STEAM & Dream expands STEM access for youth in grades 2–12 across Chicago and beyond through hands-on learning, culturally affirming experiences, and near-peer mentorship that turns curiosity into possibility.
Our Why
Every young person deserves the chance to explore, discover, and thrive in STEM, no matter their ZIP code. Yet across Chicago and beyond, access to high-quality, hands-on STEM experiences is uneven, and many students in historically underserved communities are still missing opportunities to see themselves in STEM and build the skills to pursue it.
STEAM & Dream was founded in to change that. We bring culturally affirming, hands-on STEM experiences directly to schools and community spaces, connecting K–12 students with college mentors who inspire curiosity, build confidence, and help them imagine what's possible.
Our Growth
Since our founding in Fall 2024, we've partnered with more than 20 schools and youth-serving organizations across Chicago and beyond, providing over 1,000 youth with hands-on, culturally affirming STEM learning experiences. Along the way, we've employed more than 50 college students as STEM Learning Leads, empowering the next generation of STEM professionals to mentor, inspire, and shape the futures of younger students.
