On September 11th, the DREAM Program marked an important milestone in its history with a day of service and celebration at Camp DREAM in Fletcher, Vermont. Joined by members of the Vermont Land Trust (VLT), DREAM volunteers, local organizations, mentors, and staff came together for a day of reflection and community action, honoring the legacy of those lost on 9/11 through acts of service. The event culminated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for DREAM’s newly acquired “Island of DREAMs,” an achievement made possible by the support of the VLT and the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board who will continue to partner with DREAM as stewards of the conserved land.
The service day, part of the annual AmeriCorps remembrance efforts, saw volunteers dedicating their time to projects that will enhance the experience for DREAM campers for years to come. From trail clearing to campsite maintenance, their work exemplified the spirit of community and service that lies at the heart of the DREAM Program.
Following a productive morning, the group gathered for the highlight of the day: the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Island of DREAMs. DREAM Empowerment Director, Mike Foote, addressed the crowd, sharing how the acquisition of the one-acre island on Metcalf Pond was a vision that became reality thanks to a strong community and Vermont Land Trust’s support. “The historical community that has made this possible, the fact that we can be standing on a new DREAM island after running CAMP programming for about 20 years and having an incredible network of incredible kids, alumni, staff, donors, and partners. This isn’t something that was just built in a vacuum, it is built on years and years of hard work that we really appreciate.”
The island, formerly known as Rich Island, was purchased and conserved earlier this year through funding from the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board. When posed with the opportunity to help support DREAM with getting the new property, they and Vermont Land Trust immediately “dove right in” meeting DREAM step by step and showcasing how much they believe in the work DREAM does. The acquisition expands the outdoor adventures at Camp DREAM, which has been serving Vermont’s youth for over 20 years. The island will offer campers new opportunities, including canoeing expeditions, ecological education programs, and small-group primitive camping—all at no cost to ensure accessibility for youth from underserved communities. Through helping DREAMers fall in love with the outdoors and understand its value, it is hoped that they will be inspired to grow into being environmental activists and stewards as a result of happy memories with friends exploring and enjoying nature.
The island itself is a natural gem, boasting wetlands, forested areas, and a vibrant ecosystem that supports wildlife, including loons and bald eagles. By preserving this land, the Vermont Land Trust ensures that it remains undeveloped, offering a pristine environment for campers to explore and learn about Vermont’s unique ecosystems.
The name “Island of DREAMs” was submitted by Kaitlyn Root, a longtime DREAM mentor and former co-chair of the mentoring program at Winchester Place. Her choice reflects the heart of the DREAM Program, reminding everyone that it is a place where young people are supported in dreaming big. It also serves as a tribute to Mike Foote’s own dream of adding this island to Camp DREAM, a vision brought to life through the partnership with the Vermont Land Trust.
VLT Project Director, Bob Heiser, shared his excitement about the project: “There is something undeniably exciting about an island that makes kids' faces light up, so I am so excited you can offer that to countless kids moving forward, and we were able to make this happen.”
As DREAM wraps up its summer programming and looks forward to the upcoming Village and Guided Mentoring sessions, Island of DREAMs stands as a testament to the power of partnership and shared vision. On this 9/11 Service Day, the DREAM community didn’t just honor the past—they built a future where Vermont’s youth can continue to dream, explore, and thrive in the outdoors.
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