Why Does “I Have a Dream”^® Work?  

According to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in the U.S. Department of Justice*, there are 8 program principles necessary for “effective delinquency prevention.”  They can be summarized by describing what “I Have a Dream”^® does.

• We choose groups of high-risk youth (a group identity with positive peer role models).

• We intervene early (1^st grade and stay with the same child through high school).

• We intervene often (between mentors and staff, 2 or 3 times a week).

• We intervene intensively and follow-up well into the future.

• We intervene in multiple settings (home and school whenever appropriate).

• We never give up on a child.

*“Delinquency Prevention Works: OJJDP Program Summary.” 1995.  Published by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. U.S. Department of Justice.  Washington , D.C.