Still the one: the enduring value of Dreams Come True initiative

We launched Dreams Come True almost a decade ago. It was our first bold, values-anchored initiative. The idea was simple: support people in doing something personally meaningful, then let that energy flow back into Osedea. 

The program offers, after 2 years of service: 1 week of additional paid vacation, 2 weeks of additional unpaid vacation, and a $5,000 grant to pursue a personal project. The $5,000 can be converted into additional time off or used for the project. This benefit renews every 5 years. 

It’s still as relevant today as when we started. As a generation, we are time starved (How ‘Time Poverty’ at Work Makes You Less Healthy from Time). Nearly half of Americans say they feel they don’t have enough time, and research shows that this “time poverty” isn’t just stressful, it’s linked to poorer health, lower well-being, and even reduced generosity. That’s why programs like Dreams Come True matter.  They give back what so many of us are missing. Quality time and resources to focus on what matters most.

What we’ve learned (beyond retention)

We didn’t design this as a retention lever. What we see in practice is stronger engagement and healthier work life harmony.

• Renewed energy and perspective. People come back with fresh ideas that raise the bar for clients and peers.
• Growth that sticks. Whether it’s a physical challenge, study time, or a family project, the experience builds confidence and skills we use at work.
• A culture of sharing. Return stories spark curiosity and motivate others to plan goals of their own, strengthening community.

A few real examples

These aren’t hypotheticals. Team members have used Dreams Come True to:

• Summit Denali, the highest mountain in North America, after months of training, then translate judgment under pressure into project leadership.
• Take an extended family trip to France to reconnect across generations of family.
• Road-trip the Maritimes with a first child and return with clarity on priorities and focus.
• Finish a study program, applying the grant to reduce work hours and complete key courses.
• Travel with a parent through Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia, a memory bank that fuels purpose at work.
• Live abroad in Vietnam to explore culture and stretch comfort zones.
• Renovate a kitchen to freshen up a living space. 

Team stories

“Being with family is one of those priceless gifts in life, especially when they live an ocean away. Recently, I had the joy of traveling back to Toulouse, where I was able to not only reconnect with my loved ones but also introduce them to my newborn daughter for the very first time. It was an emotional and unforgettable moment, filled with love, gratitude, and a sense of coming full circle. I came back with a heart fuller than ever, and with a renewed balance that I carry with me into both my personal and professional life.”
Grégory

“Taking a road trip through the Maritimes with my child allowed me to slow down and enjoy the moment. It gave me clarity on priorities and renewed focus when I came back.”

Thierry 

"Traveling with my mom through Asia was an unforgettable experience. It left me inspired with new perspectives, refreshed and grateful."

Andrea

“Being in Vietnam pushed me out of my comfort zone. Immersing myself in a new culture changed my perspective, and that curiosity carries into how I approach projects today.”

Ivana

“Dreams Come True gave me the chance to completely renovate the kitchen in my new condo. Having the time and support to do this project made the experience less stressful. ”

Robin

Why this still matters

It’s our way to signal life goals are taken seriously to current and future team members. We hope we’ve inspired you to think about being bold with initiatives you put forward.