About
Our health, our future, our commitment focus on all aspects of Milwaukee’s wellness community. DreamUpMKE is woven into the fabric of the inner city through people and neighborhoods that are determined to not just survive but dream past all expectations or negative statistical predictions.
DreamUpMKE continues to seek out answers to our community’s devastating issues while applying evidence-based programming, field studies, practical common sense, and helping hands to reinvest hope in children and families.
There is no one answer for our neighborhood's disparities but if communities can see their dreams, it can provide hope for a better day and a better future from one generation to the next.
We believe all people can embrace who they are,
define their future, and change the world.
Our Mission
Our mission is to address social and economic disparities within Milwaukee and surrounding areas to support the reduction of stress and violence within the community.
Our Vision
To help make our city inclusive for all people by providing education, job opportunities, and mental health resources.
Our Team
The DreamUpMKE team are advocates that live and are invested in the Milwaukee community, many with educational degrees related to their expertise in education, human service, as well as different areas of mental health.
Darlene Hatchett, Founder
"We must leave a place better than we found it."
Darlene has several years of experience in the human services field including child development, mental health, and nearly 20 years as a sergeant with the Department of Corrections in Wisconsin. She has achieved a bachelor’s degree in Management of Criminal Justice and a dual degree in Business Management and Communication. She also received a Master’s degree in Human Services and Clinical Counseling, all of which have only compounded her experience.
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Darlene created DreamUpMKE due to her own loss of her 17-year-old son to gun violence in Milwaukee, WI. It was her determination to not only survive past this tragedy but to support other families through their own adversities. The idea of giving families hope through education and employment allows our community to grow.
Darlene is currently the administrator at Bryant's Child Development and Stepping Milestones Academy, a childcare center that works closely with parents within the community of the inner city.
