Our Blog

Sara Maslar-Donar

SaraMDSara joined the Board of Directors in fall of 2016 and has since fallen in love with the Day Dreams Foundation (what’s not to love?!) Originally from the suburbs of Chicago, Sara came down to Columbia in 2011 to attend Mizzou and pursue her dream of becoming a famous television reporter. After graduating college in 2015, she began working as a reporter at ABC 17 News and has loved every minute of it. She’s still working on the “famous” part (look out, Savannah Guthrie!) Through her job, Sara realized the important, unique role the Day Dreams Foundation plays in the community and how beneficial it can be to help those families that truly need it. She’s currently a member of the Marketing Committee and putting her addiction to social media to good use. When she’s not posting on our Facebook page, she’s either reading a good murder mystery novel or drinking a good craft beer with friends.

Taira Meadowcroft

TairaTaira was born in Maryland and moved to Columbia to attend graduate school for Library Science. She didn’t go very far after graduating and is currently a medical librarian at the University of Missouri. When she isn’t working,  Taira reads a lot (but in reality, checks out way too many books from the library that go unread because there are so many good books out there) watches period dramas, and is an advisor with Alpha Gamma Delta at Truman State University.  In Fall 2016, she decided to join the Day Dreams Foundation because the mission resonated with her. As a kid, extracurriculars gave her the opportunity to grow and explore what she was interested in. She never excelled at sports, but she does what she can to make sure the children of Columbia have the opportunities they deserve.

Theresa Nguyen

IMG_6344Theresa was born and raised in DeKalb, Illinois, and moved to Columbia in 2013. She graduated from Mizzou with a journalism degree and now works full time at the St. Thomas More Newman Center on campus as the Communications Coordinator. When she was younger, it was her dream to become the first woman president! (She now has other, less stressful dreams.) Theresa was involved in band, soccer, and badminton for many years. She joined the board in 2017 to help Columbia kiddos experience the joy she found in so many extracurriculars. And she’s even more excited to be the cool aunt to her first nephew, born March 2018, and teach him how to be a major geek like she is!

 

Joe Bradley, Day Dreams Foundation Founder

JoeBWhen he’s not working in the Day Dreams office on Mondays, Joe works as the Coordinator of Strategic Communications at Fr. Tolton Catholic High School in Columbia, where he also coaches the boys and girls golf teams. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, he received his Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Missouri in 2011 and his Masters in Public Affairs with an emphasis in Nonprofit Management from Mizzou in 2018. He has previously worked at Big Brothers Big Sisters, the St. Thomas More Newman Center, and the Rebecca Gordon Group. Joe remains an active volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Special Olympics. He and his wife Ellen enjoy attending concerts, Mizzou games, and laughing at their cat, Minion.

Josh Giliberto

Josh

Josh Giliberto is one of our Board of Directors. He currently serves on the Fundraising Committee and works on planning our main events like our annual a Night Under the Stars Gala and Trivia Night. He hails originally from Cicero, Illinois and moved to Columbia to study education at Columbia College. He is currently a math teacher at Father Tolton High School and their assistant soccer coach. While he didn’t think he would be teaching math (he has an English degree), he is thankful for the opportunity to live out his childhood dream of teaching the youth of america.

2018 Service Learning Team

Marketing Team:

 

Brian2.0Brian Baker

Hello my name is Brian Baker and I am from Columbia, Missouri.  I am currently a freshman at the University of Missouri studying Business with an emphasis in Accounting.  Here at Mizzou I am a member of the Cornell Leadership Program through the Trulaske College of Business. I am also an active member of Beta Theta Pi and play on the Mizzou Club Tennis team. I chose to serve at Day Dreams Foundation because I have seen a real need in the Columbia Public School district and beyond for a program like this that provides funds for students’ extracurriculars.  I hope to aid in the success of this organization in any way possible because I believe in its mission.

 

 

 

AmitAmit Bhagat

My name is Amit Bhagat and I am a junior studying Business at the University of Missouri. I am emphasizing in Management and will be assisting with marketing accepts at Day Dreams this semester. I’m looking forward to working towards starting my career in the business world and I am thrilled to be doing my service learning project with Day Dreams Foundations because I believe they are supporting a great cause.

 

 

 

 

Fundraising Team:

 

Emilie2.0Emilie Ascencio

My name is Emilie Ascencio and I’m currently a junior International Business student with both an emphasis in Spanish and Finance. I’ve loved my past 3 years here at Mizzou and spend a lot of my time participating in organizations around campus like Mizzou Alternative Breaks or hanging out with my brothers in our honors fraternity, Phi Sigma Pi. I decided to volunteer at Day Dreams because I know how much I benefited from extracurriculars as a kid, and I want every child to have that same opportunity.

 

 

 

 

 

Nathan

Nathan Sims

My name is Nathan Sims. I am from Centralia, Missouri. I am currently a freshman at the University of Missouri studying accounting. After college, I plan to open my own accounting practice in Missouri. In my free time, I love to go mountain biking at Rock Bridge state park or backpacking with friends. I chose to do my service project at Day Dreams Foundation because I loved getting to participate in sports from elementary school all through high school and feel that every child should get that opportunity.

 

 

 

JustinJustin Davenport

My name is Justin Davenport, and I am from O’Fallon, Missouri.  I am a sophomore at the University of Missouri, and am majoring in Accounting.  I play Ultimate Frisbee recreationally in my spare time, and enjoy playing any kinds of games with my friends.  I chose to do my service learning at the Day Dreams Foundation because I believe that all people should have an opportunity to try out new sports and games, even if they don’t necessarily have a lot of money.  Sports were a huge part of my life growing up, and I don’t want anyone to be denied the opportunity for that also, so I want to raise money for as money people as possible with the help of this organization.

 

 

 

KristenKristen Ross

Hello, my name is Kristen Ross and I am from the small town of Grant City, Missouri. I am currently a freshman at the University of Missouri studying business with an emphasis in marketing. I love being involved on campus especially within the College of Business, and I love exploring the city of Columbia whenever I can. I decided to volunteer with the Day Dreams Foundation because I gained a lot of meaningful experiences from participating in different types of extracurricular activities growing up and I want to help offer that same opportunity to other kids.

 

 

 

NicolasNicolas Cirese

Hello, my name is Nicolas Cirese but I usually go by Nic. I am from Kansas City, Missouri and I am a junior at the University of Missouri studying business finance with an interest in real estate. I am also a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and the Phi Alpha Delta pre-law fraternity. I plan to be a real estate attorney, investor and a financial advisor. I chose to do my service learning with Day Dreams Foundation because I know how important extra curricular activities were for me growing up and I wanted to be able to help other kids be able to participate in extra curricular activities. I think it promotes a healthy lifestyle and I hope I’m able to spread the word about Day Dreams Foundation.

 

 

 

TyreeTyree Davis

My name is Tyree Davis and I am a junior at the University of Missouri studying Business (Finance). I am on the executive board of the National Association of Black Accountants and I am also a Vasey Scholar. I have aspirations of becoming a financial advisor or dwelling into investment real estate. I chose to do my service with the Day Dreams Foundation because I want kids to be active and get involved into different activities.

 


 

 

 

 

An Unexpected CoMoGives Gift

As I sit here typing this note in the Day Dreams Foundation office, listening to Christmas music and preparing for the holidays, I find myself more inspired than ever. The giving spirit is truly alive and well in our community and in our country.

Since founding the Day Dreams Foundation back in September 2014, I have had many people ask me what the key was to launching a new organization. I have always emphasized the importance of friends and family, because in the early months and years, they are going to be your main supporters – both emotionally and financially. Our first board was made up of six of my best friends who had a passion for kids. Our first donors were all individuals we knew personally.

However, in order for an organization our size to grow, we were always going to have to expand outside of our inner circles. But that’s what has given me so much inspiration today. Each time we receive a donation to our CoMoGives campaign, I receive an email notification. Each time it’s like receiving a Christmas present. I get excited when I see the little icon pop up alerting me to a new email in my Day Dreams account and can’t wait to unwrap it. Like in years past, there are many gifts from friends and family, both mine and of our board members. These will always be special, in the way that only gifts from your close friends and family who know you best can be. Knowing that your friends and family have your back is always a tremendous motivator. But sometimes it’s the gifts that you didn’t expect to receive that can really blow you away.

On Saturday as I was taking a break from decorating the house with my wife, I looked at my phone — my Christmas spirit ticked up a notch as I saw a CoMoGives donation notification. I immediately recognized the name of the donor who made a generous $100 gift, but I was a bit confused. The named matched that of a high school classmate that I had not spoken to in 10 years. Even in high school, we never hung out outside of school. I quickly looked him up on Facebook to see if the donor’s current state of residence matched his current residence — it did. I can’t adequately describe how moved I was in that moment. A person I had not spoken to in 10 years, that lived in a state that the Day Dreams Foundation does not serve, made a $100 investment in a Columbia, Missouri child.

The donation reminded me of the beginnings of the Day Dreams Foundation back in the summer of 2014 when I launched a GoFundMe page to cover my Little Brother’s football registration fee. Within 24 hours of posting the link, six donors came forward to help us reach our goal. Once again, it was several friends and family members. But there was also a donation of someone I met while working at the student newspaper in college that I had not spoken to in years. It was that generosity from not only close friends, but even casual acquaintances that convinced me there would be enough support to launch the Day Dreams Foundation.

There are many other stories of donors this month that have inspired me as well. One of our board member’s sisters who recently graduated from college and convinced several of her friends to donate $10 each. Another board member offered to run a full marathon if we reached our goal. Former co-workers have continued to overwhelm me with their support.

As of writing, we have received 54 donations totaling $1,925 to our CoMoGives campaign. That puts us on track to reach our $3,500 goal from 100 donors. We are also close to already topping last year’s total of 57 donors and $2,050. But we need your help. We are quickly running out of close family and friends we can ask to donate. We need this campaign to spread outside of our circles. Even if you are not able to donate yourself, please consider sharing the link with your friends and family.

If you would like to donate, or share the link, visit: https://comogives.com/product/day-dreams-foundation-2/

Thank you for all of your support thus far! We are excited to help even more kids in 2018 participate pursue their extracurricular dreams!

Merry Christmas!

Sincerely,

Joe Bradley, Founder and President
Day Dreams Foundation

2017 Service Learning Team

Marketing:

 

senior pictureMy name is Alexandra O’Haro but I go by Rose. I am from Columbia, Missouri and I am a sophomore at the University of Missouri studying Business (Marketing) with a minor in Textile and Apparel Management. I am also in Phi Mu sorority and I hold the position of Favors Assistant. I hope to work in high end design as my career either on the design or business side. I chose to do my service learning with Day Dreams Foundation because I love kids and I love how Day Dreams Foundation encourages (and provides scholarships for) kids to participate in activities that could potentially be life changing!

 

 

 

 

FullSizeRender (3)My name is Hannah Schuchts. I am from Tallahassee, Florida and I am a Junior at the University of Missouri. I am majoring in Business with an emphasis in Marketing. I am also a member of the Women’s Basketball team here at the University. I plan to work in the marketing industry and learn more about sales and advertising in addition. I chose to do my service learning project with Day Dreams Foundation because I loved the cause and wanted to be able to help raise awareness for such a great organization in our community.

 

 

 

Fundraising

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.39.00 PMHello, my name is Natalie Dickerson I am from Poplar Bluff, Missouri. I am currently a sophomore at the University of Missouri and a member of the sorority Sigma Sigma Sigma. I am a business major with an emphasis in marketing. My dream job someday would to be to own my own boutique, I would love a job where I can get to know people and talk to to new people every day. I am excited to be doing my service learning at the Day Dreams Foundation because I think the scholarships they offer give the children great opportunities, and allow them to pursue activities they are passionate about. I think the little things in life make big impacts and I believe the things Day Dreams Foundation are doing in these children’s life are going to leave lasting impressions.

 

 

 

 

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.41.09 PMMy name is Abigail Stewart. I am currently a Junior at the University of Missouri pursuing a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing and a minor in Entrepreneurship. I am am originally from Denver, Colorado, but chose to come to Mizzou to get out of my comfort zone and expand my horizon. I decided to do my service learning project with Day Dreams Foundation because I have always loved kids and wanted to help impact the community in a positive way.

 

 

 

 

 

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.42.28 PMMy name is Dillon Heeb and I am from St. Louis, Missouri. I am a junior at the University of Missouri studying Business Marketing. I plan to work in the sports marketing industry hopefully with a professional sports team. I chose to do my service learning with Day Dreams Foundation because I believe that every kid, no matter what, should have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities that can allow them to develop as individuals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.43.47 PMMy name is David Goddard and I’m a junior at Mizzou. I’m from Bowling Green Missouri. I previously attended McHenty County College to play baseball before attending Mizzou. I am currently on the bass fishing team here at Mizzou and I am majoring in finance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.44.59 PMMy name is Richard Downs but I go by Tanner. I am from Kansas City and am currently a senior studying finance at the University of Missouri. After school, I want to get into corporate finance on the west coast. I chose to do my service project at Day Dreams Foundation because I loved participating in sports when I was a kid, and wanted to help other children do something I enjoyed so much.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.50.41 PMHi my name is Kelsey Fagin. I am from Fenton, Missouri right outside of St. Louis. I’m a sophomore at the University of Missouri studying Business with an emphasis in marketing. I chose to do my service with Day Dreams Foundation because I love working with kids and I believe being active and involved in something outside of the classroom is something all children should have the opportunity to do so.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.52.06 PMMy name is Kaley Lammert and I am an Administrative Assistant at the Day Dreams Foundation this semester. I am from Lake St. Louis, MO and I am a junior Business Management student at Mizzou. In my free time, I love to spend time with my family and friends, go hiking, and try new restaurants. I chose to work with the Day Dreams foundation because I love the work that they do. I believe that every child deserves the chance to pursue the things that interest them without having to worry about finances. Providing that opportunity makes a huge impact in the life of a child.

 

 

 

 

Screen Shot 2017-10-30 at 1.46.31 PMMy name is Jack Wooldridge and I’m a senior currently completing my major in Business Management with my capstone in entrepreneurship. I grew up in Naperville Illinois, a suburb of Chicago and have two siblings, including a twin. In my free time I enjoy going out with friends, playing rec sports, and spending time outdoors either hiking or running. When I’m not in class or doing school work I spend my time bartending over at Harpo’s Bar and Grill. I chose to volunteer over at Day Dreams Foundation because I love kids and I feel that no child should ever be denied the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities while growing up. Sports were a huge part of my life growing up and it puts a smile on my face to see others experience the same enjoyment that I had.

 

Day Dreams Foundation: More Than Scholarships

Columbia Business Times Nonprofit Spotlight

By Nina Hebrank 

July 26, 2017

Most of us remember what is was like to play soccer after school with friends or be a part of a team or club after school — it’s routine for some kids, something that comes without a second thought. But often we don’t realize how important extracurricular activities can be for our youth. After-school programs can be a vital help for students on the way to becoming well-rounded adults.

Not everyone can afford the cost of a soccer uniform or activity fees. That’s what the Day Dreams Foundation focuses on — eliminating the financial barriers for students to participate in extracurricular activities. Since its founding in 2014, Day Dreams has helped nearly 150 kids participate in extracurricular activities, providing over $27,830 in activity fees, $3,184 in equipment costs, and $1,500 in college scholarships.

Kids 18 and under who are Columbia or Boone County residents and receive a free or reduced lunch are eligible for these scholarships. Day Dreams Foundation has also extended eligibility to students who are homeschooled if they fit the financial income requirements.

“I think it’s so important for kids growing up to have additional people in their life trying to put them on the right track,” founder and president Joe Bradley says. “Oftentimes, that person is a coach or an instructor in those extracurriculars.”

Continue Reading…

Matthew Jr. (MJ)

The Day Dreams Foundation is proud to introduce our newest Day Dreams Kid. MJ received a scholarship to play football this fall and he can’t wait to learn how to be a running back. MJ and his teammates are learning the fundamentals and the rules of the game.  While he is playing football now, that doesn’t mean that’s the only sport he plays. He is an avid basketball player, and wants to be a professional basketball player when he grows up. Always good to keep your options open. 🙂 When he isn’t playing sports, he focuses on math because that’s his favorite subject in school. It was great getting to know MJ and his father, Matthew Sr. They are a wonderful father team, and we can see why MJ said his role model is his dad. We are happy to have you both in the Day Dreams Family. Good Luck with Football!

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