Dumas, Arkansas has led the way combating food-insecurity and more in SEARK during the past two years of the pandemic. During COVID 19— (and its variants), the work has not ceased. Each month, ‘The Faith-First Responders’ (aka Dumas REDI (Rural Economic Development Innovation) crew have been mentoring, producing events, distributing food, etc. (over $750,000 to date). But that’s not all. In the last several months, a Health and Wellness fair that includes a visit with a Virologist, COVID testing by a medial health agency, plus new antiviral technology to protect individuals from the spread of the virus was added to the tour in multiple sites across the state.
On Thursday December 16, leaders from across the state will converge in Dumas for a day being celebrated as “Arkansas is REDI.” REDI, is Rural Economic Development Innovation from the USDA. The special program with the keynote speakers is from 12noon—1pm. After the noon program, the food and toys will be distributed. The program will also recognize donors for this year. Persons desiring to get the food and toys should aim to be on site for the 12noon program to get their tickets to pick up food based on first-come, first served.
Dr. Lane Rolling of Las Vegas grew up in rural Arkansas. He’s discussion the state of the variants and how to navigate during the coming year. He’s also telling how a poor black boy became a medical doctor… he’s touring the nation, saving lives as a virologist fighting covid. His credentials have been listed in earlier editions of the Clarion and are most numerous and impressive. Pastor Charles Johnson of New Orleans, specialist in community organizing and food service is a short list of his talents will also be sharing at the rally and strategic planning.
Mayor Julian Lott, Camden, Arkansas is President of the Black Mayor’s Association and has a story to tell about transforming people from poverty and violence to productivity and victory. Lott is the current Mayor of the City of Camden, AR; a Bishop/Pastor and a Mentor/Teacher born and raised in Grenada, MS. Mayor Lott soundly won the Independent nomination on November 6, 2018. He is serving his first four-year term as the First African American Mayor Elected by popular vote in Camden, AR. Since taking office, Mayor Lott is bringing performance-driven approach to the job, creating more responsive streamline approach and efficient delivery of city services while spiral up financial future.
“Not often does the head of the Arkansas Black Mayors Association come to Dumas. Not often is he or she a bishop/pastor/mayor. This combination of a leader is rare, but so relevant when you can see a bishop/pastor/mayor at work saving lives and revitalizing communities. Not only is Mayor Lott leading the city of Camden, but his role as the President of the Arkansas Black Mayors Association is a major work. There are 58 cities in Arkansas with black mayors which represent over 500,000 persons across the state. That’s a lot of people who represent much value in human capital, decision making and life-changing initiatives across the state. We are blessed to have him and Virologist, Dr. Lane Rolling and others heading to Dumas for our year-end rally. This moves our college and institutional work to another strong demonstration of our programs and good works, stated Rev. Arthur L. Hunt, Jr., convener of the year-end event.
Distribution over $750,000 in food and responsible for a $1,000,000 (one-million dollar) operation, all without a budget, but not without a whole lot of faith and volunteerism.
Dumas REDI leaders, The College of Aspiring Artists, ASC Property Management, THE LEGACY CENTER in West Dumas and new partners are seeking support from businesses and community foundations to join the efforts for 2022 by attending this end of the year forum and distribution.
After the noon program the food and toys will be distributed. Your donation helps us with our operations which total over $100,000 per year and helps us with our goal of 1.5 million dollars to include scholarships for students and teachers that move us into the next phase of development for our campus, THE LEGACY CENTER in West Dumas. The youth are watching and waiting on us. Let’s make this happen for all of them. We welcome people from across the city and county and state as we present a day of health, wellness, education and some great food items along with toys for the kids.
Donations, volunteers are needed. Please come out and bring your support. Donations can also be sent to P.O. Box 307, or at ASC Property Management at 710 Meador Drive. Contact us at 870.501.0356, 870.866.6666 or 501.683.8555. Please make payable to The Legacy Center in West Dumas: Email: allofdumasunited@gmail.com
