Charlotte, NC, August 27, 2025
News Summary
The Dream Team at UNC Charlotte is set to continue granting unforgettable sports-related dreams to children with disabilities. Since its inception, the organization has made significant strides in providing life-enhancing experiences. Each year, a selected ‘dream kid’ enjoys a weekend full of tailored activities. The Dream Team, primarily made up of college students, will host a 5K race to fundraise for their next dream child, aiming to create meaningful memories for families facing health challenges.
Charlotte, NC – The Dream Team at UNC Charlotte is set to continue its mission of granting unforgettable sports-related dreams to children with disabilities in 2025. Since its inception in 2023, the organization has made significant strides in providing life-enhancing experiences for children facing serious health challenges.
Each year, the Dream Team selects a “dream kid” to enjoy a weekend filled with activities designed to create special memories. The inaugural “big dream weekend” took place in 2023 when Eric, a young boy with a life-altering disability, experienced the ultimate UNC Charlotte sports weekend. His activities included a luxurious limousine ride, practice with the football team, and participation in a basketball team warm-up, culminating in a memorable dining experience.
In 2024, the Dream Team granted another child’s wish, this time for Janelle, who dreamt of becoming a cheerleader. Janelle’s weekend included a stay at Great Wolf Lodge, a visit to Topgolf, cheer practice, learning cheers and the fight song, and performing courtside at a basketball game alongside the Dream Team Captain, Grace Marlowe.
The Dream Team consists of approximately 20 members comprised primarily of college students who actively fundraise to create these dream weekends. Their primary fundraising event for 2025 will be a 5K race scheduled for October 11, 2025, at Gaston Christian High School. This event is anticipated to attract considerable participation and raise essential funds to support the program.
In addition to the 5K, the Dream Team plans to engage the community through various fundraising initiatives, including tabling events and partnerships with local restaurants for fundraising nights. They are also set to collaborate with Charlotte’s Club Hockey team for a special “Dream On 3” night, during which the latest dream child will perform the ceremonial puck drop.
This year, the Dream Team is focusing on raising funds for a new dream girl whose mother has recently paused her cancer treatments to maximize their time together. The team emphasizes that their events aim to create meaningful memories and connections not just for the dream kids, but also for their families.
Members Allie Grice and Grace Marlowe, both fourth-year students and Co-Captains of the Dream Team, have expressed how impactful their interactions with the children are, highlighting the energy and joy demonstrated by kids like Janelle. The organization aims to foster a sense of community and support among college students and the families of the dream kids, facilitating relationships that are built on shared experiences and hope.
Since its establishment two years ago, the Dream Team has experienced significant growth, continually enhancing its impact as it strives to fulfill dreams and enrich the lives of children who deserve joy and memorable experiences.
FAQ
What is the Dream Team at UNC Charlotte?
The Dream Team is a collegiate organization formed to grant sports-related dreams to children with disabilities and illnesses. They create special weekends for selected dream kids, filled with fun and memorable activities.
How does the Dream Team fundraise for their events?
The Dream Team raises funds through various events, including a 5K race, tabling events, collaboration with local restaurants, and special nights with sports teams.
When is the next big fundraising event?
The next major fundraising event for the Dream Team is a 5K race scheduled for October 11, 2025.
How does the Dream Team choose its ‘dream kids’?
Each year, the Dream Team selects a child as their ‘dream kid’ based on submissions, aiming to create a personalized and impactful weekend experience for them.
Overview of the Dream Team Activities
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Big Dream Weekend | Special weekend filled with tailored activities for the selected dream kid. |
| 5K Fundraiser | The main fundraising event scheduled for October 11, 2025. |
| Tabling Events | Community engagement events aimed at raising awareness and funds. |
| Partnerships with Local Restaurants | Fundraising nights where a portion of sales supports the Dream Team. |
| Collaboration with Sports Teams | Events that feature the dream kids at sports games and activities. |
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Additional Resources
- Niner Times: All About Memory Making
- Lansing State Journal: Greater Lansing High School Baseball
- Sports Illustrated: Mark Williams Dream Target
- Charlotte Observer: High School Sports
- BBC News: Article Overview
- Wikipedia: Children with Disabilities
- Google Search: Dream Team UNC Charlotte
- Google Scholar: Sports for Children with Disabilities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports
- Google News: Dream Team UNC
Author: HERE Charlotte
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