We’re thrilled to announce the return of Dumas Wesley’s 2nd Annual Telethon on Wednesday, August 20^th, proudly presented by our partners at WKRG-TV and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. All proceeds support essential programs for underserved youth, seniors, and families facing homelessness.

All donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $35,000, thanks to the generosity of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians!

We encourage supporters to make their gifts during the live Telethon on August 20 to be part of the excitement and have their donation matched in real time. Want to give early? No problem! Online donations made on or before August 20 will still be included in the $35,000 matching challenge.

Ways to Give:

Call: 251.479.0649 to donate

Text: DONATE to 866-996-4042

Mail: Dumas Wesley Telethon 126 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607

To ensure your mailed donation counts toward the match, please be sure it’s postmarked by August 20 and note "Telethon" with your gift.

Summertime is the Perfect Time at Dumas Wesley!

"My husband and I enjoy coming to Dumas Wesley. Without the SAIL program, we would not be able to leave our house because neither of us can drive. Dumas Wesley cares for our well-being. They provide transportation to and from the Center, to the grocery store, and to the bank. I love field trip days. Recently, we went to the movies. I haven’t been to a movie in over 50 years! The screen is bigger, the seats are more comfortable, and the popcorn was delicious! I had such a good time. I love this program because I leave each day feeling fulfilled. I’m a happier person because of the SAIL program!" 

---Joan James, SAIL Program participant

"I had a really nice time spending my summer at Dumas Wesley. Two of my favorite field trips were going to the pool and the Pelican’s Nest Science Lab. The pool was like a mini water park. We went several times this summer, and it felt so good to cool off from the heat. The Pelican’s Nest was also a lot of fun. We spent all day learning about the Mobile Bay’s brackish water and the plants and animals that live in the Bay. We also learned about two different species of pelicans and got to see them in their natural habitat. I loved wading in the water and dredging with a net. We even found two crabs. I can’t believe I go back to school soon. My summer went by so fast. Thank you, Mom, for allowing me to come to Dumas Wesley."

---Isabelle, Summer Recreation participant

"This was my first time attending an overnight camp, and I loved it! I experienced a lot of firsts at Camp Blue Lake. It was my first time sleeping in a cabin in the woods. The boys and I stayed together in one cabin, and we laughed until we fell asleep. It was also my first time shooting a bow and arrow, playing gaga ball, paddle boarding and canoeing in a lake, and having a glow party while swimming in a pool at night. I had so much fun! I didn’t want to go home. If I could, I would stay at camp all summer long. Thank you for my first trip to Camp Blue Lake."

---Mario, Camp Blue Lake participant

As the school year approaches, 44 school-age children residing in transitional housing at the Sybil Smith Family Village and the Baldwin Family Village are ready to begin the academic year with the resources and support they need. Thanks to the generosity of our community partners, these children have received essential school supplies and uniforms to ensure that they are well-equipped for the year ahead.

A Baldwin Family Village mother shared her gratitude: "Receiving school supplies and gift cards to purchase clothing for school was such a stress relief for my family. I was worried about how I was going to afford everything my kids needed for school. Watching my kids pick out new outfits and shoes was an emotional moment for us all. We are thankful to those who made this possible. We are excited and ready for school to start! Thank you."

During the 2024-2025 school year, 3,971 children were identified as homeless in the Mobile County Public School System, while 278 children faced homelessness in The Baldwin County Public School System.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the following partners who have made the back-to-school season possible: Baldwin County Public School System, Mobile County Public School System, The Infirmary Federal Credit Union, Gillette Muller, Sheila Mickler, Shelli Doremus, Jan Pringle, Callie Davis, Reliant Small Group - Jubilee Baptist Church, Fairhope United Methodist Church, City Hope Church, Peace Community Church, and the Fairhope Police Department. 

We thank our departing board members for their service and welcome our new leadership to the team. Click here to learn more about Dumas Wesley's Board of Directors.

"It has been a joy to serve on Dumas Wesley's Board of Directors. The exceptional staff are led by Executive Director Kate Carver, who leads by example and is a positive spirit—it is contagious! The Dumas Wesley philosophy is a hand-up, not a hand-out. Therefore, the participants have an active role in their success. I am blessed to have been a small voice in their long-running success story. Thank you for the opportunity."

---Bradley Forster, Outgoing President, Dumas Wesley Board of Directors

"When I consider the impact of all that happens here--the lives that are transformed by the daily disciplines of welcome, witness, justice and compassion--I am in awe! As both catalyst and cathedral for love in action, this Center reflects the power of genuine community at its best.  

While the roots run deep, it is the enduring outreach of this mission, shown through the Spirit of present fruit, that continues to nourish and inspire. How grateful I am to be one of the many branches on this outstanding vine!  

For anyone looking to learn what it means to love your neighbor in the city of Mobile, I encourage you to come and see!"

---Rev. Darren McClellan, Incoming President, Dumas Wesley Board of Directors

"My late father, Deputy Chief Alexander G. Trenier, of the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department, was a long-time volunteer and advocate for Dumas Wesley. Before his passing, he was invited to join Dumas Wesley's Board of Directors. I was honored when I was asked to serve in his place on the board, though I felt like I had big shoes to fill. I could literally feel my dad’s presence, guiding me to accept the position. I am so excited to be able to make a positive impact in my community through Dumas Wesley."

---Captain John Michael Trenier, Fire Service Captain, Mobile Fire-Rescue, Dumas Wesley Board Member

Last month, the Sybil Smith Family Village had the honor of welcoming members of the Sybil Smith Foundation. Since the Village opened its doors in 1999, the Foundation's commitment and support have helped provide safe shelter to 2,814 women and children in our care. Pictured L-R: Tsana Demmas Barter, Massey Demmas, Raine Bedsole (holding a portrait of Sybil H. Smith, beloved grandmother and namesake of the Village).

We are pleased to introduce the newest member of the Dumas Wesley team, Chaplain Linda Smith. Already, Linda is making a meaningful impact by facilitating discussion groups with seniors, conducting life skills classes for residents in shelter, and offering individual support for clients in need. 

“I hope to be a source of encouragement for the participants at Dumas Wesley," said Smith. "Growing up, I didn’t have a lot of things. As an adopted child, I always felt like I was searching for something or someone. I too encountered my fair share of struggles, which made me into an empathetic person who loves to help others. This past month, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know everyone at Dumas Wesley. I listen not just with my ears, but with my heart.”

Cammie Wayne, owner of Cammie's s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe and the newest member of Dumas Wesley's Board of Directors, surprised children in the summer program with ice cream sundaes. Hendrix, a participant in the program, couldn't contain his excitement, saying, "I LOVE ice cream! This made my day!"

"I am honored to serve on the board at Dumas Wesley," said Wayne. "There have been many times in my life when I needed help, and I always had someone there for me. I want to be that someone for others. I look forward to serving and spreading love and encouragement to others."