Little Dreams Foundation Circa 2005

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If you have inadvertently arrived here while searching for information about The Little Dreams Foundation,
go to their current website at https://littledreamsfoundation.org/ for all the most up to date information.

 

This was their website for a number of years.
Content is from the site's 2004-2007 archived pages as well as other sources.

Little Dreams Foundation
Place du Marché 1
CH - 1260 Nyon
Suisse 
 
Tél : +41.22.994.40.14
Fax : +41.22.994.40.15

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The Little Dreams Foundation was founded in Switzerland in February 2000 by Phil & Orianne Collins. It was officially launched on 24th September 2001 in Geneva.
The non-profit Little Dreams Foundation is recognized as being beneficial to the general public.

The Foundation aims to make dreams come true for children between the ages of 4 and 16 who have a special gift or talent in athletics or the arts. Every year, the Little Dreams Foundation selects 10 children from throughout the world. These young talents become Foundation members for one year. Throughout the year, each child is evaluated based on his/her progress, motivation, and development in order to determine whether his/her contract with the Foundation will be renewed. The Foundations advisers are helping us to create a personalized program for each child based on his/her age, residence, academic background, and, most of all, his/her dream. 
Advisers monitor, accompany, and assess the children on a monthly basis throughout the year. The godfathers and godmothers of the Little Dreams Foundation select the children and evaluate them at the end of their contract. The selections start every year in September.

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An aside 2020:
I had never heard of the Little Dreams Foundation until I met my next door neighbors. We had hired a major national movers to pack up our household in Baltimore and transport it to NYC. They helped pack and organize this long distance move so there were no glitches along the way. The day after we had mover into our Brooklyn neighborhood, a neighbor dropped by with fresh lemonade and cookies. I was astounded. As our kids played in the back yard together, our far ranging conversation eventually came around to the Little Dreams Foundation. One of her daughters was a gifted swimmer and she had applied. They were awaiting an answer. The neighbor knew it was a long shot, but her daughter's coaches had encouraged them to apply. Although her daughter was not selected, we have been supporters of the foundation ever since.

Four years later in the midst of the Covid 19 pandemic, we no longer get together with our neighbors. Our kids Facetime their friends and are attending school online. We all wear masks when we go out and our visiting is done standing six feet apart, the prescribed social distance. In the initial days of the pandemic, as NYC shut down last March, we faced a technological challenge. Our database, which had been running on Visual FoxPro, was outdated and couldn't handle the e-commerce surge. We realized that our business wouldn't make it unless we found a suitable replacement for Visual FoxPro, especially since our site needed to appear on the first page for at least local searches. We have some foot traffic into our high end furniture store now that NYC has reopened, but we cut the staff to bare minimum. Early in September, we started a social media ad campaign that seems to be paying off. Our Black Friday/ Cyber Monday sales were great, but we need to reach out and gain new customers constantly. I am gratified that we found a reliable tech partner whose input and suggestions on migrating away from Visual FoxPro have made a huge difference. I'm glad we are not in the restaurant business. The pandemic has hit them particularly hard. Everyone is adjusting to this pandemic in one way or another.

As far as  the Little Dreams Foundation's response to the COVID-19 crisis,  their critical programs and fundraising efforts have gone fully virtual, ensuring beneficiaries continue to receive high-quality training despite limitations brought on by social distancing guidelines. What a year to be celebrating its 20th Anniversary. In April, LDF provided relief to families around the world suffering from the devastating affects brought on by the global pandemic. SO far this year the foundation has delivered more than 100 fresh meals for Jackson Health workers and raised funds for LDF families in Zimbabwe and Morocco in need of essential resources such as meals and medical aid.

Little Dreams Foundation currently is calling on supporters to make a minimum contribution of $20 in honor of the 20th Anniversary at littledreamsfoundation.org/donation. Please consider a donation. This year’s fundraising efforts will culminate with the foundation’s virtual event in December, honoring LDF co-founder Phil Collins and the achievements of Little Dreamers and featuring performances by award-winning artists.

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PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF THE LITTLE DREAMS FOUNDATION

The aim of the Little Dreams Foundation is to realise the dreams of children in the fields of sport and art. 

The Foundation currently has 10 worlds of dreams:

1. The world of track & field
2. The world of mountain
3. The world of nautica
4. The world of music & dance
5. The world of comedy & cinema
6. The world of wheel
7. The world of arts
8. The world of ball
9. The world of circus
10. The world of extreme

Each world is subdivided into different categories, which are sponsored by professionals in the field.
We are privileged to count amongst the sponsors of the Foundation the following personalities:
 

 
The task of the Foundation's sponsors is to select future prodigies. Following an initial selection, the board of the Foundation decides whether to provide financial support for young talent. 
 
The Foundation pays for the studies, education and training of young talents within the capacity of its financial resources and to a level that the board of the Foundation decides to make available. It also participates (if it so decides) in the acquisition of the various equipment that these young talents need to develop their careers and realise their dreams under the best conditions. 
 
Every year, the sponsors concerned and the board of the Foundation assess the motivation and progress of the children in order to decide whether or not to extend the collaboration.
 
The Foundation is comprised of three categories of children:
 
The Children:

1. From 4 to 8 years 2. From 8 to 14 years 3. From 14 to 16 years

Mini Junior Junior-High

 
The Foundation may support young talents up to the age of majority with the approval and agreement of their parents. The Foundation is contractually bound to the children up until they reach the age of majority. As soon as they reach the age of majority, the Foundation may make a commitment to help guide the careers of the children, if possible in their preferred domain. 
 
Through partnership and collaboration between the Foundation and various federations and associations, educational establishments, both public and private, and various organisations, the Foundation children are assured of a solid future in pursuit of their passion. 
 
The aim of the Little Dreams Foundation is to realise the dreams of children in the fields of sport and art. 
 
In order to achieve this aim, the Little Dreams Foundation has set itself the task of:

• Finding the financial resources needed to achieve the objectives of the Foundation
• To manage the assets of the Foundation
• To grant the children of the Foundation the necessary funds to realise their dreams
      (training, equipment, etc.).
• To create partnerships with federations, associations, academies, schools, universities, 
      training centres and private training and courses.
• To find partners and sponsors for the Foundation
• To maintain privileged relations with the sponsors of the Foundation.
• To find members to support the Foundation.
• To protect the rights of the children of the Foundation.
• To find the necessary resources to maintain the rights of the children.

 

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Little Dreams Foundation Circa 2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In order to be selected, children must send a complete file documenting and detailing their activities in their chosen world (the file may include photos, audio and/or video recordings, competition results, performances, letters of recommendation, cover letter, photocopy of identity card, etc.).

The files are sent to the Technical Advisors who decide which ones combines criterions are required by the Foundation.

A meeting is organized between the selected candidates, the Godparents and the Technical Advisors.

The Foundation will make a final decision to determined which young talents will be helped.

Contract & feedback
The Little Dreams Foundation is bound contractually to the child for a period of one year, renewable each year depending on the child’s progress and motivation.

Through partnerships and collaborations between the Foundation and various federations, associations, and public educational establishments, both state-run and private, the children of the Foundation are provided with professional training and support to pursue their dreams.

How to become a “kid”?
In order to be able to examine carefully your candidacy, we would be grateful if you could send us the following information before the 31st of October of the current year.

• Your complete references (address, phone, fax, e-mail, website, etc.)
• Your biography
• A copy of your passport or identity card (for minors, the one of the legal representative)
• A few words explaining your own motivations and your ” DREAM “
• Your news (results, shows, etc.)
• A video tape or an audio tape
• A few pictures of you
• Your budget

Once we receive all the information requested and examine your full application, we will get back to you.

Grants
The Little Dreams Foundation provides financial support for the children they have selected.

Each child receives a personalised program catered to his or her age, place of residence, city of residence, country of residence, personality, and capabilities.

The program is designed with the help of our technical Advisors and other staff members of the Foundation. A regular assessment is made by the Foundation’s doctor, psychologist, and advisors to ensure that each child is maintaining a healthy physical and mental balance.

Example of a Sports grant (not exclusive):

• Sporting materials
• Training Courses
• Annual Club fees & charges
• Application charges for Tournaments
• Summer Camps
• Personal Trainers
• Travelling charges

Example of an Arts grant (not exclusive):

• Practice in a professional recording studio (once a week)
• Training Courses
• Travelling expenses (rehearsals, concerts, workshops, etc.)
• Hotel expenses
• Musical Instruments
• Camps (Berklee College of Music in Boston)

Achievements

Info from: www.ldf.cc/en/achievements

To date, the Little Dreams Foundation is please to have supported hundreds of children around the world.

Amongst the hundreds of children, here are just a few who have reached their dreams :

• Nicolas Peifer (FRA - Wheelchair Tennis), Silver Medalist (Men's Doubles) at the 2012 London Olympics
• Timea Bacsinsky (SUI - Tennis) N°1 in Switzerland, WTA 37 in 2010
• Timothée Manand (BEL - Figure Skating) attended the Youth Olympic Games in 2012
• Nathalie Brugger (SUI - Sailing) 6th place at the Beijing Olympics and 14th at the 2012 London Olympics
• Alizée Cornet (FRA - Tennis) WTA 11in 2009
• Anaïs Morand and Antoine Dorsaz (SUI - Couples Figure Skating) competed at the Vancouver Winter Olympics
• Simona de Silvestro (SUI - Motorsports), the youngest female in Motorsports
• Joe Frank (SUI - Guitarist) performs with Earth, Wind and Fire
• Joni Fuller (UK - Singer) won the Junior Eurovision contest
• Arnaud Tonus (SUI - Motocross) finished 7th at 2010 World Championship
• Sacha Décosterd (SUI - Karaté Kyokushin) 2011 World Champion
• Fatima Zohra El Allami (MAR - Tennis) Triple African Champion, Woman of the year in Morocco in 2009
• Emi Vauthey (SUI - Circus) currently at the Eloize Circus in Montreal
• Tessa Worley (FRA - Ski) became World Champion in giant slalom in february 2013
• Lica de Guzman (SUI - Singer), was signed to Universal at age 14
• Clyde Philippoz (SUI - Theatre), shooting a film «Sur la piste du Marsupilami», Directed by Alain Chabat

All these dreams could not have been achieved without your valuable support!

 

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More Background On The Little Dreams Foundation

 

The Little Dreams Foundation (LDF) stands as a unique global initiative dedicated to discovering and nurturing talented children in sports, music, and the arts. Founded by legendary British musician Phil Collins and his then-wife Orianne Collins in February 2000, the foundation aims to transform the aspirations of gifted children into reality—offering them training, mentorship, and financial support.

From its headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, and later expanding into the United States, the foundation has touched the lives of hundreds of children across continents. By identifying “Little Dreamers” from underprivileged or modest backgrounds, LDF becomes more than a talent incubator—it becomes a bridge between promise and achievement.

Founding Vision and Philosophy

The foundation's vision is rooted in equal opportunity and personalized development. As Phil Collins explains, LDF exists to “advocate and provide children in music, art and sports personalized training and supervision to facilitate their passions and help fulfill their dreams.”

Rather than limiting its efforts to a single discipline, LDF encompasses a broad array of worlds—or artistic and athletic domains—each with its own structure, mentors, and programs. Children aged 4 to 16 are eligible to apply and, once selected, receive tailor-made plans that align with their unique needs, talents, and life circumstances.

Organizational Structure and Key Components

The Little Dreams Foundation is organized around 10 "Worlds of Dreams," representing various sectors in sports and arts:

• The World of Track & Field
• The World of Nautica (Sailing)
• The World of Music & Dance
• The World of Comedy & Cinema
• The World of Mountain
• The World of Wheel (Motorsports)
• The World of Arts (Drawing, Literature, Painting, Culinary)
• The World of Ball (Football, Tennis)
• The World of Circus
• The World of Extreme (Martial Arts, Snowboarding)

Each “World” is led by a godfather or godmother, who is typically a celebrated professional in that field. Notable figures who have taken on mentorship roles include:

• Phil Collins, Angélique Kidjo, Claude Nobs, and Pierre Amoyal in music
• Christophe Lambert, Muriel Robin, and Michel Boujenah in cinema and comedy
• David Douillet, Yannick Noah, and Jean-Pierre Papin in sports
• Patrick Poivre-d’Arvor and Clive Collins in literature and cartooning

The personalized development plan is core to the foundation’s model. Every child is assigned a team of advisors, including doctors, psychologists, and performance coaches, who regularly assess progress, motivation, and mental well-being. Based on this evaluation, contracts with the foundation are renewed annually.

Application Process: Turning Hope into Opportunity

Prospective “Little Dreamers” are encouraged to apply before October 31st each year by submitting a detailed portfolio. This includes:

• Biography
• Letters of recommendation
• Competition records or performance samples
• Photos, audio or video recordings
• Personal statement describing their dream
• Budget estimates for training and equipment
• Proof of age and residency

Applications are evaluated by the foundation’s technical advisors, followed by interviews with mentors. The foundation’s board then makes the final decision, entering into a one-year renewable contract with selected children.

There are three age-based categories:

• Mini: 4–8 years
• Junior: 8–14 years
• Junior-High: 14–16 years

Support can extend until the child reaches the age of majority, often with continuing assistance as they pursue professional careers.

Financial and Logistical Support

Once selected, each Little Dreamer benefits from an individualized budget to cover training, travel, materials, and more. For instance:

In Sports:

• Sporting gear and equipment
• Personal coaching
• Club membership and tournament fees
• Travel and lodging for competitions

In the Arts:

• Music studio sessions
• Travel to concerts, workshops, and rehearsals
• Instruments or art supplies
• Summer programs (e.g., at Berklee College of Music)

These resources are not provided as blanket grants but are tailored to the actual needs of each child, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and holistic development.

Global Expansion and United States Launch

While the foundation began in Switzerland, it gained significant momentum with its U.S. expansion, particularly in Miami, Florida. The Miami chapter reflects the foundation's efforts to tap into North and South American talent while engaging a broader donor and sponsor network.

Miami also hosts one of LDF's signature events—"Dreaming on the Beach," a star-studded annual benefit gala that features world-renowned entertainers and young Dreamers performing together. These events raise critical funds to sustain and expand the foundation's reach.

Notable Events and Public Recognition

LDF has received broad media coverage, not just for its philanthropic work but for its highly visible Benefit Galas, hosted by Phil Collins himself. These events typically attract over 2,000 attendees, including:

• Celebrities
• Socialites
• Entrepreneurs
• Music producers
• International press

Highlights from past galas include:

• An intimate performance by Phil Collins
• Silent and live auctions with luxury goods
• Collaborations with the IRIE Foundation, which supports underserved youth in Miami
• Performances by emerging Dreamers alongside Grammy-winning artists

According to The Hollywood Times, the 2016 event alone featured “Little Dreamers, global entertainers, and premier donors raising awareness and millions in funds.”

Achievements and Alumni Highlights

Since its inception, the Little Dreams Foundation has supported hundreds of young artists and athletes, many of whom have achieved international acclaim.

Selected Alumni Achievements:

• Nicolas Peifer (France) – Silver medalist in Wheelchair Tennis, 2012 London Olympics
• Timea Bacsinsky (Switzerland) – Former world #1 in Swiss Tennis, WTA rank #37
• Timothée Manand (Belgium) – Competitor at the 2012 Youth Olympic Games, Figure Skating
• Nathalie Brugger (Switzerland) – Olympic sailor, 6th in Beijing, 14th in London
• Alizée Cornet (France) – WTA Top 11 in 2009
• Anaïs Morand and Antoine Dorsaz (Switzerland) – Competed in 2010 Vancouver Olympics, Figure Skating
• Joe Frank (Switzerland) – Guitarist who performed with Earth, Wind & Fire
• Simona de Silvestro (Switzerland) – Motorsports star and the youngest female in the field
• Emi Vauthey (Switzerland) – Featured performer at Montreal’s Eloize Circus

These success stories underscore the foundation's effectiveness in identifying and cultivating elite talent.

Response to COVID-19 and Virtual Expansion

Like many global nonprofits, LDF adapted its operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The foundation pivoted to a fully virtual training model, ensuring that its mission continued despite social distancing restrictions. In 2020, LDF:

• Delivered 100+ fresh meals to frontline hospital workers at Jackson Health in Miami
• Provided emergency financial aid to families in Morocco and Zimbabwe
• Launched virtual music and arts lessons for children in lockdown
• Hosted its 20th Anniversary Gala virtually, celebrating two decades of impact

This resilience and adaptability further cemented LDF’s standing as a modern, digitally-capable foundation.

Cultural Significance and Philanthropic Impact

More than just a talent incubator, the Little Dreams Foundation plays a crucial cultural role:

• Bridging the gap between raw talent and elite performance opportunities
• Normalizing access to professional development for underprivileged children
• Promoting cross-cultural mentorship and collaboration
• Serving as a model for private-public arts partnerships

Its partnerships with schools, academies, federations, and sponsors have created a global support network capable of sustaining long-term growth for its young members.

Audience and Supporter Base

LDF attracts a diverse audience:

• Parents of talented children who seek accessible development programs
• Educators and coaches seeking partnership opportunities
• Corporate and private donors looking to invest in global talent
• Celebrities and influencers who act as mentors or attend events
• Philanthropic networks across Europe, North America, and Africa

Supporters are often invited to become recurring donors, attend benefit galas, or directly sponsor individual Little Dreamers.

Dreaming Bigger with LDF

The Little Dreams Foundation represents an inspiring blueprint for philanthropic excellence in the 21st century. With a dual focus on personalization and professionalism, it has proven that dreams are not bound by geography or economics—they only need the right environment to grow.

From Olympic athletes to internationally signed musicians, LDF has demonstrated an unmatched ability to guide young people toward success. And thanks to the ongoing dedication of its founders, mentors, and supporters, that legacy of dreams fulfilled shows no signs of slowing down.

 

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