History

Dream Builders 4 Equity was co-founded in 2016 by Neal Richardson and Michael Woods, who shared a vision of empowering young people that society had too often written off. Their work caught the attention of Washington University, earning them the 2017 WashU SEI competition award and the foundation to build something lasting.

The idea was personal. Co-founder Michael Woods (now a four-time author, college graduate, and successful entrepreneur) was once an alternative school student himself. He knew firsthand what it felt like to be overlooked and expected to fail. He and Neal set out to make sure the next generation wouldn't face that alone.

DB4E began working directly with youth from alternative schools and launched a pilot program with five students from Beaumont CTE. Those five — once overlooked by the world around them — became published authors and completed a full home renovation, sold to a first-time homeowner. Four earned degrees from Ranken Technical College with Presidential Honors, and one completed barber school before going on to complete Ranken's HVAC program. All are now working in their fields.

Since then, DB4E has continued to grow. In 2022, the program expanded to serve youth year-round, offering monthly family lunches and free individual and group therapy for both current students and alumni. By 2023, a formal mentorship program was established to pair every participant with a dedicated mentor throughout the year.

From five students to a growing community, DB4E has always believed that equitable opportunities are the foundation every young person needs to realize their fullest potential.