In collaboration with the Sarasota School of Arts & Sciences, DreamLarge announces the return of DreamLarge Weekends, a program dedicated to empowering the next generation to create innovative solutions to the real challenges Sarasota’s nonprofit community is facing. Presented by Gulf Coast Community Foundation, DreamLarge Weekends will teach students about creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and provide them with a view into the world of philanthropy. Open to all Sarasota and Manatee County students grades 6-9, this free event takes place Thursday, March 14 through Saturday, March 16 at the Sarasota School of Arts & Sciences. Over the course of the weekend, students will have spent time creatively exploring a real-world issue, honed into a single solution, and prototyped their plan to create social impact. At the end of the weekend, students will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges composed of local community leaders, including executives, business professionals, and philanthropic influencers.  “There are over 2,000 nonprofits in Sarasota, many of which are struggling for resources, time, or a fresh set of eyes - that’s where the DreamLarge Weekends come in,” says Julia Groom, Director of DreamLarge. “We’re asking nonprofits to share with us the biggest challenges they’re facing, and we’re connecting them with the imagination and creativity of exceptional local students and their mentor counterparts.” Currently, DreamLarge is seeking mentors and volunteers to help student teams brainstorm and refine their ideas. A mentor can be any professional in their field, from college-level to CEO’s, willing to lend their expertise and guide students toward a problem-solving mindset. Local business leaders, creators, marketers, developers, designers, entrepreneurs, teachers, and everyone in-between are encouraged to take this opportunity to become a catalyst for student innovation. Students and mentors are welcome to sign up for the free event. Space is extremely limited. To learn more, visit DreamLargeWeekends.org or sign up directly at dreamlargeweekends.eventbrite.com Don't miss this opportunity to empower students with critical thinking tools, foster collaboration, and make a lasting positive impact on our local community. 

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