[edit] THE DREAM MILE - A Brief History

The Dream Mile foot race, launched by Vibha Atlanta in 1998, has grown over the years and is now the key fundraising vehicle for Vibha across its action centers. In 2007, the Vibha family decided to brand the event and thus was born The Dream Mile. "A few miles for a million dreams" - the Vibha family truly believes in and subscribes to this message. We believe that a small initiative taken by us can go a long way in helping underprivileged children fulfill their dreams.

The Dream Mile started off in Atlanta with a small dream to make a big difference. All the volunteers at the first meeting were apprehensive as it was the first-time we were undertaking an event of this magnitude. However, the team cast its doubts aside and forged ahead. Vibha Atlanta received logistical help from organizers of local Atlanta walks and runs, most notably, the Aga Khan Foundation Walk and the Sickle Cell Foundation Walk. Volunteers from Georgia Tech were extremely enthusiastic and were successful in raising $4000 as initial sponsorship from the University. This was in addition to free access to all University facilities and publicity from its local radio station WREK. Success at the University energized the team to get additional sponsorships from several mainstream companies. The local community leaders and the media also provided enthusiastic support.

On Oct. 10th 1998, a sparkling, sunny day, people from all sections of the community came together in support of Vibha's great cause. Large number of enthusiastic participants turned out for the 5K Walk/Run, seniors' Walk and Kids' Fun walk. Kids under 3 years of age and senior citizens over 70 walked stride-in-stride and made the event memorable. Some proud parents were seen taking part with their 1-2 month infants in strollers. It was encouraging to see the enthusiasm shown by some of the kids, who refused to stop after the 1K walk and went on to complete the 5K Walk.

The Dream Mile has come a long way since its inception. It has grown from being a small event attended primarily by volunteers and friends to a permanent fixture on the calendars of runners in the various cities in America. The walk/run expanded to other centers and has become one of the flagship events for Vibha over the last decade. In 1999, the walk/run was organized in three action centers (Atlanta, Bay Area, and Dallas). In the following year, it was organized in nine action centers.

Every year, starting early summer, action centers across the US plan and host The Dream Mile. Vibha also hosts a pledge drive as part of the event, thus providing those who cannot participate in the race an opportunity to get involved. As an individual you can make a pledge as well as sign up to become a fundraiser for the race. The funds raised through The Dream Mile go towards supporting projects in India and the US. Several action centers identify a local beneficiary at the onset of the race season, thus giving back to the local communities in which they live and operate. We believe that going forward, The Dream Mile will continue to grow and become more recognized in the local communities in which Vibha operates. We hope that you will be part of our efforts in the years to come.