Mentoring Through Music

Dumas Wesley Community Center's Board President, Rev. Darren McClellan, has introduced a new drumming class for school-age children in the Center’s After School Achievement Program. This initiative gives students a hands-on way to explore music, collaborate with others, and build confidence and creativity.

"One of my favorite questions for building community is this: What is one thing you know how to do well enough to teach someone else?" said McClellan. "For me, the answer to that question is drumming. I am a 'recreational drummer.' I am no expert, but I have found joy in this hobby for 38 years. My purpose is to share joy, show mercy, and pass on what I have learned. It's that simple. I'm grateful for the opportunity to create and build these mentoring relationships. We can nurture musicianship, character, and confidence—or simply have some fun! I believe that the power of music is transcendent and can build bridges in ways that nothing else can. In our frenetic culture, which often undervalues the arts and isolates the vulnerable, this program offers an opportunity to invest in a sense of harmony for the next generation."

For more information, or to get involved, contact Director Allie Smalling, at asmalling@dumaswesley.org.

Austal Golf Tournament Benefits Local Non-Profits

The Dumas Wesley Community Center was recently named a beneficiary of the Austal USA 2026 Charity Golf Invitational, held on March 13, 2026. Proceeds from the event will support Dumas Wesley’s transitional housing programs, the Sybil Smith Family Village and the Baldwin Family Village. The programs provide safe housing and wrap-around services for women and children experiencing homelessness in Mobile and Baldwin Counties.

"At Austal USA, we believe that giving back to our community is not just a responsibility, but a privilege," said Gene Miller, Interim President, at Austal USA. "Supporting organizations like the Dumas Wesley Community Center has been a part of our company’s tradition for many years, and we are proud of our long history of partnership with them. Through our annual Charity Golf Invitational, we are able to make a meaningful impact right here at home. This year’s event raised $240,000 to share with local charities, including Dumas Wesley, helping to strengthen the fabric of our community and support those who need it most."

Employee Spotlight: Kenisha Parrish

This month, we recognize Assistant Director of Youth and Senior Services, Kenisha Parrish, whose four years of service at Dumas Wesley have been defined by thoughtful and meaningful programming for children and seniors alike.

"I truly enjoy my work at Dumas Wesley," said Parrish. "I strive to make everyone’s day a bit brighter. I love using my imagination to plan engaging activities for our participants, and my goal is for everyone to leave smiling or laughing!

In my free time, I cherish moments with family and friends—especially my son. I also enjoy cooking, puzzles, board games, bird watching, and staying active."

Southeast Toyota Finance Marks Milestone with a Donation to Dumas Wesley

Southeast Toyota Finance recently celebrated 45 years of service with a charitable donation to the Dumas Wesley Community Center. The contribution will strengthen the Center’s signature programs, benefiting local youth, underserved seniors, and women and children experiencing homelessness. Southeast Toyota Finance is a subsidiary of JM Family Enterprises, Inc.

"For 45 years, our mission has been simple: help customers get behind the wheel and support our dealer partners with financing solutions," said Casey Gunnell Jr., President of Southeast Toyota Finance. "This anniversary is a testament to our associates, our community, and the dealers and customers who have placed their trust in SET Finance for so many years."

Baldwin Family Village Hosts Lunch and Learn

On March 24th, Baldwin Family Village hosted a Lunch and Learn for Baldwin County Board of Education social workers. Attendees toured the facility and learned about supportive services for women and children experiencing homelessness. During the 2024-2025 school year, 278 children in the district were identified as homeless.

"Baldwin County Public Schools' work with community partners is essential to ensuring students have the support they need to be successful," said Sherry Rainbolt, Baldwin County Public Schools Prevention and Support Supervisor. "The Baldwin Family Village's passion for serving others truly stood out. It was clear how much they care about the families they serve, and it reinforced the importance of these partnerships. We are so grateful to work alongside those who share our commitment to students and families, and we look forward to continuing this partnership to support our community."

General Secretary and CEO of United Women in Faith Tours the Dumas Wesley Community Center

On March 30, the Dumas Wesley Community Center welcomed Sally Vonner, General Secretary and CEO of United Women in Faith—a national organization of the United Methodist Church—along with Barbara Carroll, President of the Mobile District. During the visit, they saw firsthand the impact of the Center’s programs and services.

Founded in 1903 by a group of Methodist women in Mobile, the Dumas Wesley Community Center began by providing childcare to disadvantaged families working in the cotton mills of Crichton, Alabama. More than a century later, the United Women in Faith continues to support the Center’s mission, which now includes over a dozen programs and services for local youth, seniors, low-income families, and women and children experiencing homelessness.

Registration Open for Summer Recreation Program

Registration is now open for Dumas Wesley's Summer Recreation Program. For more than 50 years, the summer program has provided school-age children with a comprehensive and enriching summer experience. Activities include: educational field trips, academic enrichment, STEAM workshops, swimming, and a five-day excursion to Camp Blue Lake.

Click here to learn more about the Summer Recreation Program.