OUR WORK
DREAMERS & BELIEVERS
Dreamers & Believers, a mentorship program empowering Chicago youth to become future leaders, launched in 2012 by the Common Ground Foundation (now FREE TO DREAM).
Through a four-year commitment, students receive guidance from dedicated mentors, participate in monthly sessions focused on eight pillars—including leadership, technology, and creative expression—and engage in enriching activities like community service, summer camp, and cultural field trips. By combining mentorship with real-world experiences, the program helps high school students set meaningful goals and prepare for life beyond graduation.
To see our work in action:
ART IN MOTION
Art In Motion is the only tuition free charter school for the arts on Chicago’s South Side. Co-founded by Common & New Life Development, AIM opened in 2019 with 200 students. Today, AIM is serving over 700 students, grades 7 through 12.
FREE TO DREAM™ supports the Creative Arts development of AIM, including art, music, and podcast studios.
AIM is the site for a $45M transformative investment, converting 105,000 sq. ft. into a world-class learning and cultural center for young people and their families, just 8 blocks from where Common grew up.
To see our work in action:
REBIRTH OF SOUND
We are rebuilding a system of accountability that restores human dignity for all those impacted. Our programs work in collaboration with impacted people to help change their trajectories, reframing the narrative around incarceration. Activities include:
Rebirth of Sound
An accredited education initiative inside prisons to provide training in music production to 100 youth and adults
Hope & Redemption Tour
Common performs live and sits down with residents in prisons and juvenile centers, reaching more than 10,000 incarcerated individuals.
To see our work in action:
DREAM SUMMITS
The DREAM SUMMIT, a signature campaign activation brings youth together for hands-on workshops, creative exhibits, and mentorship opportunities to both articulate their dreams and plan their journeys.
We create a transformative space where participants are inspired to dream boldly and begin turning their aspirations into action. Through mentorship, peer collaboration, and interactive sessions, youth explore creativity, innovation, and critical life skills while developing concrete plans to address challenges such as entrepreneurship, wellness, and social impact. The Summit also fosters a supportive community, connecting young people with mentors and peers to nurture their ideas and empower meaningful change.
To see our work in action:
