Carrying the Torch through Memphis: DeNeuville Learning Center for Women

Tell us about DeNeuville Learning Center for Women. Why is the work you do important?

DLC serves adult women and their children through classroom instruction and support services including High School Equivalency, English as a Second Language, Citizenship Test Preparation, Computer Basics, and skills-based classes. Childcare is the most common barrier for adult women seeking education, so DLC also provides onsite childcare for the children of women attending classes at our Center.

Our work is important because over 70% of families living in poverty are headed by single mothers. If we wish to address the societal problems stemming from poverty, we must provide better opportunities for mothers and women. Children of educated women are less likely to live in poverty as adults, less likely to become incarcerated or get involved in the criminal system, and more likely to graduate high school and seek post-secondary education. When a mother improves her education level, regardless of what that level is, her children’s reading and writing scores significantly improve. It’s simple: if a mother can read to her kids, if she is able to help with homework, if she is able to communicate in the same language as her children’s school, she is more equipped to build a foundation of academic success for her children.

Why is DLC located in Memphis?

Memphis is a beautiful city with affordable living and a vibrant cultural background. Memphis is also plagued by poverty and systemic challenges. We know that education is vital to providing better trajectories and outcomes for families living in poverty. DLC is here to continue to make Memphis a great place to live and to raise families by serving women and mothers in need of educational support.
 

How can Memphians support your work?

We have a variety of volunteer roles including teaching, tutoring, mentorships, administrative help, and leadership opportunities. We have volunteer needs for our annual fundraising events. We also have opportunities for group projects for team building and one-time service.

We hold an annual gala each spring. Our fall golf tournament will be held on Friday, September 27 at the Links at Galloway. Golf foursomes and sponsorship opportunities are available by emailing [email protected]

If people are unable to attend an event and would still like to contribute, online donations are always appreciated.

What are DLC's dreams and goals for the short-term and long-term?

Last year DLC celebrated its milestone 25th anniversary, having served over 5,000 women and their children from over 56 different countries. Our goal is to ensure financial sustainability and resources to continue serving thousands of women and children over the next 25 years and beyond. We hope to grow our program to include more childcare space thereby alleviating the current waitlist for mothers. We will be adding and improving technology within the Center as well as incorporating enhancements to the existing program to better prepare our graduates for success in the workforce.
 

Finally, tell us a little about you: How did you get involved with DLC? 

I have served as the Executive Director for DLC since moving to Memphis from Arkansas in January 2013. It has been my privilege to lead this mission, along with our dedicated team and Board of Directors, for the past 11 years. During this time, I have seen countless women and mothers transition themselves and their families out of difficult circumstances. I have gained so much more wisdom from our students than I could ever provide them. I have been awed by the dedication of our teachers and commitment of our volunteers. I have been overwhelmed with gratitude by the generosity of our donors. My professional growth during my time with DLC is only overshadowed by the growth I get to experience personally.