YouTube Link: Season 2, Ep. 3: Project DREAM – Engaging the Community
Good afternoon to our dear readers. Today, we bring to you a special spotlight on ‘Project DREAM‘ – an entity that has been making enormous strides within the cannabis community. If you recall, we’ve previously touched upon their endeavors in one of our earlier YouTube episodes, and we’re thrilled to reconnect with them for a deeper dive into their current initiatives!
Carlo Manabat (Co-Chair of Project DREAM, Product Manager at Bláz) and Peake’s own Executive VP, once again graces our blog, giving insights into their noble work. Alongside him is Peake ReLeaf’s Executive VP and co-founder, Tracey Lancaster Miller, whose commitment to the community is unwavering.
Who & What is Project DREAM?
Firstly, for those unfamiliar, Project DREAM operates as an affinity group within the Maryland Medical Dispensary Association (MDMDA). Their primary mission? Elevating the status of social equity applicants and reaching out to segments of our society, notably the BIPOC, women, LGBTQ communities, and veterans – groups that, unfortunately, have historically been underrepresented. Their aim is to forge a more inclusive space within the cannabis industry.
The Roots of Project DREAM
Next, Carlo’s journey with Project DREAM began with a serendipitous meeting with Tracey. Both, having observed Peake ReLeaf’s dedication towards community representation, saw the potential for something bigger. Their shared vision? A robust framework to uplift communities. The result? A collaboration that has since been reshaping the landscape of the industry.
What Has Project DREAM Achieved Lately?
Furthermore, you might be wondering about Project DREAM’s recent achievements. The list is certainly impressive! One of their notable accomplishments is the expungement clinics. Through these events, Project DREAM has partnered with multiple community stakeholders, making a significant difference in many lives.
Moreover, Tracey highlighted the recent launch of their mentorship program cohort. This program, piloted in June, was designed to empower individuals gearing up to apply for social equity licenses in the cannabis space. Participants underwent extensive classroom sessions, covering everything from zoning regulations to compliance requirements, followed by hands-on training at partner dispensaries.
They also organized educational tours, with recent visits to testing labs like Eastern Analytics and production facilities like SunMed.
What Lies Ahead for Project DREAM?
Subsequently, according to Carlo, Project DREAM has no intention of slowing down. They’re actively planning more networking events and are in the process of announcing another mentorship cohort. Additionally, until the implementation of automatic expungement, they plan to host more expungement events.
Additionally, for those interested in staying updated with their initiatives, be sure to follow their website and social handle – Project DREAM.
Peake Relief & Project DREAM: A Silent Force Driving Monumental Change
Finally, Project DREAM diligently works behind the scenes, and their efforts are nothing short of life-changing for our community. Their endeavors, though often not visible to the naked eye, evoke a profound impact that ripples across our industry. Project DREAM, dear friends, isn’t merely about articulating bold declarations—it’s about breathing life into those missions and making that remarkable difference our community so desperately needs.
Here at Peake ReLeaf, we are more than an advocate for the medicinal cannabis cause—we are deeply passionate about our community and the many lives we touch. We stand with organizations, just like Project DREAM, that seek to leave a lasting imprint on the world of medical cannabis. We wholeheartedly and enthusiastically endorse their mission to uplift underrepresented segments within our industry, dismantle systemic barriers and foster an environment of inclusion and equity.
The Journey Towards Change
We are issuing a heartfelt appeal to our beloved community: Let’s not just stand on the sidelines. Let us all dive in, roll up our sleeves, and participate in this momentous journey towards change. There are countless ways to contribute—whether it’s lending your support to Project DREAM, participating in their invaluable initiatives, or benefitting from the programs they offer.
We believe in the transformative power of collective action, backed by knowledge, empathy, and relentless commitment. Together, we can fortify the fabric of our community and nurture a sustainable future in medical cannabis that works for every single one of us.
Remember, community isn’t just about being a part of something—it’s about making a difference together, leaving no one behind. And with partners like Project DREAM, we are confident that we are moving in the right direction. Until next time, keep an eye out for more such insights from Inside the Industry and never stop dreaming big!
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Interested in learning more? Check out some additional media on IG:
- IG Reel #1 – Carlo discusses how he got involved with DREAM: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cv7f7efNW-V/
- IG Reel #2 – Introduction: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CvXwHkhLVoJ/
