Dare to Dream Children's Foundation

When I was first introduce to Ms.Jan Tennyson it was arranged for me and my wife to help support the Dare To Dream program at a restaurant. My wife(who already known her) couldn't make it that day, So I decided to go after working a 12 hr shift and to my amazement Ms.Tennyson and Dare to Dream organization out did themselves. Their generiosty was unmatched which was evidence by the fact they sparred no expense including hosting an entire restaurant soley for the purpose of hosting young men that was recently release from juvenile. I sat with Ms Tennyson and was at awe with her spirit, personality and heart. As she was sharing the vision of Dare To Dream with me I was seeing it unfold before my eyes as elders were sitted with these young men pouring pearls of wisdom in there that could change the trajectory of their lives. Later on I realized that everyone that helped support Ms Jan did it out of their own initiative. It was a very intentional! I have supported Dare To Dream with my wife every since that day !!!!

I am so grateful to have gotten to know Jan Tennyson, Founder of Dare To Dream, personally. Family members and I have had the privilege of her hospitality in her home in Dallas as she’s encouraged and challenged young family members to stretch and discover talents they didn’t even know they had.

She has always impressed me as a person who LOOKS for opportunities to find creative ways to help kids (especially) dream bigger than they could have ever imagined and trust in a big God who can make even the most impossible dreams come true! Once, when on a vacation in Florida by the ocean, when she saw a cruise ship go by, she envisioned underprivileged kids on that ship having the time of their lives. She approached the captain and, in typical Jan fashion, while on her short trip, she had found kids she didn’t even know before that day and rounded them up. She played her keyboard and told them that Jesus had a great plan for their lives and to Dare to Dream about it.

Jan has written many stories in her book *She Dared To Dream: The Jan Tennyson Story.* I love this lady and appreciate how she has inspired me to dream "exceedingly beyond what I could ask or think” in my own life.

Well, I went to the Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center and I've been going for around 3 years at this point. I even dubbed our group the “Dare to Dream Team.” I am now the co-captain. We get 1 hour twice a month to empower the young people with life lessons. We tell them that God loves them and so do we. We tell them that we are Christians, but we weren't always. The pleasure felt and hope given of revealing what God has delivered us from can be seen in these youngsters' eyes. We offer them the prayer of salvation, and, as a result, many have given their lives to Christ. I tell you, it doesn't get any better. We go to be a blessing and leave more blessed in return. Dare to Dream is still a very active program in many ways, including Zoom in order to combat the pandemic. You need more stars - five doesn't do it justice.

To God be the Glory, Gail L. Miller

I have been blessed to see how Dare to Dream Children's Foundation has made an impact in the lives of hundreds of troubled children! Jesus, working trough these precious people, has made the difference between life and death for many who would have been hopeless otherwise!

Jan's compassion and motivation for young people is evident in all she does. She has served youth who face intense challenges for years and has been a tremendous force for good in our city and around the world.

I decided to donate to Dare to Dream Children's Foundation because of their vision to provide support and encouragement to at-risk youth. Jan and her staff are passionate about helping others and are making a positive impact in the Dallas community.

I was introduced to Jan through a friend over 20 years ago, and I, too, have found her to be the "real deal." I got to know her when I volunteered with her charity for a short time, and my wife and I have contributed regularly ever since. She has a true Christian spirit, and a very contagious, caring attitude. She has helped thousands!

As a computer professional I have volunteered and assisted with computer issue solutions for many years. Dare To Dream Children's Foundation is a very worthy and hard working group of volunteers. Jan works to get the help and counseling needed for kids at risk of failing and helping them learn to be productive persons. They are also taught to dream beyond the limits placed by their environment. Donated funds work hard to achieve these goals. Please consider helping these kids learn to be more and achieve their dreams through good values and personal effort.

This organization is amazing and its legacy speaks volumes. Hundreds of children all over the world have been impacted by Dare to Dream’s plentiful seeds of hope and outreach. It’s no wonder over 35 years later, it’s still thriving and enriching the community with the same love as when it started. I’m blessed that I was led to volunteer here, I couldn’t ask for a more rewarding experience.

I have volunteered with Dare to Dream Children's Foundation for the past eight years. As a child who grew up in the foster care system it feels so great to give back to children in need by working with this organization. When you see the difference that volunteering with this organization makes in the lives of the families that we serve, it is no question as to why most of the volunteers who are involved have been committed to serving Dare to Dream Children's foundation for so many years. I have grown so much and look forward to many years to come and I am very appreciative of all the opportunities to serve that I have been included in as a volunteer.

I have known Jan for almost 4 years now. Meeting her was the most impactful moment in my life since I moved to Dallas 10 years ago. Her passion for people, her ability to connect, and her love for Christ shows in everything she does. She moves with integrity and love. I have seen her help and inspire hundreds of women children and adults in the time that I have known her. She has truly been a blessing to this city for the past 35 years.

I am a 33 plus years volunteer who have served in DTD in various capacities. I am a counselor, motivational speaker and board member. My life has been blessed working along side Jan and other great volunteers serving youth in the juvenile detention centers, boys and girls homes and orphanages in Dallas Texas and around the world. Not only have I been blessed serving the young people but also being a part of DTD has caused my life to be overflowing with joy and gladness. So, if you are looking for supporting youth with their struggles in life  and for your life to be complete by serving this present age and others ages to come, choose DTD. At Dare to Dream Children's  Foundation, children do matter and you matter too! Be blessed!
Bishop J Lee Slater
Volunteer since 1988

This is a fabulous organization that helps so many people. It is a blessing to volunteer with this group!

I fell in love with the Dare to Dream Foundation when I lived in Dallas many years ago. The founder, Jan Tennyson has an amazing testimony of being raised in the foster system and has a beautiful heart to serve children in the same circumstances that she grew up in. Jan's passion for encouraging these kids to dare to dream is contagious. Jan and her team of volunteers (which I once was) actively serve, encourage and minister to youth who have lost hope in the system, in themselves and in others. I was involved with the one-on-one mentoring program which allowed me to develop relationships with the kids and to model what a trustworthy relationship looks like. Dare to Dream Foundation is truly an unwavering light for troubled and neglected youth in the Dallas metroplex.

Jan Tennyson has a heart of compassion and empathy for the hurting, wounded and broken-hearted youth who have lost hope that life will ever improve. She knows how to help them change their perspective over time, and truly dream big dreams.

Jan’s heart for founding Dare to Dream is absolutely inspiring. She has led by example with such grace, resilience, and faithfulness. Her life has been a wonderful example of how we can thrive despite any challenges we face and how we can choose to respond to those challenges with grace instead of bitterness. Most importantly, her story shows us that we can, and should, strive to impact the people around us, especially those who may be facing the same challenges we have overcome. 

I think it’s often easy to forget that we were created with purpose for a purpose but the legacy Jan has created through your life serves as a reminder to live our life from a place of victory and purpose. So thankful for leaders like Jan and organizations like Dare to Dream who make a difference in people’s lives by giving them hope and love.

Wednesday night baptisms have a special place in my heart. Being the pianist on Wednesdays gave me an up close & personal view into the young men lives coming to be baptized. The last house on the block being "Dare to Dream". Dare to Dream (as ordained by
God's providence) had intersected their seemingly hopeless situation and relayed God's lavish love and kind mercies to them. ALL lives matter to Jesus, ALL are worthy of Christ' lavish love & forgiveness.
I remain in awe at Dare to Dream's
commitment to point to Jesus as true
Hope to the needs of the broken.
Broken is a beautiful thing when touched by The Great Hope in Jesus.
Sarella Fleenor

I met Jan Tennyson years ago. As I learned more about her foundation, Dare to Dream Children's Foundation, her commitment and dream has been evident and tireless. Through the years her dream has been realized in the lives of the children and the young women she serves. Her vision to sow hope and life instead of abuse and hopelessness had made the difference in many lives faced with lack and terrible abuse near as Dallas and as far as Rwanda. Additionally, Jan multiplies that dream into the lives of everyone she meets. Her constant message is to allow God to help you define and realize your greatest dreams and desires. In other words with a big God you can dream big dreams regardless of your background. Her foundation is definitely the good soil spoken of in Matthew that can produce 30, 60, and 100 fold. I am honored to sow into this foundation.

Please consider Dare to Dream Children's Foundation if you are looking for a place to invest that can make a difference in the world and multiply hope as well as help in a time of need.

Brenda Sharpless

Dare To Dream Children's Foundation is dedicated to opening the doors to the hearts and minds of children who have lost hope an vision. Jan Tennyson works tirelessly and effectively to give them vision and improve their outlook on the the world around them. An organization that does what it claims and deserves support.

Jan is an amazing woman and her organisation is touching many lives. keep up the great work!

Having known Jan Tennyson for over 15 years, we were quite familiar with her work and her compelling compassion to help the children who can’t help themselves.
Today more than ever we need solid faith based people and organizations that will step up for those in need that can’t yet care for themselves. People and organizations that won’t hesitate to help and speak life into the lives of those who are in need. Dare to Dream Foundation is one of those organizations. Thank you for being there and for being available. We are excited to be a small part of your work.

Dare to Dream is a charity that makes a difference for at risk youth, and can truly make our world a better place. Sharing God's word and life through Christ with music, caring, and heart felt stories in small groups and 1 to 1 can be all some people need to change the direction of their life. I joined Jan as an advisory board member many years ago and have been blessed by a long association.

The Dare to Dream Children's Foundation has impacted the lives of many children in their time of need!

This is a world changing idea that is executed through the love and compassion of its leader. Wonderful people with honest hearts acting out the love of Jesus to men, women, and youth that need it the most. I highly recommend any Dare to Dream to anyone and everyone who has a chance to donate money and time to this established organization.

I just recently met Jan Tennyson founder of Dare to Dream. After reading the story of her Dare to Dream journey that spans nearly 3 decades, I cannot believe what one person sold out to a passion can accomplish!
Changing the destiny of at-risk youth all over the world has been nothing but phenomenal for this firecracker of a lady. Even in her Senior years she continues to champion the cause of these forgotten ones of society.
If you have the opportunity to support this organization, do it! Your reward will be great!

I have volunteered with DTD for over 15 years and have been amazed at the work God has done in the lives of the children. Jan Tennyson faithfulness and commitment to the vision God placed on her heart has changed the lives of so many. It's a great organization to get involved in if you really want to make an impact that really matters and makes a difference.

My note to Dare to Dream Founder-Jan Tennyson:
Words cannot express what it means to me to call you my friend and mentor.
Attending your last volunteer brunch at your home was an eye-opening experience. My heart was touched as I listened to each person tell their story about how they started out as a volunteer and are now passionate about sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Volunteers spoke about how much Dare to Dream has impacted not only the lives of troubled youth but also their own life as well. You Dared them to Dream to step out of their comfort zone and now, many are leading their own ministries.

Your diligent trust in the Lord for all your needs is one of the examples that gave me the courage to step out in faith and start a new Journey at Christ for The Nations as a student studying and being trained to be a missionary in short term missions projects. I value your wisdom, your faithfulness, and your determination. Most of all your transparency when witnessing to others and winning the lost to Jesus Christ is what I aspire to be.
Annette Boardman
Co-founder, I Was Hungry Project Dallas

Dare To Dream shares unconditional love with people to help them learn how to dream again. It's impactful, life-changing and gives hope to others to rise above their circumstances. I am so thankful for the love this organization has shown, even on a very personal level.

It is one thing to dream, but it takes courage, determination, hard work, faith and the willingness to go where many will not go to make a difference in the lives of others. The dare to dream foundation does not only dare you to dream bigger than your wildest imagination, you are given the support, encouragement and guidance that is needed to dream big and achieve it. I have known the director of this foundation for more than a decade and her steadfastness, tenacity and message of hope has not changed. My 10 year daughter released her book this summer and the director took time out of her extremely busy schedule to come and encourage this budding young author to dare to dream. Her presence meant a lot to us and we are thankful for the work the dare to dream foundation is doing. If you want an organization that will maximize your investment, dare to dream is the place to invest.

I was privileged to serve with DARE TO DREAM CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION, as a volunteer, Mentor and Chaplain for approximately 7 years and it was one of the most fulfilling times of my walk with the Lord! DTDCF has been a fruitful ministry for over 22 years, where teenagers whom have been abandoned, abused, neglected, deprived and have gotten into trouble as a result, can find hope, healing and restoration. Many are baptized into Christ and find their way as a result. I am so blessed to have met and have worked under its Director Jan Tennyson. A woman after Gods's own heart when it comes to injured children! She knows their heart, for she herself came out a foster home! God always chooses the right person for the right job! HaleluYah!

The founder of the program is the reason I support this foundation wholeheartedly. I have been present as she has boldly tells her story. Her story has been not only used as a testimony for His Glory but also as the fertile soil for healing of others. She did not wallow in her pain but saw her pain as the avenue to prevent the same kind of pain in others. I am inspired as I see her consistent work for God's Kingdom. Brenda

It is so important to me when the founder of an non-profit can personally relate to those they serve. Jan Tennyson's story is moving and how she turned what she endured into sowing into the lives of children. Yes, I support and believe in this organization "Dare to Dream Children' s Foundation"!

Dare to Dream is an organization that maintains focus on its purpose of helping at risk children and youth and effectively serves them. They forge strong links in the community that enable them to reach the children who need them the most. The organization's leader demonstrates integrity at all times and is passionate about the cause.

Jan Tennyson has a heart for young people especially young teenagers who have been incarcerated or orphaned. Jan works so hard to connect them with our group so that they can hear first hand outstanding testimonies of Christian businessmen who can help show them a way to rise above their circumstances and become productive.

Dare To Dream: This group reaches out to forgotten youth in state institutions. They are changing lives through their ministry of caring and hope!

Dare to Dream is an outstanding organization with a true heart for changing the lives of troubled youth for the better. A cadre of dedicated volunteers under the guidance of founder Jan Tennyson give countless hours each week to bring a positive message of hope for a more productive life to these youth who are caught up in the restorative justice system.

Dare to Dream is a foundation for children that fulfills it's name. For over 20 years I've seen it grow and reach out to young people in need. I've seen compassion, encouragement, love and hope given to the youth of this world regardless of race, creed or color. The founder, Jan Tennyson is so passionate about letting every child know that they are valuable and have worth, to not give up, that they are loved and to never let their dream die. Dare to Dream Children's Foundation touches and change lives through mentoring, teaching, fine arts, prayers and the common thread of all humanity, love.

As the Dallas County Juvenile Dept Volunteer Coordinator from the mid 90's to 2002, I interacted with Dare to Dream constantly. The DTD volunteers are a caring group of individuals who treated the youth in the Juvenile system with respect and concern but with good boundaries. Along with their interest and care of the residents in our institutions, they respected the DCJD staff, rules and guidelines. Dare to Dreams's devotion and consistent faithful work is to be commended and praised.

Dare to Dream Children’s Foundation is 27+ years and still going strong. Volunteers across the land have made this ministry what is today. This awesome ministry has opened the door to many wounded and broken hearts across the world. With that said, many have become productive and amazing citizens across the nation.

I have known Jan Tennyson for over 20 years; and I can say that she started The Dare to Dream Foundation because she has a heart for troubled, neglected and/or abused youth.

I have found Jan to be a kind and sincere woman who has worked tirelessly for others. Dream to Dream Foundation is funded by private donations. Please consider this truly great non-profit organization to be worthy of your donations.

Dare to Dream organization is one that has so much purpose and vision for helping abused and neglected youth who have lost hope in their lives. Jan Tennyson, the founder, is a dear friend of mine and she is the most inspirational woman I know. It is a privilege to learn from her. Her vision is to inspire these youth who have lost hope in themselves to dream big! She treats them like royalty. She really believes that their lives can be changed! And because she truly believes in them her actions back up her faith. It is a joy and an adventure to work with her toward changing the lives of these youth!

My name is Clare, I am from Lusaka, Zambia I have been in American for 4 years now. when I first volunteered at Dare to Dream Children's Foundation I had a great experience, it is a great organization I got to work with the children.

Clare M Hanagala

Dare to Dream is an outstanding ministry that is built on integrity and solid leadership. I have known the founder Jan Tennyson for 20 years. Her heart and calling to reach into the lives of children and help them to see their full potential is amazing. She has touched so many lives by her own story and testimony that they really can dare to dream of a brighter, better and more successful life. Dare to Dream inspires not only the children to achieve more in life, but it also inspires us as volunteers to do so as well. It is truly an honor and privilege to be a part of this amazing ministry.

I have seen first hand the wonderful work that Dare To Dream does for children. Young people need to know that they are loved and are important. Dare To Dream provides mentoring and support for some of our most vulnerable children in a positive and meaningful way.

Dare to Dream is an awesome organization that has, for many years, reached out to not only disadvantaged and disenfranchised children but adults as well. DTD has a long track record of proven success ministering to those cast aside by our society. Jan Tennyson has been a tireless worker for the rehabilitation of children and is a seasoned veteran of working not only with other ministries, but government entities as well, bringing hope and help to many who would otherwise have none.

I have had the opportunity to serve with Jan and her Dare to Dream team of volunteers when they visit the Juvenile Detention Center in Dallas. Jan is committed to making a difference in the lives of youth and she makes sure that her volunteers are as committed. That's leadership by example if I've ever seen it. There is no doubt in my mind that she is changing the lives of children and the adults (volunteers) who serve them.

Our family loves Jan Tennyson and Dare to Dream. Jan has been through so much and understands the kids she ministers to first hand. Dare to Dream is a powerful ministry to our troubled young people today. Jan is making a huge difference, and it's an honor to support Dare to Dream!

Jan has always had a special place in her heart for all six of our kids adopted out of the foster care system. Over the years I have known her she continues to reach out with kind words of encouragement and personal invitations to stop by her office so she can dare our kids to dream. Numerous times my children have sat with her and received life lessons and inspiration to reach for their dreams and goals in life. Even though we have recently moved away she still reaches out via e-mail and facebook. Jan truly cares for youth and tirelessly works for their future and of course for their dreams.

Participating in Dare to Dream Events and volunteering were some if the most meaningful and fulfilling times. I love Jan because she truly has a heart and love for what she does and the children to whom she ministers.

I've worked as a volunteer with Jan, who has such a heart for the children and their lives. She genuinely cares about them reminds them of their individual value and what purposes God has for them. This kind of heart and care is so beautiful and so infectious! I got the privledge to work at Casa Shelter and Marzelle as well as a mission trip to Romania. What an amazing organization! Dare to Dream is special foundation with a great mission to empower our young people!

We have worked with Jan, and the Dare to Dream Group for over 15 years. Dare To Dreams' work is on the cutting edge of change, unmatched in emphasizing God's plan for redeeming the Worlds' children. Their services combine the two best elements for transforming kids' lives, God's Divine Plan and "mentorship" between business executives and disenfranchised youth. Their work with Texas' most difficult offenders is changing communities world wide. I am proud to recommend them to the world.

-Travis Wortham, Jr., Owner, The WORTHAM Group
(Retired-Superintendent, Texas Juvenile Justice Department)

I was a volunteer for Dare to Dream some years ago. I had the opportunity to share my testimony and experiences during several visits to a juvenile prison in Dallas, Texas. It touch my heart to see so many young lives impacted by crime and the lack of positive role models in their lives. The teenagers in this juvenile prison need to hear a message of hope and forgiveness; Dare the Dream served as a venue to help reach out to these kids with love and compassion. It was an honor to work along side with Dare to Dream on this initiative.

My wife, Anita, and I have volunteered with Jan Tennyson and Dare to Dream for years. Most recently, we help with their outreach to youth in detention. Every time we go, we see kids make decisions to follow Jesus. The practical and spiritual emphasis of this organization is truly changing the lives of young people. Being a part of this is one of the most rewarding experiences Anita and I have had. ...Paul and Anita Kerr

I am always amazed by the continuing effect that Dare To Dream foundation has on the lives of young people. Jan Tennyson and her volunteers have given hope to 1,000's of young people in sharing how Jesus has impacted their own lives.

I have known Jan Tennyson, founder of Dare to Dream, for many years. I have experienced the DTD impact as both a volunteer at the office and at their outreaches in various youth detention centers.
When DTD volunteers share their message of hope, encouragement and God's love, it is not only life changing for the youth, it is life changing for all the volunteers who participate! I have witnessed the tears of boys from 16-19 who are so moved just because some people they don't even know have taken time to show they really care about them. Dare to Dream is a wonderful organization that is well run and inspires "at risk" youth to know that they are valuable and can rise above their circumstances to be all that God created them to be. I am proud to be associated with such a great organization. Thank you Jan for Dare to Dream.
Linda D.

Dare to Dream Children's Foundation continues to advance God's kingdom by introducing Jesus Christ to disadvantage youth that are struggling to managing their lives in today's hectic world. By doing so under the direction and leadership of Jan Tennyson, Dare to Dream Children's Foundation is creating tomorrows leaders that will lead their families, communities, businesses, and most important, the Church of Jesus Christ. This organization is one of integrity and purpose, and has been recognized by leaders in the community as a nonprofit that truly impacts our society for the greater good.

I was the very first volunteer for Jan and the Dare to Dream Foundation. As fate would have it, Jan placed an advertisement in a small newspaper. She was looking for a volunteer to help with administrative assignments. To our amazement we lived on the same street. I lived at the beginning of the street and she lived at the end of the street. I know that God was in this relationship right from the beginning.

I admire Jan and love her because of her commitment and unconditional love for the youth. She has really operated this nonprofit charity without much money but that has never stopped her from finding a way to make her dreams and goals to come true. It takes compassion to continually run a nonprofit to support others when the funding is small.

I know that this pioneer has made a difference in the life of many youth and the volunteers who have served her. She has an infectious spirit which no doubt has drawn the help from volunteers, opened doors for her to take youth to places that most of them would only dream of....I suppose that is why God planted the name "Dare to Dream" Childrens Foundation in her heart...because she wanted the people that she served to dare to dream...and experience the impossible that God made possible.

Della Faye

I have had the opportunity to volunteer with Jan and the other Dare to Dream volunteers at the Juvenile Detention Center. I must say that they are a committed and passionate group dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young people.

I have known the founder Jan Tennyson and started volunteering with the Foundation over 20 years ago. During that time she has not once wavered from her dedication and heart for the children she serves. Growing up in a foster care system, she reaches out from a very special place of connection. Dare to Dream Children's Foundation is so worthy of this recognition! If you could speak to some of the children she has helped, they would tell you what a difference it has made in their lives.

Jan and Dare to Dream are one of a kind. I was a former member of the advisory board and have watched the amazing work the foundation has done for several years. This is a charity that truly makes a difference in our comunity and the lives of at risk youth.

Dare to Dream Children's Foundation is an organization that has made a tremendous impact on our youth in Dallas and across the globe. As a volunteer for over eight years at the Casa Shelter in Dallas, Texas I have personally witnessed the impact this organization has on so many children. I have witnessed awards that have been given to Jan Tenneyson that confirmed those in the community have seen for themselves this wonderful impact. I take pride and grateful for the many blessings I've personally received playing a small part of this wonderful organization.

I have volunteered with Dare to Dream at the Henry Wade Justice Center for teenage juveniles. I have been amazed that this age group is so willing to be attentive and hear good news. They are at a point in their lives when they want to change and The Dare To Dream staff, especially Jan Tennyson, its founder, have a special repoire with youth. Volunteers are able to introduce themselves to the youth and lead discussion and prayer with smaller groups at the end of the evening. Others can volunteer to be the main speaker for the evening. The young people are very receptive to people who show that they really care about them. This age group can be saved from a destructive lifestyle by groups like Dare to Dream who show them another path and help them learn how to pursue that path through support of teachers, churches, and new friends once they are released. Dare to Dream reminds the youth that God loves them and has a marvelous plan for their lives. Many of the youth are eager to receive hope and to believe they can "dare to dream."

Children who know the pain of childhood without the security of a loving, intact homelife or foster care have an advocate. The founder of Dare to Dream Foundation carries their banner with faithful conviction that dreams really can come true! She began life herself being thrust into fostercare and knows what a difference one caring person can make. The foundation has many years of proving trained volunteers can help to spark new hope in young lives. Without a vision, people will perish. Dare To Dream brings vision of new ways to live life. I've personally seen the sparkle of new hope in young eyes. There's nothing more inspiring. Dare to Dream is making a difference, one child at a time!

I love this organization. I get to volunteer with them once a quarter but I travel far to go help as I truly believe in their cause. Jan Tennyson, the Founder, is a professional, caring, and organized lady. This shows in the way all her other volunteers operate. This place is worth volunteers and financial help. If you actually go spend time with the youth in the detention centers, it will change the way you see life and it will be a humbling experience.

My Name is Harold Wilson.In january 2009 I retired from the Dallas County Adult Probation Dept. after 27 years of srvice.For 20 of those years I have known and worked and admired Ms.Jan Tennyson.Jan helped me fulfill a dream and a mandate i set for myself as a Probation officer and as a Regional Supervisor which was to find commited community people willing and capable in helping me and my staff make a differance in the lives of individuals under community supervison. In having Jan and Dare To Dream volunteers and staff as both contemporary and friends I have found no shortage, or lack-there-of neither in committment nor willingness to Open Hearts or Hands to those in Need, especially young people.I have been given beyond measure since meeting and knowing Jan and pray that as she moves forward so will her mandate as well as her mission and her ministry.THANKS SO MUCH Jan and Love Always!! Harold.

I met Jan at Hillcrest in the 90's and wanted to volunteer in her organization. She needed office help and at the time, that was all I was able to do after working each day. I know Jan's heart is full of true caring and has shared everything for the cause. Jan is an outstanding mentor and you will not find anyone more devoted to her work. I was truly blessed during my time with her to see the results of her efforts. Dare to Dream has helped so many young people and I have been blessed to be a part of such a great organization.

The harvest is plenty, but the laborers are few. We learn that the hard way in any group, but what makes an organization special is the ability to do the most with the assets we possess. Jan taught me that I have so much more inside to give and helped me to share that with others to see the greatness that dwells within in each and every one of us. Dare to Dream helps to create oxygen when these children's reserves are running on empty. Hope does not disappoint and neither will those that invest their time and resources to help Dare to Dream Children's Foundation - good luck to all the groups and thanks to all the volunteers in the Non Profit world - the capacity to serve is trully limitless. David A.

As I was trying to decide between being a Client Served or a Volunteer I was torn because I have had the awesome opportunity to be on both sides of this organization. When I was younger Dare to Dream offered my bothers and I opportunities that our SE status would normally not have been able to afford us. We received gifts at Christmas as well as served other families throughout the year at various events. Now that I am an Educator and the Youth Director at my church, I am able to volunteer with Dare to Dream and serve kids and families allowing them to experience the same opportunities I have had. This is a wonderful ministry to be a part of and I encourage everyone who can to participate in changing the lives of kids forever!

While living in Dallas I was blessed to be a volunteer at Dare to Dream. Children big and small receive gifts of love and compassion through this wonderful foundation. May God bless those who help and those who serve, and may He expand the territory and boundaries reached by Dare to Dream.

Countless lives have been impacted through Dare to Dream. Hope is reinstated, courage is found,and a positive, fruitful future emerges . Many thanks to Jan and her team, for countless hours of giving unselfishly to these children and teens.

I had the great pleasure and privilege to serve at-risk youth with Dare to Dream in the late 90's. Their mission of reaching out and impacting young people heading in the wrong direction was pursued with great passion. Though many at-risk youth were not interested in the efforts of 'do-gooders' trying to help them, it was wonderful to see some respond to the love and care being shown them and begin to turn their lives around. The camaraderie among the volunteers was amazing.

I had a chance to meet Jan 25 years ago when she initially began Dare to Dream. She is a very caring/giving person with a history that truly hits home with her target audience. I am very grateful that I can contribute financially to help her reach kids and let them know that they can have so much more than what they may see in their lives at the moment - she truly helps them to Dare to Dream!!

Dare to Dream is an organization that I truly believe in. Jan has made it her life's mission to reach out and help these children. I pray that God continues to use Jan and Dare to Dream to do His work.

God is using Dare to Dream for His plan of redemption. Jan Tennyson has a heart and passion for helping children and her autobiography~~She Dares to Dream~~is highly recommended as inspiration to all! May God continue to bless this organization in its 25th year & beyond! Blessings, Barbie

As Director of Nursing at an Adolescent Drug Treatment Residential Program in NY, and a foster child in the Brennen Home with Jan all those years ago, I can attest to the healing power of this story. It is a primer on how to rise above the challenges we face in the classroom of life and this book is written by a master trainer. As we say in the addiction field, your story matters! Nothing in this world happens by mistake and I am proud to have lived a part of this story with Jan. Joan Lohnes,RN,BS,ADS,LMHC.

Dare to Dream is a top rate organization that has born abundant fruit in the lives of not only the multitude of children she and her team have touch and have given much support for them to succeed in life, body, soul, and Spirit. I recommend anything that Jan puts her hands and heart to will be given a hand up, not just a hand out. Testimonies of many children will verify this recommendation. When a child comes from a broken and dysfunctional home they need to know that there is someone who believes in them and their dreams. She and her team will be there when the need and the open door is presented. I have been a long time friend and supporter if this ministry and also been the recipient to help disadvantaged children in my own ministry of Rejoice Africa where I too was given opportunity to help many children and adults have hope and dreams again in their lives. Yes, I highly recommend Dare to Dream to be highly honored for all the years they have worked tirelessly to equip many to see their dreams come true.

Dare to Dream is a wonderful organization. I am glad to have donated to the organization to help children dare to dream.

I met Jan while attending Hillcrest Church in the 90's. She is an amazing, godly woman who is so committed to her relationship with the Lord and to her ministry, Dare to Dream. Jan is very diligent and persevering and as a result the children she touches in her ministry are experiencing the love of God, and for many, for the first time in their life. She is a wonderful role model in many ways. Many blessings and prosperity on Dare to Dream so Jan can continue to bring joy and hope into the lives of so many kids who feel they've been left behind. Live on Dare to Dream!

My wife and I met Jan Tennyson in Hillcrest Church in the late 1980s. I was an Elder & Secretary of this Non-Denominational Evangelical Christian Church which Jan attended. We became her friends and observed her raise up the Dare To Dream Ministry & Children's Foundation, over these many years. She is a hard worker, in earnest and effective in helping needy children. I am a retired CPA and the Executive Director of Anchor Line Ministries, Inc. which helps needy Ministries & others solve their problems. I endorse Ms. Tennyson's Ministry & Foundation, Mr. Barry L. Burton, O.P.

Dare to Dream Children's Foundation has been a part of my family for over twenty five years. I came to know the founder (Jan Tennyson) from the YMCA Casa shelter. I was an adolescent counselor working with sexually abused, physically abused and neglected youth ages 6-18 years old who lived with challeging life issues. Jan was one of the many programs that came to provide services that encouraged the children to "Dare to Dream." Through this particular program and more than the others we used, I learned as an adolescent counselor, that Dare to Dream was really encouraging the youth at the YMCA Casa Shelter. Many of the youth inn the shelter would always as; "Where is that lady who plays the key board with the dream music!" I later joined the program to help hurting children not hurt! As I learned more about Dare to Dream Children's Foundation, I got more involved and begain to be a substaining contributor to finacially support the program by deducting each pay period a percentage. The program gives annual or as needed reports on your contributions, which helped me feel good about where the finacial contributions go. (All donations are tax deductable) Dare to Dream have served youth programs all over the world as far as Russia and Romania just to name a few! I love this ministry and its founder who is loving, caring and very supportive to greeds and cultures. I encourage all who look to financially support a childrens program to, choose Dare to Dream Children's Foundation...over 25 years of caring for the needs of challenged youth and famlies. For more information visit Dare to Dream online at www.daretodream-dallas.org

I was lucky enough to meet Jan in 2000. I participated in mentoring of youth at several locations in the DFW area. I was impressed with Jan's heart for children and her compassion when it came to helping them get through their tough times growing up. It was a pleasure being a part of her organization and being able to be a positive influence on the children that we mentored. If you have a heart for seeing the lives of today's youth changed, then DTDCF is one organization that you can support and know that a difference is being made locally and around the world with Jan's help.

I think I first heard of the sound work that Dare to Dream was providing to children in 1995. It has been a pleasure to be of some support to this organization since that time. Jan Tennyson has a true heart for children, especially those that have been separated from their families. As it has been said, "our greatest ministry opportunities come from our greatest hurts': If you read Jan's autobiography, "She Dares to Dream", it's evident that God was planning to use her in this way from an early age. James 1:27 tells us: "True religion is to visit the fatherless and the widows in their trouble . . ." Jan has been demonstrating true religion for many years and its true that actions speak much louder than words.

This woman from the moment I met her was filled with a divine purpose! We were both a bit younger some 20 years ago but Jan's eyes shown with a love and concern for everyone. Especially children! When you read her story, which she has finally and lovingly put in a book....called...She Dares to Dream...you will understand her ambition and drive to find a world of love and peace for all children of God. Her favorite verse is “Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear
nor be dismayed, for the Lord God—my God—will be with you.
He will not leave you or forsake you, until you have finished all
the work for the service of the house of the Lord.”
(1Chronicles 28:20a). Doesn't that describe Jan to you if you know her? And if you don't know her...make it a point to get to know her...you will be blessed!!

No one cares more about kids with disfunctional backgrounds than Jan Tennyson. I found that out when I first volunteered to be a part of the Dare To Dream "Team." Prison Ministry is a strong calling for me. I talk to lots of adult inmates who come from unhealthy environments, many of whom would not have continued on their path of lawless behaviour had someone like Jan come into their lives when they were teenagers.

Jan is unflagging in her determination to continue to make a difference in the lives of young people. It is an honor and a privilege to serve with her in that effort.

Bill Kushnir

I volunteered to be on one of the many teams that Dare to Dream operates in the county of Dallas, Texas. The detention center houses up to 100 children ages from 7 up to 17 awaiting their trials or release dates. You can see the same faces for several month until their cases are determined. I talked privately with them to find out their greatest need, which for many was someone to listen to them and prayed with them. Some accepted Jesus Christ as their savior with tears in their eyes, many needed more time and understanding because the world had roughly treated them robbing many of their innocence. They are all a work in progress because of their environment, but Dare to Dream makes a significant impact while they are incarcerated. The world I live in is very troubled and it's up to me to help change the youth's attitude that each person can Dare to Dream of a better, more loving and caring world tomorrow. I am now a resident Missionary to Haiti.

I have known Jan Tennyson and her work with the children's foundation since 2000. As she and the teams she trains reach out to youth in detention centers, orphanages and the foster care system, I have seen the effect her message of faith, hope and love has brought to hundreds, perhaps thousands. She inspires and builds self esteem in youth who see no hope, have received little love and possess little self esteem. Her teams share from their heart and there is always a positive response by the youth who see someone who genuinely cares about them. This organization has reached out for 20 years to lift up disadvantaged youth. I am proud to be a friend of Jan Tennyson's and to have had the privilege of volunteering in Dare to Dream.

I am recently retired from the Adult Probation Dept.after 27 years on the job.For almost 17 of those 27years I have known Jan Tennyson and the Dare to Dream Foundation.I know what the Foundation has done and means in the lives of young people of Dallas County and what Jan means to the Foundation. I have gone with Jan and sometimes with other volunteers to speak to young people incarcerated in the Detentation Centers throughout the city,and each time,I have gotten back more than I gave.Jan help me understand that my purpose/my ministry was to see that no child would end up in the Adult system. Therefore,for all the speeches I made and parades I marched,I focused on that premise. Jan has been my inspiration and in a way,my rock.Because as I discovered years back,just starting as an Officer,instead of one(1)person trying to make the differance with 100 people on a caseload,I found 100 people to make the differance with the one person,one-at-a-time. THANKS Jan and the whole entire Dare to Dream family.

Dare to Dream has changed lives for decades. The love and concern for children is phenominal! God's love shines through this director and her volunteers. All have stepped out in total faith to ministry to children all over the world who are hurting and need encouragement to feel good about themselves and live productive, fruitful lives. I cannot say enough good about this wonderful foundation.

Growing up in the foster-care system in New York City has caused me to be passionate about children subjected to abuse. I started Dare to Dream Children's Foundation in 1987 and in 2007 earned the Governor's Lonestar Achievement Award. Knowing that there are people in the community who care and will be involved in helping those less fortunate gives them hope for a positive tomorrow. More at www.daretodream-dallas.org