fOUNDING DAY OPEN HOUSES

Wednesday, May 6th

For the first time, all three Dorothy Day House homes will be open for tours.
Stop by, explore the spaces where families rebuild their lives, and celebrate nearly 20 years of our mission.

Event Details

Time: 7:00 AM- 6 PM
Locations: All three Dorothy Day House homes
Cost: Free. Everyone is welcome.

👉 Visit one home or all three—each offers a unique perspective on our work.

Stop in and grab a slice of cake at any home as we celebrate 20 years of Dorothy Day House. 💛

In May 2006, we opened Dorothy’s House—our first home.
The foundation. The beginning. The first.

The one we weren’t quite prepared for—but opened anyway, with faith.

That same home has carried our mission forward for two decades. It has welcomed families in crisis, witnessed resilience, and held countless new beginnings. While it may show signs of age, it remains a testament to what love, faith, and community can build—and sustain.

From that first “yes,” we’ve grown:

  • Dorothy’s House (2006) — Where it all began

  • Loretta’s House (2018) — A legacy of strength and resilience

  • Joseph’s House (2020) — A space for new beginnings

Today, these three homes allow us to expand our reach while staying rooted in the same mission:
keeping families together as they rebuild their lives.

Want to Support Families?

Your presence is the most meaningful thing.

If you’d like to do more, you’re welcome to:

  • Bring a household item (paper goods, pantry items, toiletries)

  • Gently used children’s school uniforms and supplies

  • Shop our wishlist

  • Email apalmer@dorothydaymemphis.org for more ideas on how to give back in honor of our founding.

 

Plan Your Visit

 

When should I come?

Whenever it’s most convenient for you between 7AM- 6PM

How long does it take?

Stay for as little or as long as you’d like!

Do I need to RSVP?

No

Can I visit all three homes?

Yes—visit one, two, or all three

 

What to Expect

 
  • Casual, come-as-you-are environment

  • Guided tours with staff available

  • Explore at your own pace or ask questions

  • Learn how families move from crisis to stability

  • Cake and coffee refreshments available

 

Who Should Attend

 

Everyone is welcome.

  • First-time visitors

  • Community members

  • Supporters and volunteers

  • Friends and families

👉 Feel free to bring a friend.

A Note on Respect

Tours are designed to honor the dignity and privacy of the families we serve.
Thank you for helping us create a respectful and welcoming environment.

Locations

  • Dorothy's House

    📍 1429 Poplar Ave
    🚗 Parking: There is parking behind Dorothy’s House, adjacent to the Kroger gas station.

  • Loretta's House

    📍 1178 Peabody Ave
    🚗 Parking: There is limited parking behind Loretta’s House. You may also park across the street at Joseph’s House.

  • Joseph's House

    📍 1161 Peabody Ave
    🚗 Parking: This house shares a parking lot with St. John’s United Methodist Church. Park Near the house.