What We Do

Dream BIG is a student-led mentoring program that matches college-aged women with middle school girls to facilitate lasting relationships meant to encourage growth and community. Like the Be. BOLD program, Dream BIG partners with JO Kelly Middle School in Springdale, Arkansas. The program consists of monthly “Brave Girl” sessions that focus on identity development through community support, cultural awareness, and one-of-a-kind programming.

Our History

Dream BIG began as an alternative spring break to the Arkansas Delta in 2010. Our team traveled to KIPP Delta Charter School and found a need for positive role models for the young girls who faced issues of poverty, neglect, abuse, and high drop-out rates.

In 2011, the program partnered with Marvell-Elaine High School for an overnight camp during spring break and then later a camp at Elaine High School over fall and winter breaks. Dream BIG sought to create a “cultural shift” for its girls that would engage and inspire them to succeed and overcome challenges.

Seeing the need within Northwest Arkansas, the program moved to JO Kelly in Springdale in 2015.

Who We Are

        Click here to meet the Dream Big Board!!

Want to get involved?

Students can volunteer as mentors. Through the Dream B.I.G. Board, University of Arkansas students (mentors) are matched with J.O. Kelly Middle School students (mentees). Mentors meet at least once a month for training sessions and Brave Girl sessions.