About Us
History of D.R.E.A.M.S
Donielle and Brian Watkins never imagined starting the D.R.E.A.M.S. Foundation of Acadiana when they were expecting their first child. Pregnancy went smoothly, but when their son Logan was born, they faced unexpected challenges. Logan was diagnosed with Spina Bifida, changing their lives forever.
Determined to give Logan every opportunity, they searched for inclusive activities. They encountered obstacles but persisted, creating opportunities for Logan to participate in Cub Scouts, TOPPS soccer, and challenger baseball. Logan's enthusiasm sparked a vision in Donielle and Brian – they wanted to provide similar opportunities for all children with special needs.
Thus, the D.R.E.A.M.S. Foundation was born in 2007, with a mission to support individuals with special needs and their families. From sports programs, Theater, Art, to job opportunities through D.R.E.A.M.S. Manufacturing Company, the foundation has blossomed into a beacon of inclusivity in the Lafayette community. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of determination, love, and inclusion.
Please feel free to stay a while and check out all the fun things we have to offer! We hope you can join us in our adventure!
Meet the Staff
Donielle Watkins
Founder/Executive Director
Donielle is the Co-Director of the D.R.E.A.M.S. Foundation of Acadiana along with her husband Brian Watkins. Donielle and Brian founded D.R.E.A.M.S. in 2007, because their son and other kids with special needs in the community wanted to participate in activities and sports. They never imagined that it would flourish into the successful foundation it is today. D.R.E.A.M.S. has brought together many families that identify with each other and has changed many lives for the better. “I am blessed that God chose us to lead this organization.” -Donielle
Brian Watkins
Founder/Executive Director
After the birth of their son Logan, who was born with Spina Bifida, Brian and Donielle’s lives were changed forever. They decided to create a nonprofit foundation designed to bring activities and sports programs to the Acadiana area for special needs individuals. After several years of introducing and running various programs, Brian decided to go back to school to become a special education teacher. He has now been teaching since 2010 and is currently teaching at St. Thomas More high school in the Options program. In 2014, he was awarded Teacher of the Year by the Louisiana Governor’s office for special needs. As well as teaching those with special needs in the classroom, he is also involved in the sports and activities throughout the organization! “Each child can learn; we just have to figure out how they learn.” -Brian
Sponsors
Thank you to all of our sponsors! You are what D.R.E.A.M.S are made of!
Looking to become a sponsor? Fill out our form here.
Click on the sponsor photo to visit their website.
