- About D&E
We empower underserved communities with sustainable housing and transformative resources that unlock opportunity, foster dignity, and enable lasting economic participation.
Our Impact in Numbers
- Who We Serve
D&E proudly serves individuals and families across Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama — focusing on expanding fair access to housing, credit, and financial opportunity. Our programs reach homebuyers, renters, veterans, seniors, and young adults seeking stability, knowledge, and a path toward lasting success.
- Our Leadership
Carrie T. Harris
Founder, President & CEO
Carrie T. Harris is a nationally recognized leader in economic empowerment with more than four decades of experience in banking, training, and community development. After rising to Vice President and Corporate Outreach Director at SouthTrust Corporation, she founded D&E in 2000 to create pathways of opportunity for families and communities.
Under her leadership, D&E has grown across Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi as a HUD-approved agency and Freddie Mac Help Center network. Her signature programs — including Right Start Checking and Right Start Mortgage — have restored financial access to thousands once excluded from traditional banking and sustainable housing. Featured in Essence Magazine’s “A Powerful Woman” series, Carrie continues to train nationally with NeighborWorks America and lead with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to helping people build better lives.
Patrice Duncan
Chief Operating Officer
With more than 30 years of experience in banking, financial education, and community development, Patrice Duncan serves as Chief Operating Officer of D&E, overseeing operations across multiple states including D&E’s work as a Freddie Mac Borrower Help Center. She began her career at SouthTrust Bank under the mentorship of D&E Founder Carrie Harris and joined D&E in 2002 to expand financial education and outreach programs that bring real change to families and communities.
Patrice is known for her dynamic leadership and deep commitment to service. Beyond her professional achievements, she gives back through faith-based and civic organizations that strengthen families, empower youth, and foster local economic growth—reflecting the values at the heart of D&E’s mission.
- Our Services
Where Opportunity Meets Empowerment
For more than 25 years, D&E has proven the power of what happens when opportunity meets empowerment. Through our programs, partnerships, and community outreach, we equip people with the tools, knowledge, and resources to create lasting change.
Affordable Housing
Rental Education & Counseling
Pre- and Post-Purchase Education & Counseling
Foreclosure Prevention
Credit Counseling & Credit Restoration
Financial Services & CRA Engagement
Strategic Partnerships with Local Institutions
Economic Development & Small Business Lending
Workforce Development & Leadership Training
Youth Empowerment, Senior Enrichment & Veteran Re-Entry
Teacher’s Certification through CLEARPATH: Power of Preparation
Notable Highlights
Milestones that reflect our impact and partnerships over the years.
National Recognition
Recognized nationally by leading banking trade organizations and Fortune 500 companies for community innovation and financial empowerment.
Featured in Federal Audit
Cited in SIGTARP’s 2017 audit of Georgia’s Hardest Hit Fund for guiding applicants and securing assistance for 22 homeowners previously denied—proving the power of community-based counseling.
Large-Scale Education Events
Facilitated Bank of America’s Mega Fest Homebuyer Readiness Seminars, reaching over 2,000 participants in a single weekend.
Disaster Recovery Partnership
D&E supported the Road Home Program—created after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita—to help Louisiana homeowners access recovery aid. They provided financial counseling and toolkits that guided Lower Ninth Ward families through property issues and long-term rebuilding.
Honored by Bank of America
Named Community Mortgage Champion in 2006 for outstanding commitment to housing counseling and outreach.
Program
Innovation
Created signature programs including the Community Homebuyer Education Program, RightStart™ Education Program, and Banking the Unbankable seminars.
National Collaboration
Selected by the NAACP in Mississippi to deliver homebuyer and financial fitness workshops—launching the Beyond the Disaster Is Your Destiny initiative.
Youth & Student Empowerment
Trained hundreds of college students and young adults in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and life skills.
- Our Trusted Partners
