Our History
Since 1991, Columbus County DREAM Center, Inc. has been dedicated to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building thriving communities throughout Columbus County and southeastern North Carolina.
The organization was founded as the Alcohol and Drug Prevention Coalition (ADPC), focusing on substance abuse prevention and education. As community needs evolved, so did the organization’s vision. Leaders recognized that substance abuse was often linked to broader challenges such as poverty, unemployment, educational barriers, limited access to healthcare, and a lack of economic opportunity. To address these root causes, the organization expanded its scope and services.
In 1997, ADPC transitioned into the Columbus County DREAM Center and relocated to its current facility in a historically African American neighborhood in Whiteville. The building was generously donated by a local businesswoman with the vision that it would serve as a place of hope, opportunity, and community transformation for generations to come.
For more than three decades, the DREAM Center has served as a trusted community resource, providing programs and services that promote prevention, wellness, education, and economic mobility. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programming, the organization has addressed critical community needs in the areas of:
Health & Wellness
- Substance use prevention and education
- HIV/AIDS awareness, testing, and linkage to care
- Chronic disease prevention and health education
- Mental health awareness and support
- Nutrition education and food assistance initiatives
Education & Youth Development
- Afterschool and summer enrichment programs
- Academic support and tutoring
- Mentoring and leadership development
- College and career readiness programs
- GED and adult education support
Workforce & Economic Opportunity
- Job readiness and workforce development
- Financial literacy and asset-building programs
- Entrepreneurship and small business support
- Digital literacy and technology training
Community & Family Support
- Family strengthening and parenting programs
- Resource navigation and referrals
- Community engagement initiatives
- Housing and economic stability support
Today, the DREAM Center remains committed to its mission of "Prevention Now, Wellness and Success Forever!" while embracing a broader vision of empowering individuals to achieve thriving communities. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term opportunities, the organization continues to create pathways for success and improve the quality of life for youth, families, and communities across the region.
Our Mission
To empower the Columbus County community toward a healthy and safe environment with the firm belief that the DREAM Center will provide the entire community a hand of hope.
"Prevention Now, Wellness and Success Forever!"
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Your support and contributions will enable us to continue to serve the citizens of Columbus County