Our Mission

Founded on May 18, 2020 as a response to the many needs of youth and families in Kent County, MINARY’S DREAM ALLIANCE exists to provide opportunities for mentoring, tutoring, vocational training, and college readiness. MDA offers families and youth a safe, welcoming environment where they feel comfortable, not intimidated, and accepted for who they are.  

The mission of MINARY’S DREAM ALLIANCE is to transform the lives of youth, families, and communities through education, resource development, and community engagement. MDA works to improve the lives of families and youth in the Mid-Shore region, particularly those families that are disadvantaged and underserved by existing institutions and organizations, and to promote equity, community, and improved educational and homelife outcomes.

Our History

MINARY’S DREAM ALLIANCE was founded by Doncella Wilson. The unique name “MINARY” is to pay homage to the many women who worked along Kent Narrows and the Chesapeake Bay as part of the seafood processing industry and, specifically, Doncella’s grandmothers, Minnie and Mary. These women worked hard and provided a much-needed increase in food supply and capital for the region. Nonetheless, they did not receive reasonable compensation nor accommodations for these efforts. They often lived in one-room, derelict “shanties” with limited indoor plumbing. What these women demonstrated was resiliency, strength, and dedication to providing for their families. The dream is now to honor their hard work by continuing a compassionate legacy of community advocacy.

Paul Tue, co-founder of MINARY’S DREAM ALLIANCE, provided the inspiration, energy, and commitment for the Kent County Youth and Elderly Food Program, created in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. When he and Doncella walked into the Frank M. Jarman American Legion, Post 36 building for the first time, they immediately recognized the potential that this facility offered.

Our Capital Campaign

We recognize the value “a sense of place” will play in the achievement of our goals. With a matching grant from an Angel Donor, and generous donations from supporters near and far, we were able to purchase our home at 9155 American Legion Road outright in February 2022. We are grateful for the abaility to provide a safe space and create a sense of ownership among the individuals we serve as well as their families and the community at large.

The Dream Unfolds

Minary’s Dream Alliance continues to offer families and youth a safe, welcoming environment where they feel comfortable, not intimidated, and accepted for who they are. Keys to the success of MDA are the founders, Doncella Wilson and Paul Tue. These dedicated community advocates have worked on the Mid-Shore for 15 years developing relationships and building trust within the community that is being targeted. In populations that have long been underserved by our society, there is a justified distrust of most public institutions. Because of their tireless work and devotion, Doncella and Paul are trusted by the community. Under this leadership, MDA offers programming that meets community needs at every level: 
  • Minary’s Dream Academy
  • Feed the Elderly Program
  • Club FEAR (Adolescent Clubhouse)
  • CommUnity Mentoring Program 
… and more!  MDA is poised to continue a compassionate legacy of community service and advocacy.

How You Can Support

Please consider partnering with us through a financial contribution. Online donations may be completed securely via the Donate button below. To make a gift via stock transfer, please contact Valliant Wealth Strategies at (410) 810-0800. 
Checks may be mailed to Minary’s Dream Alliance, Inc. at 9155 American Legion Road, Chestertown, MD 21620.
 

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 You can contribute to our Mid-Shore Gives 2024 campaign by clicking the GREEN button below!
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