this event experience with their peers.

Description

RIDOH, in collaboration with State partners such as the Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS) and the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), leads, sponsors, and facilitates D2D, an initiative that has been in place for more than 10 years. RIDOH leverages the expertise of a national conference presenter to develop and implement a hybrid program delivered throughout the school year, which includes a fall kick-off event, mid-year workshop, and spring on-site conference. More than 600 students, teachers, and support staff from Rhode Island’s middle and high schools statewide are expected to attend the 2024 D2D spring conference.  

Objectives of the D2D Initiative

  • Focus on social and emotional health learning areas that will serve as ongoing foundations of knowledge and skill building;
  • Provide a conference design that includes participatory pre-work to inform event-day programming and tailor activities to individualized abilities; and
  • Engage all of Rhode Island middle and high school students with special needs and diverse learners by providing a rich learning experience both remotely and at an in-person conference.

Who Should Attend the D2D Spring Conference?

  • Youth with special healthcare needs: Youth who have or are at increased risk for chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional health conditions and who require health and related services beyond that which is required by youth generally.
  • Diverse learners: Learners who are racially, ethnically, culturally, economically, and/or linguistically diverse, and/or learners who learn differently from the majority. 

Benefits to Participating

  • Focus on social and emotional learning to build youth resiliency;
  • Push boundaries of expectation, providing participants with concrete tools to nurture their unique strengths;
  • Engage with a nationally recognized motivational speaker;
  • Participate in a continuum of learning opportunities, including pre-work, event-day activities and post event reflection; and
  • Enjoy a fun youth networking opportunity.

How to Attend

RI Middle and high schools teachers/transition coordinators will be outreached by RIDOH designated champion teachers (2) who will help facilitate registration and provide additional information on programing requirements.