The State of the American Dream

The State of the American Dream

What does the American dream look like today? Can it still be realized?

Keeping the American Dream Alive

Paul Ryan

Even though Paul Ryan has left Washington, D.C., he is still passionate about public policy. From reducing poverty, to being smarter about the use of data in government, to immigration reform, former Speaker of the House Ryan continues to believe that the right policy mix can bring the American dream within everyone’s reach.

Transforming Lives and Creating Opportunity for At-Risk Youth

Chad Houser

Chef Chad Houser came to a sudden realization: Not everyone has equal access to the American dream. He evolved his dream to create Café Momentum, which works to provide opportunity and break cycles of poverty.

Grit and Community are Key to Reaching Full Potential

Dionne Gumbs

The American dream isn’t equally accessible to all. Dionne Gumbs shares her story and how it has inspired her to work to help build meaningful wealth for women and multicultural business owners.

The Evolution of the Idea

J.H. Cullum Clark

The American dream is a widely known concept, but is it still achievable in the 21st century? The once radical idea is ever-changing, but is now rooted more in dignity than in dollars.

A Brief History of the American Dream

Sarah Churchwell

Over time, the phrase “American dream” has come to be associated with upward mobility and enough economic success to lead a comfortable life. Historically, however, the phrase represented the idealism of the great American experiment.

From a Vietnamese Orphanage to a Life of Service in America

For many, the U.S. military can be a gateway to the American dream. For Kimberly Mitchell, her story began when was adopted as a baby in Vietnam by a U.S. Airman, continued to her own military career, and today is centered on ensuring other veterans can live their American dream.

The Values of Hard Work and Servant Leadership

Major General Alfred Flowers, U.S. Air Force (Retired)

USAF Maj. Gen. Alfred Flowers (Ret.) explains how individuals’ fundamental values are key to the American dream.

The American Dream is Also About Generosity and Respect

Joseph Kim

The American dream is centered around the idea that if you work hard, you can “make it” in the United States. But hard work alone isn’t always enough — sometimes you just need the help of kind strangers.

Surviving or Thriving? What It Takes for Immigrants to Succeed

Farhat Popal

The American dream is alive for immigrants, but the obstacles can feel nearly insurmountable — and that burden can be felt for generations.

Building Opportunity for Generations

Andrew Kaufmann

Immigrants come to the United States in search of a better life. They sacrifice the world that they know for a world of unknown challenge, but also opportunity — not just for themselves, but for their children who they want to lead lives with less hardship.

The Resilience of Immigrants is Rebuilding America

Rebecca Shi

Immigrants, both documented and undocumented, contribute to the American way of life. During the COVID-19 pandemic, their contributions have been critical to keeping America moving — and will be critical to helping rebuild.

Unfinished Dreams: A Family's Hardships in America

Julissa Arce

An immigrant’s path toward the American dream often isn’t a neat, tidy, storybook tale. Julissa Arce describes the difficult decisions, sacrifice, and hardships her family has faced along their journey.