There's More Than One Definition for The American Dream. What's Yours?

We're excited to inaugurate a new series for our Patch readers that we’re calling "Dispatches: The Changing American Dream."

Every day, the national media is full of stories about how American families, businesses, and neighbors are adjusting to these trying times. There are so many changes happening so fast that it's dizzying: national debates about unemployment, foreclosures, debt, religion, government and private enterprise all touch on fundamental ways in which we see ourselves and our communities. At Patch, we want to explore that conversation so we can better understand how our neighbors are adjusting to the challenges and opportunities around us.

We don't think there's just one American Dream, but many different American Dreams that people are working toward. Looking out across nearly almost 900 Patch sites, we see businesses holding their breath deciding whether to expand; because they can't find jobs; and senior citizens bringing boarders into their homes to help pay their bills. We also see inspiring stories of because they innovated, and locals who've taken these trying times as a signal to , not less, in their government.

At the purely local level, we want to know where we, as New Canaan neighbors, fit along these fault lines.

Nationally, there's a debate about which government-building efforts are "shovel-ready." In New Canaan, we have our own debates about , the and , to name a few of the issues that matter to residents. Across the country there's a debate about the education system, which is at the center of our dreams of a better life for our children. The New Canaan public school system is a matter of , and  in a challenging economic environment is of paramount concern, as is for our students to learn and grow. These issues are not the jurisdiction of a national politician, but of our local educators and administrators.

"Dispatches" will focus on the compelling vignettes and snapshots we unearth across all of our Patch sites. What issues matter most to you? What issues help you define – and will help you attain – your American Dream? 

There are nearly 20,000 people living in New Canaan and, quite possibly, just as many definitions of the American Dream. We want your help: Tell us what issues and what stories in New Canaan go to the heart of your American Dream.