Bree, a high school student living in Dallas, Texas, has a natural intellect and a desire to succeed. More than that, Bree has a dream -- a dream that is quite unlike her peers at her city high school. Bree wants to go to college, study biology and make a name for herself in this world. In a city filled with drugs, crime and violence, her world is in constant conflict with her vision. Bree's personal story intersects against a familial backdrop that provides challenges at every turn. Her father is a drunk who is absent, both physically and emotionally, more than he is present. His abusive tendencies have driven away her brother towards a life embracing the criminal underbelly of the city. Bree's mother is exhausted and overworked as she tries to make ends meet while living under the burdens of abuse as well. Along the way, Bree, her family and her friends continue to be confronted with challenges that are inherent to inner city Dallas life. Above all, Bree's personal journey coincides with a greater purpose: helping others just like her rise above their plights and situations. Bree begins volunteering at a Dallas crisis hotline with the hopes of having a great volunteer experience for her college application, and she quickly realizes that her volunteer role is helping to make a difference in her community as well