Our Story

A Small Idea with a Big Heart

Dream Makers began nearly a decade ago when Dr. Ronda Beaman gathered eight close friends around a shared question: What if we could bring comfort, joy, and meaning to someone’s final days—right here in our own community?

Together, they created something quietly powerful: a volunteer-led effort to fulfill final wishes for terminally ill adults in San Luis Obispo County. Not extravagant gestures—but simple, personal dreams made real with love and care.

Since that first wish, Dream Makers has grown into an executive board of 12 and is nearing its 10th year. In that time, we’ve helped make almost 100 lifelong dreams come true—one backyard concert, family reunion, and beach sunset at a time.

Rooted in compassion and community spirit, Dream Makers continues to honor the lives and legacies of our neighbors, one meaningful moment at a time.

Built by Love, Carried by Many

Dream Makers began with a single wish and a group of friends who believed that even the simplest dreams could bring comfort and peace to those facing the end of life.

Since then, this effort has grown because of the incredible community that surrounds it.

We are endlessly grateful to the many people who have helped make nearly 100 dreams come true:

  • Dreamers and their families who have welcomed us into their lives with openness and courage

  • Healthcare professionals who have trusted us with their patients

  • Board members who have offered their time, care, and leadership

  • Local businesses who have donated services, space, meals, and a portion of their sales

  • Volunteers and donors who have stepped up when a dream needed a little extra magic

This is truly a community effort — powered by kindness, creativity, and a shared belief that everyone deserves a moment of joy, dignity, and connection at the end of life.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you.

We want to extend special thanks to our supporters in the SLO community