How to Share the American Dream: A Step-by-Step Guide to Strengthening Your Community
Introduction
In 1931, as the Great Depression gripped America, historian James Truslow Adams described the American Dream as “a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement.” He emphasized it wasn’t about material possessions, but a social order where everyone can reach their fullest potential, regardless of birth. Yet today, many feel that dream is slipping away. In a recent speech at Cooper Union, I joined Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman to discuss this crisis. Through a personal journey involving a high school play adaptation of The Outsiders and a survey of Americans, I realized the Dream is incomplete unless we share it. This guide will show you how to take concrete steps—inspired by that pledge—to share the American Dream with your community, starting today.
What You Need
- Time for Reflection: At least 30 minutes to consider what the American Dream means to you.
- Writing Tools: A notebook or digital document to record your thoughts.
- Access to Resources: The ability to donate money or volunteer time. No amount is too small.
- List of Effective Organizations: Start with groups like Team Rubicon, Children’s Hunger Fund, PEN America, The Trevor Project, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, First Generation Investors, Global Refuge, and Planned Parenthood.
- A Commitment to Long-Term Change: Recognize that short-term fixes are not enough; you’ll need a second, more ambitious act.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Rediscover the Definition of the American Dream
Start by reading James Truslow Adams’ original definition. It’s not about wealth or cars—it’s about opportunity for everyone to become their best selves, recognized by others without prejudice. Write this down. Ask yourself: What does this mean in my life today? The journey begins with understanding that the Dream is collective, not individual. As I learned from surveying hundreds of Americans, many still believe in its core promise, but feel it’s broken. Recognizing this shared hope is your first step.
Step 2: Reflect on Your Personal Dream
Take time to journal your answer to the question: “What does the American Dream personally mean to me?” Be honest. Maybe it’s financial security, a good education for your children, or freedom to pursue a passion. But then go deeper: How does your dream connect to others? In my own writing, I had to confront that the Dream is incomplete unless it’s shared. Write down at least one way your dream could help someone else.
Step 3: Find Inspiration in Stories That Teach Sharing
Look for art, books, or films that illustrate the power of community. For me, attending a high school performance of The Outsiders was a revelation. The famous line “stay gold” isn’t just about preserving innocence; it’s about the act of sharing that gold—the Dream—with others. Watch the movie or read the novel. Notice how the characters’ struggles mirror our own. Let stories like this inspire your commitment. Find your own “Outsiders moment.”
Step 4: Make a Pledge to Share the American Dream
Based on the original Pledge to Share the American Dream, write your own pledge. It has two parts:
- Short-term: Commit to donating money or time to organizations that provide immediate relief. Examples from the original pledge include $1 million each to Team Rubicon (disaster relief), Children’s Hunger Fund (food), PEN America (free expression), The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth), NAACP LDF (civil rights), First Generation Investors (financial literacy for underserved youth), Global Refuge (refugee support), and Planned Parenthood (healthcare). Even a small donation echoes this spirit. Choose causes you care about.
- Long-term: Recognize that one-time donations aren’t enough. The second act requires deeper commitment to structural change. Consider supporting infrastructure like Wikipedia, the Internet Archive, open-source software, and independent journalism. These are the foundations of a shared digital commons.
Step 5: Take Action Immediately
Don’t wait. Go to the websites of the organizations above or others you trust. Set up a recurring donation or volunteer sign-up. The original speech encouraged every American to “contribute soon, however you can, to organizations you feel are effectively helping those most currently in need.” Action turns intention into reality. Even $25 makes a difference when combined with millions of others.
Step 6: Plan Your Second Act
Now think bigger. The original pledge described a “much more ambitious second act” that is “deeper, longer”. This might mean advocating for policy changes like a guaranteed minimum income, starting a local mutual aid network, or pledging a percentage of your income for life. Write down one long-term goal. For example: “I will propose a universal basic income pilot in my town” or “I will mentor one young person each year.” This step ensures your sharing is sustainable.
Tips for Success
- Start Small, Think Big: You don’t have to donate millions. A regular $20 monthly gift to one organization creates momentum.
- Involve Your Family: The original pledge came from a family decision. Discuss these steps with your children or partner. Make it a shared mission.
- Focus Locally: While national organizations are vital, also research local food banks, schools, or community centers. Grassroots sharing often has the most immediate impact.
- Stay Informed: Follow the work of the organizations you support. Understand their needs. You can then share their stories with others.
- Celebrate Progress: Every time you donate or volunteer, reflect on how you are helping others “stay gold.” Gratitude fuels commitment.
- Remember the Core Message: The American Dream is not attained alone. As The Outsiders teaches us, sharing is the final realization of the dream. Your actions, however small, are part of that great act.
By following these steps, you can turn the vision of James Truslow Adams into a living reality. The road not taken is the road of sharing. Take it today.