When Amenah Al Dulaimi arrived in the U.S. from Iraq in 2018, she faced the daunting task of starting over with limited English, no transportation, and a young daughter struggling with the trauma of displacement. Enrolling her daughter in the Early Head Start program, she found a community that prioritized both education and emotional well-being. Encouraged to volunteer, Amenah biked six miles daily to help in the classroom, reading and singing with dual-language students.
Her dedication led her to Wayne Metro’s Leap to Teach program, where she studied English and child development with determination and the guidance of a supportive coach. Today, she is Wayne Metro’s first Early Head Start teacher to earn HighScope certification, and now serves as a lead teacher, mentor, and advocate for collective success. Her journey from parent to educator is a powerful example of what happens when a program invests in people not just as clients, but as future leaders.
SHARON HUMES
Financial Empowerment Center Client & Homeowner
Sharon's Story
At 78 years old, Ms. Sharon Humes reached out to Wayne Metro for help
to negotiate a due date change with her landlord, which was not possible and Sharon initially closed her case. Then, she learned about our Home Purchase program. She enrolled and completed the Homebuyer Education Workshop. Working closely with Wayne Metro, she improved her credit, got pre-approved for a mortgage, and secured a $25,000 Detroit Down Payment Assistance grant.
In December 2024, Sharon closed on her new home, with a monthly mortgage lower than her former rent, and her first mortgage payment to be made in advance to avoid future late fees. Priscilla Hampton, Sharon’s case manager, said “It was my pleasure working with her, but she did the work that was needed to be done and now she is a new homeowner.” Thanks to her determination and the support of Wayne Metro, Ms. Humes is now a proud homeowner.
