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A CHILD'S DREAM FOUNDATION
About Us
A Child’s D.R.E.A.M. Foundation, Inc., is Baguio City’s first pediatric therapy center for exceptional children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Problems, Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Language Disorders, Down Syndrome, Giftedness, Hearing and Vision Problems, Learning Disabilities, Intellectual Disability, or Sensory Impairments.
Born from the vision of Dr. Francis Xavier Dimalanta, A Child’s D.R.E.A.M. Foundation is Baguio’s first pediatric therapy center for exceptional needs children.
Located in an area underserved by health services for atypical development, the D.R.E.A.M. Foundation aims to reverse this dynamic by providing the highest quality holistic care.
Through comprehensive assessments and customized programs, the Foundation strives to empower every child to achieve his or her full potential.
Dr. Francis Dimalanta is Founder & Medical Director of Baguio City’s “A Child’s DREAM (Developmental Rehabilitative Early Assessment & Management) Foundation, Inc.”, aimed at providing holistic care for special children in Northern Luzon and the Cordilleras.
His vision of bringing education where it is needed the most is answered in his involvement in the Cartwheel Foundation – a non-profit organization that helps educate indigenous children and communities.
A Child’s D.R.E.A.M. Foundation takes pride in having assisted over 11,554 children and over 21,362 parents, guardians, siblings, teachers and caregivers from the Philippines and around the world.
To date, the Foundation has held over 485 public community workshops, administered seminars to business and social groups throughout the region, and has worked with city officials to draft ordinances that benefit families with autism.
Our Services
Assessments
Developmental and behavioral pediatricians conduct comprehensive developmental and medical assessments to support the well-being of all children.
Through this process, a child's unique strengths and experiences are carefully evaluated, helping to identify necessary services and prioritize their individual needs.
Therapy
Supportive care and treatments designed to help children grow, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential.
We guide your child in building confidence and improving speech, thinking, social skills, balance, and strength—empowering them to navigate life with resilience and shine in their own unique way.
Special Education
We support and prepare children whose educational needs extend beyond the standard school curriculum.
Our specialized services include comprehensive assessments, individualized tutoring, and customized programs—all designed to boost your child’s academic performance and set them up for success in school.
Workshops
D.R.E.A.M offers thoughtfully designed workshops that ignite imagination, stimulate the senses, and build meaningful social connections in children.
These engaging sessions provide both kids and adults with enjoyable opportunities to learn, explore, and express themselves in a supportive and enriching environment.
2025 HIGHLIGHT
From Grief to Grace:
A Vatican Reflection
This reflection arises from a crucible of profound grief and undeniable grace — tracing a journey through loss, renewal, and quiet transformation. In recent months, life has unfolded in ways both humbling and holy: I left a beloved home of twelve years and bid a final farewell to my dearest Mom. My sister, Anne Marie, continues to wage a courageous battle against ovarian cancer, having endured a grueling twelve-hour surgery and the challenging path of chemotherapy. Yet, amid such trials, I have found myself surrounded by blessings beyond measure — none more unexpected than the invitation to speak at the Vatican. I no longer seek to question the why behind these interwoven moments of sorrow and triumph. My prayer now is simpler: for the strength to persevere, and for the steadfast faith to recognize God’s hand in all things — in both comfort and tribulation. This pilgrimage carries even deeper meaning, for today coincides with the thirteenth death anniversary of my beloved father, Johnnie M. Dimalanta — a man of unshakable faith and integrity, whose life of service was honored with the Order of St. Sylvester Papal Award in 2010. His guiding spirit continues to illuminate my path, especially as I embraced the sacred privilege of speaking on a Vatican stage. In the wake of losing you, Mom, I clung more tightly than ever to the embrace of grace. On your 40th day, I dedicated my Vatican lecture to you — “In Defense of the Defenseless: The Adolescent Emergency through the Eyes of Saint Francis.” It was a reflection of your own life’s quiet mission — always standing in defense of the defenseless. This extraordinary journey to the Vatican — where I was given the distinct honor of sharing insights from 25 years as a developmental pediatrician — became a lesson in humility, inner peace, and the redemptive power of forgiveness. It was a gentle yet resounding reminder that even amid hardship, God’s path unfolds toward unforeseen blessings and opportunities to serve on a higher plane. I was further graced with a private audience with Pope Leo, together with the speakers and delegates of the International Seminar— a moment that remains etched in both awe and gratitude. To crown this pilgrimage, I witnessed the deeply moving concert at St. Peter’s Square, “Grace for the World,” co-directed by Andrea Bocelli and Pharrell Williams — a luminous celebration of human connection that brought together artists such as John Legend and Karol G, culminating in a breathtaking drone and light show. To be recognized for the work I am called to do is a privilege beyond words — a divine affirmation that every sorrow surrendered, every act of service, and every moment of faith is never in vain. May we all continue to walk the paths God sets before us — finding profound joy in the smallest of things, and trusting fully in His boundless grace. ⎯ You may watch Dr. Francis Dimalanta's Full Vatican Lecture by pressing play on the video below. ↓
HELPING OUR CHILDREN REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL
OUR IMPACT
Along with direct treatment, the Foundation also conducts community development initiatives.
In recognition of D.R.E.A.M.’s strong voice in special needs advocacy, the Foundation was awarded the inaugural 2014 SENIA Honorary Certificate for Advocacy in Singapore.
11,686
Children Helped
21,413
Parents &/ Teachers Assisted
486
Workshops Held
Accreditation 2024 with
Charities Aid Foundation America
Organizations that have been validated by CAF International have completed an extensive application and due diligence process with one of CAF International’s Global Offices. The CAF International Validated Organization Badge is awarded to organizations that are structured and operated as nonprofit entities. This is confirmed by a validation process that goes far beyond a simple reliance on a foreign government database. The CAF International validation process includes a review of an organization’s key operational elements such as their governance structure, registration status, annual financial statements, online and media presence, and their board members and senior staff. This validation process ensures that all funds sent to the organization will be used charitably, and it allows CAF International and their donors to mitigate the risk of fraud, money laundering, and other criminal activities.
DEDICATED, HOLISTIC
Karim Pacis
May 2010, Mitchell can only write the word ‘Mitchell’. After 3 months in A Child’s DREAM, he can write up to 25 words. Not only can he write words, he can also communicate at a higher level. His fine motor skills have increased ten fold with the help of the Occupational Therapist.
We certainly will be back for more. See you soon!
Edwin Hawson
Dr. Dimalanta is the rare breed of medical professional who not only possesses great skill and expertise in his field of developmental pediatrics, but also the empathy and understanding that is so much appreciated by parents seeking consultation for their children.
Thank you Dr. Dimalanta for all your help to us!
Maricar Rosal
Through the last nearly 10 years, Francis has ably guided me and my husband in obtaining the optimum educational, therapy, and medical support for Ina, our daughter with Down Syndrome.
His periodic evaluation of Ina runs smoothly since our daughter is comfortable with him. He easily puts my daughter at ease through conversation and play, that Ina is unaware that Francis is already conducting tests on her.