Page 19 - Giving Back Guide - 2022

GIVING BACK
Dynamic Enrichment Network
story by Cherie Ward photos courtesy of the DEN
Imagine a place where art, science, creative thinking, and technology are all under one roof. Sounds amazing, right?
Well, that’s one of the many visions of Alina Goldin, the executive director at the DEN or Dynamic Enrichment Network in Gulfport.
“Multiple activities, one roof,” Goldin said. “In addition to youth programming, the DEN will offer multiple enrichment opportunities for special needs children, adults, and senior citizens.”
The mission of the volunteer-based, nonprofit organization is to enrich the community in a collaborative space for the betterment of mind and body. The building consists of a gym, an auditorium, and six classrooms.
The DEN is in its first development
phase and is moving quickly to become an organization committed
to encouraging students of all ages to continuously create and learn. Since opening its doors on September 12, the DEN has offered tumbling classes with Cheer Zone Athletics, martial arts with Pruitt’s Martial Arts, and dance with Kelli’s Steps and Niall O’Leary School of Irish Dance as well as nutrition courses with the Mississippi State Extension Services, and Women’s Self Defense courses.
“The programs brought to the DEN will be ever-changing, depending on
the needs of our community,” she said, adding the name is a reflection of what the organization thrives to provide for the Gulf Coast.
“Dynamic is characterized by constant change, activity, or progress,” says Goldin. “Enrichment means the action of improving or enhancing the quality or value of something. Network is a group of people who exchange information, contacts, and experiences. Here at the DEN, people of all ages can gather, share ideas and learn from one another.”
Part of relationship building for the DEN will be hosting fundraisers. “The DEN does not have the usual annual fundraisers where you have to buy a gown or get a hotel room,” she said. “Our fundraisers will be monthly events where entertainers or chefs will travel
to Gulfport and we will conduct special events. We have already had two events in the short time we have been open.”
The DEN: 55 51st St., Gulfport | 228.265.9818 | www.thedenms.com
BACOT/MCCARTY FOUNDATION
Together We Are Making a Difference
WWW.BACOTMCCARTY.ORG
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net December 2022 - Giving Back Guide | 19