7 Groups Helping People Around the Country Dream Big

There’s nothing wrong with being a self-starter, but sometimes people with ambition and minimal resources need a helping hand in order to get moving in the right direction. Take a look at seven groups and organizations that are helping people achieve their goals.

1. DO SOMETHING

Described as a “global movement for good,” Do Something focuses on task-based campaigns with a specific goal in mind. Recent efforts included cleaning up nearly four million discarded cigarette butts, celebrating birthdays for the homeless, and even helping to convince Apple to offer more diverse emojis.

2. THE DREAM

Funded in part by Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, The Dream helps immigrants without access to state tuition or federal aid attend college. Since The Dream started three years ago, more than 1700 students have enrolled in universities as a direct result of their efforts.

3. WISH OF A LIFETIME

Founder Jeremy Bloom was inspired to start WOAL when he was visiting Japan as a professional skier and noticed how well the culture took care of their older population. His Colorado-based nonprofit helps seniors realize their third-act goals that may otherwise be out of reach due to logistics or financial issues. Some want to travel to see family; others want to explore hobbies.

4. WOMEN WHO CODE

This member-based resource provides educational opportunities for women looking to get into the programming industry, a field traditionally dominated by men. The group also awards annual scholarships and operates a job board to help pair coders with careers.

5. PRISON FELLOWSHIP

Former prisoners often reenter the free world without any firm footing when it comes to financial assistance or job search help. Prison Fellowship lends a hand, partnering with local churches and other organizations to connect with ex-inmates and assist in their re-entry into society. Volunteers also educate prisoners inside the system on what to expect upon release.

6. HIGH FIVES FOUNDATION

For mountain sport athletes who suffer life-altering injury, the High Fives Foundation provides financial assistance and recovery aids to get them back on the path to fulfilling lives. Co-founder Roy Tuscany was inspired to start the group after suffering fractured vertebrae during skiing that led to a diagnosis of paralysis. Tuscany recovered thanks to social support and now looks to lend a hand to athletes in similar circumstances.

7. YOUTHBUILD

This nonprofit teaches construction skills to low-income students so they can assist in building homes, community centers, and schools. While sharpening skills, they’re also eligible to work toward school diplomas and lay the foundation for future career paths.