Where We Work
"We are tied together in the single garment of destiny, caught in an inescapable network of mutuality. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Realizing the Dream’s work is carried out on a global scale, in communities ranging in size from small towns to sprawling metropolises. Within our framework as a convener, facilitator and enabler, Realizing the Dream identifies and collaborates with stakeholders on unique projects around the world. Examples include a collection of local efforts to alleviate chronic poverty in the United States, a cross-sector partnership in Kenya aimed at fostering nonviolent values among youth, and a collaborative effort in Bosnia Herzegovina that confronts ethnic hatred and segregation.
One of the core principles of Realizing the Dream’s strategic vision is that its programs and initiatives should always be mutually reinforcing. Rather than employing only a single tool, RTD typically utilizes multiple programmatic approaches to create multilayered initiatives that rely on several interlocking parts. You can learn more about the tools we employ by reviewing our programs and initiatives in What We Do.
Based on the complexity of the situation on the ground and the wide array of stakeholders involved in a given project, RTD seeks to leverage its programs in a way that address the unique circumstances of a situation. Realizing the Dream’s domestic and international projects can range from one-time efforts with a specific end goal and closing date, to ongoing campaigns that confront entrenched problems over many years. The projects we are currently developing include:
United States
Poverty in America
Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Poor People’s Campaign," the Poverty in America project is an innovative effort aimed at giving local communities the tools they need to confront poverty, while also highlighting the issue to national leaders and policy-makers. Learn more...
Bosnia Herzegovina
Promoting Reconciliation, Tolerance, Coexistence & Peace
In May 2009, Martin Luther King III accepted an invitation from the U.S. State Department to bring the liberating message of nonviolence to Bosnia Herzegovina. Realizing the Dream will continue this effort through an initiative regarding Bosnia's ethnic hatred and segregation, especially amongst youth, starting in early 2010. Read the report or View the Photos!
India
Confronting Structural Violence & Poverty
In February 2009, Realizing the Dream traveled to India to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Dr. King's pilgrimage there. Having used the trip to ascertain India's most pressing issues and needs, we are currently building a network aimed at implementing an India based project in the near future. View the photos!
Israel & Palestinian Territories
Fostering Peace through Nonviolent Youth Development
In June 2009, Realizing the Dream led eighteen young leaders from around the world to Israel to continue building our effort to foster dialogue, understanding and peace in the Middle East. It was our third engagement in Israel and the West Bank in as many years. Read the report... or View the Photos!
Kenya
Redressing Poverty & Ethnic Conflict through Partnerships
In March 2009, Martin Luther King III and Realizing the Dream led ten young leaders from around the world to Nairobi, Kenya, where we continue to build a long-term project against poverty and hostile conflict. By developing partnerships to confront these ills, we can realize Dr. King’s dream around the world. Read the report... or View the Photos!
South Africa
Championing Youth Development & Poverty Reduction
In late September, Realizing the Dream’s leadership and staff sought to expand one of our core initiatives – the Global Communities Network – by traveling to South Africa for a two-week mission aimed at laying the groundwork for a long-term youth and poverty project. View the photos!
Sri Lanka
Assessing the Potential for Reconciliation and Development
Since late 2009, Realizing the Dream has been exploring opportunities to assist the Sri Lankan people toward peaceful conflict resolution, reconciliation and economic development. Working as a neutral party with both the government and people of Sri Lanka, Realizing the Dream hopes to leverage its programs to build a shared future of nonviolence and equality for all. Read the 2-page report!
