The following story is from the Dream Project’s 2024 Annual Report “Supporter Spotlight” section. This year, we featured Board Chair and Mentor, Tim Lawler. Read Tim’s story below.
“For the past three years I have had the privilege of being a Dream Project mentor – one of the most fulfilling and rewarding volunteer activities I have ever done. When I was in college, I had planned to be a high school teacher and as life often does, it throws you a curve. I never did become a teacher, but volunteering in education-related organizations has scratched that itch for me.
The mentees I have worked with have demonstrated the sheer will, desire, hope and nerve that it takes for an undocumented student to pursue a college education in this country. From September through March, they would show up every Tuesday evening for two hours to learn about options for their college careers, while at the same time putting in the hard work of applying for scholarships and learning how to finance their education.
I have kept in touch with the mentees I have worked with, and I am proud to say they are all doing well. They are excelling in their studies, finding their way in the eventual careers they want to pursue. Just the other day, I received the following text from one of my mentees:
“Hi! I’m really thankful for your help with all of my college applications. I love JMU so much. It’s so nice and fun in here, I really feel like I belong to this school. My dorm is so close to all of my classes what’s really convenient. I joined 3 clubs and [am] planning on rushing for sorority (art one of course). I feel like I couldn’t have done it without you! Thank you again!” — Polina Z., Mentee 2024
As I reflect on the past three years as a mentor, I will hold dear these experiences understanding what it means to each undocumented student to get the kind of help the Dream Project provides. In my new role as Chair of the Dream Project Board, these experiences will help guide me as I work with the board, our donors and most importantly the undocumented community that we serve.”
Tim Lawler joined the Dream Project as a mentor in November 2021. He is a retired professional with over 44 years of experience in information technology and finance. Tim was a senior executive for financial management at the Federal Aviation Administration and provided consulting services as a Managing Director at Grant Thornton for nearly 12 years. Tim served several times as a volunteer instructor with the Presidential Classroom for Young Americans, helping high school seniors learn about their government and how it functions. In addition, Tim was a volunteer at the Washington Home helping residents on the Alzheimer’s ward play games and assisting the staff with caring for residents. Tim enjoys playing tennis, reading and traveling. Tim began his tenure as Chair of the Dream Project Board of Directors on July 1, 2024.