Dayton Blake Patterson, also known as Dudus, was tragically killed on November 13th, 2020, from an accidental, self-inflicted gunshot. He was a loving 5-year-old boy and the youngest of 4 kids. Dudus had an unforgettable smile, one that could light up any room. When he died, everyone who knew him was heartbroken. Dudus' mother, Bianca, started the D Blake Center in April of 2021 as a way to honor Dudus's life. As she grieved her son, she recognized the need for a community dedicated to coming together and helping local grieving families heal.
“It was a devastating incident, and I was unaware that the gun was in my home. In the wake of this unimaginable loss, I needed something to help me cope and to keep going for the sake of my other children. Starting this organization was my way of preserving my sanity and channeling my grief into something positive. I wanted to help other grieving families in my community who are struggling, offering them support and understanding in their times of need,” shared Bianca.
Bianca, originally from Chicago, moved to Central Minnesota in ___ to provide a better life for her children and to be near family. Though the D Blake Center started as a side gig for Bianca, it quickly grew. “This started as something I did in my free time. However, due to the increasing needs and positive response from the community, the demands for the center's services have spiked. Now, it has transitioned from a part-time endeavor to a full-time commitment and has become my main job. The growth and impact of the center made it clear that dedicating more time and resources was necessary to continue supporting and uplifting our community effectively.”
“My organization is different from others because we serve both youth and families. Unlike many organizations that focus solely on either children or adults, we create an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome. Adults are encouraged to come and enjoy our recreational and educational activities and learn from them. This holistic approach fosters stronger family bonds and community connections, ensuring that everyone benefits from our programs and support.”
“We have collaborated with various organizations in our community, such as Too Much Talent, Promise Neighborhood, St. Cloud Morning Optimist Club, United Way of Central Minnesota, Community Angels, and Brenda’s Helping Hands. Together, we have organized numerous events and initiatives, including our Trunk or Treat, Family Funday, and personal hygiene workshops. We have also participated in different grant opportunities and hosted winter gear giveaways, personal hygiene kit giveaways, and several other events. These partnerships have been crucial in amplifying our impact and supporting the needs of our community.”
The community support and network have been “incredibly positive and enriching” for Bianca. “The community here is supportive and collaborative, with a strong sense of camaraderie. Each encounter with other organizations is an opportunity to learn and grow, as everyone is willing to share their insights and experiences. I particularly appreciate the openness and willingness to help one another, which fosters a nurturing environment for growth and innovation. This spirit of collaboration and mutual support is what makes being part of the Greater St. Cloud community so rewarding.”
“What excites me most about having the privilege to do this work is hearing the success stories from the families I serve and knowing I'm doing something positive in my community. Seeing the tangible impact of our work, whether it's a child thriving in school, a family feeling more connected, or someone finding the support they need during a tough time, is incredibly rewarding. These stories and experiences fuel my passion and commitment to continue making a difference.”
Though rewarding, funding for the D Blake Center is a continual challenge. “The competition for funding is intense, and navigating the complexities of grant applications and fundraising events requires significant time and effort. Despite these challenges, these experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance in pursuing our mission.”
The Greater St. Cloud and Central MN community plays a crucial role in contributing to, growing, encouraging, and supporting local organizations like the D Blake Center. “The collaborative spirit, willingness to share resources, and a strong network of community members create a nurturing environment for positive change and development. Community events, partnerships, and shared initiatives foster a sense of unity and collective purpose.”
There are several ways to support the D Blake Center:
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Volunteer: D Blake always welcomes volunteers to assist with our events, workshops, and daily operations. Your time and skills can make a significant difference.
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Donations: Financial contributions help the D Blake Center sustain and expand programs. Donations of goods, such as personal hygiene products and winter gear, are also greatly appreciated.
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Support and Patronage: Visiting their website, following us on social media, and spreading the word about their work can help increase reach and impact.
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Word of Mouth: Sharing the D Blake mission and programs with your network can help them connect with more people in need and potential supporters.
“For more information about our programs and how you can support us, please visit our website and follow us on Facebook. Your engagement and support will make a significant difference in our efforts to uplift and empower our community. Thank you for being a part of our journey!”
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