WHERE WE STARTED
Since our inception in 2014, Never Quit Dreaming (NQD) has been on a transformative journey to provide recreational activities for those who face challenges participating in "mainstream" competition. It all began with the support of AYSO - West Oahu, and in our inaugural season, we welcomed three players into our program. From those humble beginnings, we've grown to become a beacon of hope and inclusion in Hawaii.
In 2018, the Firebirds rose, marking a significant milestone in our mission. NQD became the first and only baseball program in Hawaii dedicated to children and youth who find it challenging to play on "mainstream" teams. We continue to be a vital resource for this community.
Our commitment to breaking barriers extended in 2018 when we joined forces with the ELS for Autism Foundation, becoming the official program provider for the #gameonautism golf program in the state of Hawaii. This golf program is the only one of its kind in Hawaii, offering accessible opportunities for those with unique needs.
In 2019, we reached a new milestone with the introduction of Tsunami Basketball, the first non-competitive basketball program in Hawaii designed for those with special needs. This initiative opened doors to inclusivity and the joy of sports for even more children.
In 2020, we proudly introduced the Wax Academy, powered by NQD. It stands as the world's first and only DJ program offered to such a community. This program empowers participants to unlock their creativity through music, enabling them to speed up/slow down songs, add sound effects, and gradually expose their senses to the sights, sounds, and touch of a DJ controller.
In 2022, Never Quit Dreaming achieved another significant milestone by becoming the first Certified Autism Center in Hawaii. This accomplishment underscores our unwavering commitment to the special needs community, specifically those on the autism spectrum. In a place often called paradise, NQD strives to be a pioneer of change, making Hawaii a symbol of understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.
At Never Quit Dreaming, we are more than an organization; we are a family. Join us on this extraordinary journey of empowerment, growth, and dreams realized. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of the remarkable children we serve.