Karter's Dream

Karter and Ben had the most incredible Dream weekend in Atlanta, Georgia for the College Football Playoff National Championship! Day one started with a virtual send off for both boys where Dream On 3 and Shepherd Center staff congratulated them on their amazing achievements and wished them well on the weekend ahead.

Upon arrival in Georgia, the Signia Hotel rolled out the red carpet for both families. Falcons Cheerleaders, DO3 Atlanta council members, volunteers, and friends were waiting with handmade signs and lots of love. Our amazing College Football Playoff hosts, Vanessa and Willie also welcomed the boys and their families by sharing weekend details while gifting everyone CFP swag.

Night one was capped off with an incredible private dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. Upon arrival, the boys were greeted by an amazing set up including personalized gifts. Thank you to Aaron Behar, Marc Leftoff, Amy Nichols, and Shelley Coplin for their personalized touches and gifts. Here, the boys were surprised by five special guests; former UGA and pro players Travis Stroud, Orson Charles, Orantes Grant, Rennie Curran, and Quincy Carter! After prayer and a special welcome from DO3 staff, Travis spoke to the boys, and we watched a video message from Braves star Michael Harris II!

The group enjoyed appetizers, steak dinners, and great conversation. The evening was covered by funds from the College Football Squares fundraiser and the Susie and Ira Berman Family Trust. It was a dreamy start to an amazing weekend!

On day two, we were VIP guests at the official CFP Media Day. Both Karter and Ben were able to collect autographs from some of their favorite players on their personalized footballs gifted to them from the CFP team.

Karter had an amazing moment meeting Ohio State Quarterback, Will Howard, who was incredibly humble and kind. He not only took pictures and signed Karter’s football but also recorded a special message for all our Dreamers. Then we met #51, Luke Montgomery, who went above and beyond in his time with Karter. He asked Karter about his story, chatted about his brother (a freshman QB at UGA), and even gave Karter his phone number, offering to help him attend a Dawgs game. Later, Luke texted back, saying how awesome it was to meet Karter and told him to stay in touch—such a class act!

After a few news interviews, Karter was able to meet Kirk Herbstreit and hot dog eating champion, Joey Chestnut. Later, Karter camped out for Notre Dame Quarterback, Riley Leonard’s interview. When Riley finished his media session, we scooted to the front and asked him what message he’d give to our Dreamers. He was thoughtful, humble, and inspirational, making sure to ask for both Karter and Ben’s names before responding. It was such a special moment!

After collecting some more autographs and snapping some more photos, we headed to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a VIP tour. Everyone loved having the opportunity to be on the field and see the special welcome for Karter and Ben on the big screen. The night ended with VIP access to the Sharecare Circle at State Farm Arena, courtesy of CFP. Gucci Mane kicked things off, followed by a DJ, and finally, Lil Wayne graced the stage and the boys partied until the end of the show.

Day three included an amazing College Football Hall of Fame tour with the incredible Yomand Brown, VP of Marketing, Sales, and Communications. Everyone loved the tour, which even included singing karaoke! The HOF team also surprised Karter and Ben with $250 to spend in the gift store. We are so grateful for the College Football HOF team who went above and beyond for our Dreamers and their families!

After a delicious lunch at Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria, it was time for games in the Fan Zone before a nap. That evening everyone regrouped for the Taste of the Championship event at the Georgia Aquarium. Filled with yummy food and an amazing setting, everyone had a great time together. The evening ended with a lively Camila Cabello concert where the group had VIP access.

Day four marked the official DREAM DAY! Karter and his family started their day at Bury the Hatchet, an axe throwing arena in downtown Atlanta. By 4 PM, the hotel lobby was buzzing with Ohio State and Notre Dame fans, creating an electric atmosphere. We met up with our CFP hosts, Vanessa and Willie, and Ryan Hall, CFP Senior Director of Public Events and Sponsorships, who brought more incredible gifts for the dream kids. Karter received a signed UGA helmet from Kirby Smart, while Ben got a signed hat from Tennessee’s coach, Josh Heupel. Both boys also received hand-painted footballs featuring the CFP 2025 logo and commemorative coins. After hugs and thank-yous, we headed upstairs to the VIP CFP tailgate party.

The tailgate was incredible—a massive ballroom filled with games, food, music, and energy. The boys posed for photos, and we indulged in airbrushed tattoos, countless fried mac and cheese balls, and lots of laughter. At 6:15 PM, we bundled up and joined 77,000 of our closest friends for the walk to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Our seats in Section 105, corner endzone, were phenomenal. We grabbed snacks and drinks and soaked in the pregame festivities. The game itself was thrilling—Karter’s family cheered for Notre Dame, while Ben’s family rooted for Ohio State. Even though Ben and his family were able to “officially” celebrate the win, we all celebrated the win of spending the weekend together!

This entire experience was more than a dream—it was pure magic. The memories made this weekend will last a lifetime.

Thank you to the Berman Foundation for sponsoring Karter’s Dream!