Make a difference in your own community. GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, this idea has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.

People can show their generosity in a variety of ways during GivingTuesday⁠⁠—whether it’s helping a neighbor, advocating for an issue, sharing a skill, or giving to causes, everyone has something to give, and every act of generosity counts. Click below to support our efforts.

At Dover Adult Learning Center of Strafford County, lives are transformed through education. Adults and youth find new opportunities to learn, build self-confidence and become economically self-sufficient.  They leave better prepared for work, college & training, and improve their skills as family members & citizens. 

1960s   Dover’s first Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes began at Dover High School in the evening and at the First Parish Church during the day.

1970s   Helen Phipps appointed as director. Dover Adult Learning Center incorporated as a private non-profit organization. First adult high school diplomas granted. The former Advent Christian Church is purchased by the city with federal funds and turned over to the center for a dollar. Honored with an award from the Secretary of Education.

1980s   First Certified Nursing Assistant classes added. Debbie Tasker appointed as executive director. First GED class at Strafford County Jail. The U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes the ABE program as the outstanding adult education program in Region One and one of six outstanding programs in the nation, commends DALC for “Excellence in Adult Education.”

1990s   ABE begins in Rochester; 246 graduates (the largest graduating class in county). DALC becomes “Dover Adult Learning Center, Serving Strafford County.” DALC joins the Dover Chamber of Commerce. 25th Anniversary! ABE program a finalist for national award from Secretary of Education.

2000s   Nellie Mae Foundation grant helps students transition to college. Jim Verschueren appointed executive director in 2000. Total of 335 GED graduate’s sets new record; computer lab created with funding from Verizon. 30th anniversary! Move to McConnell Center in 2007. Deanna Strand appointed executive director in 2009.

2010s   Come Help Us Grow! reaches its goal of $100,000. The Helen Phipps Heritage Society is established. DALC 40th anniversary celebrated. Andrew Aimesbury scholarship established. DALC completed a new strategic plan and developed a new logo.

2020s   COVID 19 pandemic initiated a pivot to entirely remote instruction. DALC lost three significant members of its community in 2020: Debbie Tasker, DALC director for 25 years; Irene Duffy, one of DALC’s founders; and Bev O’Brien, longtime ADP Counselor. Rochester site relocates to the Rochester Community Center. In 2022, DALC celebrates its 50th anniversary. In 2024, Art Ellison, champion of adult education, State Director for over 4 decades and NH state legislator, passed away.