Dispatches from Fort Greene-Clinton Hill

Times are tough. And for many, the American Dream of our parents' and grandparents' generation has never felt more out of reach.

And for others, that Dream has always been, as Langston Hughes once wrote, one that sags "like a heavy load."

Every day, the national media is full of stories about how families, businesses and neighborhoods are faring in these trying times. A debate over unemployment, debt, government, private enterprise and the have all touched on fundamental ways in which Brooklynites see themselves and their communities. 

At Patch, we're going to explore that conversation so we can better understand how Fort Greene and Clinton Hill residents are adjusting to the challenges facing them. 

In these troubling times, there are college graduates returning home because they can't find jobs; senior citizens bringing on boarders to help pay the bills; there are residents like Bryan Procope, who after two years and hundreds of resumes sent, still has not reclaimed even a small part of the life he once had before the worldwide economic crisis began.

"Dispatches" will be built upon those stories of perserverance, endurance and hard work during tough times. 

And, of course, we want your help: Tell us what issues and what stories in Fort Greene-Clinton Hill go to the heart of your American Dream.