Creating Rooms of Hope: Adalyia Parker’s Mission with the 29.11 Project

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Creating Rooms of Hope:

Adalyia Parker's Mission with The 29:11 Project

By April Carter, Chief Program Officer, Tennessee Nonprofit Network
Photography by Adalyia Parker

In the heart of Memphis, a small nonprofit is making a big impact on families transitioning out of homelessness. The 29:11 Project, named after the comforting biblical verse Jeremiah 29:11, is not just about providing physical spaces but restoring hope and dignity to children through personalized "Rooms of Hope." I had the privilege of speaking with Adalyia Parker, the passionate Executive Director behind this initiative, to delve into her journey and the meaningful work of her organization.

The 29:11 Project began in 2020 as a heartfelt response to a community need. Adalyia, leveraging her background in corporate sales and community involvement, recognized the gap in support for families leaving shelters or foster care. "I realized that families needed more than just a place to stay; they needed a home," she shared. This realization sparked her initiative, initially fueled by social media outreach and grassroots donations.

Adalyia's transition from corporate America to nonprofit leadership wasn't without its challenges. "I didn't have all the answers," she admitted. "But I learned that progress comes from taking small steps every day." This humble approach has guided The 29:11 Project's growth, focusing on building trusting relationships with partner organizations like the Dorothy Day House and Youth Villages to identify families in need of support.

Central to the Project's mission is the creation of Rooms of Hope, where Adalyia and her team transform empty spaces into personalized sanctuaries for children. "It's not just about furnishing a room; it's about empowering children to envision a brighter future," Adalyia emphasized. Each room is meticulously designed with input from the parents and children themselves, ensuring it reflects their personalities and aspirations.

The impact of these rooms goes beyond aesthetics. Adalyia shared touching stories of children overcoming fears and finding solace in their new spaces. "One mom told me her son started sleeping in his bed again after years of fear after seeing his new personally furnished room," she recounted. Such moments highlight the Project's broader goal: to strengthen family bonds and empower children to rewrite their narratives.

Beyond individual transformations, Adalyia is pioneering community engagement initiatives like Hope Fest, leveraging her extensive network in the apartment industry to mobilize support. "Giving back isn't just about charity; it's about fostering a culture of compassion," she explained. These efforts aim not only to provide material support but also to instill a sense of community responsibility among donors and volunteers.

Adalyia's personal journey and commitment to service shine through her work with The 29:11 Project. A graduate of the University of Memphis and a fitness enthusiast who's lost 75 pounds, she embodies resilience and a deep-rooted desire to effect positive change. Her story resonates with a belief that transforming communities starts with empowering individuals—especially children—to believe in their potential.

As our conversation concluded, Adalyia expressed her vision for the future—a future where every child experiences the stability and hope of a home. "We're just getting started," she smiled, hinting at plans for expansion and deeper community partnerships. Her optimism and determination leave no doubt that The 29:11 Project will continue to be a pillar of hope for Memphis families in need. Her dedication reminds us that, even in challenging times, there is always "Room for Hope.”

To learn more about The 29:11 Project or to become a Room for Hope monthly donor of $29.11, visit the2911project.org.

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