THE POWER OF STORY
Dream Center Peoria is brought to life every time we hear about another person being impacted, another person being saved from homelessness. We want each of our experiences and environments to reflect the heart of something you’ll hear and see frequently around here: Turning Dreams Into Reality.
Within this brand guide, notice how story informs our why and shapes our how. When we are motivated by stories of life change, we’re naturally more excited to stay true to being a place that Gives Dignity, Shows Compassion and Ignites Purpose.
OUR STORY
We are located in the heart of the city in Peoria, Illinois.
We’re also a faith-based not-for-profit organization located in downtown Peoria.
The mission of Dream Center Peoria is to impact individuals and families in poverty, starting with kids and youth.
WE ACCOMPLISH THIS GOAL IN FOUR WAYS:
Originally built in 1953 and used by the YMCA, the building became empty in 2000 with a sale price of $4 million. No one was interested in this eight story building and it sat for over four years.
In early 2004, as Dream Center Peoria was looking for a home to house its operations and ministries, some developments occurred. The building dropped in price to $1.4 million which allowed the building to be purchased.
The day that Dream Center Peoria approached the YMCA about the building, one of the largest hospitals in Peoria also contacted the YMCA on the same day — no one had contacted them in nine months about the property. After some miraculous intervention and meetings with both the YMCA and the hospital, Dream Center Peoria ended up purchasing the eight-story, 140,000 sq. foot building with two gymnasiums, 22 apartments for transitional housing, a homeless shelter for 65 people, countless class rooms, a swimming pool that would be later turned into an auditorium for 400 people and a youth area that would house the youth development program — all for $200,000.
Since then, Dream Center Peoria has become a place where people can find hope and truly see who Jesus Is…
VISION
At Dream Center Peoria, we Impact Families Living in Poverty Starting with Kids and Youth.
STAFF VALUES
IN ORDER TO ACCOMPLISH OUR WHY, IT’S IMPORTANT THAT WE HAVE THE SYSTEMS, STRUCTURES AND STRATEGIES IN PLACE TO SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS. THESE ARE ESSENTIALLY THE HOW OF OUR LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE AND OUTREACH STRATEGIES.
LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE
As a whole, our goal is to reflect Christlike actions in all we do and how we do it. Dream Center Peoria is guided by four primary groups of people: the Executive Team, the Board of Trustees, the Staff.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
The Executive give spiritual oversight for Dream Center Peoria. What does that look like? They evaluate the 3 ministry pillars, review major ministry decisions and ensure Dream Center Peoria remains faithful to the mission we’re called to do.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Board of Trustees are empowered to oversee the day-to-day management of Dream Center Peoria. To sum it up, they use their unique marketplace experience and wisdom to serve here.
STAFF
Our staff head up Dream Center Peoria’s day-to-day ministries. Their main job is to lead and empower volunteers to continue to carry that out.
Outreach Coordinators provide strategy, philosophy and support for our local volunteer teams.
The Creative team exists to curate the culture and brand of Dream Center Peoria by supporting and communicating outreach initiatives and strategies.
HOW DO THESE WORK TOGETHER?
The staff head up the 3 ministry pillars of Dream Center Peoria. The ministries are supported by the policies and budget determined by the Board of Trustees. And, finally, all of the activities of Dream Center Peoria are done under the spiritual supervision of the The Executive team.
