WHAT IS THE DREAM GAP?
Research shows that starting at age 5, many girls develop self-limiting beliefs and begin to think they're not as smart and capable as boys. They stop believing their gender can do or be anything. This is called the Dream Gap, and to help close it, Barbie launched the Dream Gap Project in 2018. This ongoing global initiative gives girls the resources and support they need to continue believing in themselves. Check below to see how you can get involved too!
ABOUT THE DREAM GAP PROJECT
Barbie established the Dream Gap Project with $250,000 in March 2019 to help close the dream gap.
Barbie has partnered with GoFundMe to crowdsource additional funding to help close the dream gap. Funds raised will go toward leveling the playing field for girls by providing tools, resources, and support to organizations on the ground working to change the lives of girls around the world.
The $250,000 raised in March 2019 will be distributed to the three charities below. We encourage you to donate as well. Or if you'd like to donate, please select from one of the following organizations.
-
She's the First teams up with local organizations to make sure girls are educated, respected, and heard.
-
She Should Run encourages girls of all ages to pursue leadership roles and politics.
-
Step Up emboldens teen girls to become confident, college-bound, and career-focused.
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
Please join us in our efforts to close the Dream Gap. Visit our GoFundMe campaign to help support organizations that are doing vital work to inspire and empower girls.
DONATE NOW
Connect with like-minded supporters and receive real-time updates in the Dream Gap Facebook Group.
JOIN THE CONVERSATIONHOW BARBIE IS WORKING TO CLOSE THE DREAM GAP
As the original girl empowerment brand, Barbie is committed to inspiring the limitless potential in every girl. The dream gap is contrary to our beliefs and brand purpose, that's why we're using our platform and resources to champion change and show girls they can be anything!
-
Conducting Research
We're working with NYU and UCLA's Center for Scholars and Storytellers to research the Dream Gap and develop a school curriculum that addresses it. Globally, we're researching issues that prevent girls around the world from reaching their potential.
-
Highlighting Role Models
We'll feature at least 10 female role models each year, because imagining she can be anything is just the beginning. Actually seeing that she can makes all the difference.
LEARN MORE
-
Creating Inspiring Content
Impactful content is one of the most powerful ways to reach girls and inspire them to believe! We'll continue to tell stories that address the issues they face in unique, approachable, and meaningful ways.
WATCH NOW -
Encouraging Purposeful Play
From our Career Dolls to the Inspiring Women series, Barbie products encourage imagination, expression, and discovery through play. Girls can explore all their dreams as they learn that anything is possible!
SEE PRODUCTS
MORE TIPS FOR HELPING GIRLS
Together, we can help girls transcend the Dream Gap. Here are more great ways to support the girls in your life:
-
Show Them Positive Role Models
Introduce girls to stories about women of all ages and all walks of life. As a result, they'll begin to see more opportunities for themselves.
-
Challenge Gender Stereotypes
Limit their exposure to media that reinforces negative stereotypes. Instead, share content that challenges those stereotypes.
-
See More Tips
-
Nurture Social and Emotional Learning
Discuss topics like overcoming challenges, collaborating with others, dealing with negative emotions, and believing in yourself.
-
Do Confidence-Building Activities
When it comes to success, confidence matters just as much as competence.
-
Stimulate Their Imaginations
Encourage discovery through open-ended, unstructured play that fosters creativity and innovation.
-
Support Their Dreams
Actively encourage the girls in your life to pursue their dreams. Show and tell girls that they can do anything!
