At The 1st 28 Foundation, we believe healing begins with the right tools and a supportive community.

The 1st 28 Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering survivors of sexual assault through tangible resources, personal development, and unwavering advocacy.

Founded by Dawn Dean, a survivor herself, The 1st 28 Foundation is driven by the belief that no matter what challenges we face, nothing can take our light.

Founder & Executive Director, The 1st 28 Foundation

Dawn Dean is a passionate advocate for survivors and the visionary behind The 1st 28 Foundation. With an MBA and a background in HR consulting, Dawn brings a wealth of professional expertise to the organization. But it’s her personal journey as a trauma survivor that truly fuels her mission.

During her recovery, Dawn discovered the transformative power of journaling. Yet, she noticed a critical gap—survivors were often encouraged to journal but rarely provided with the resources to do so. Determined to fill this gap, Dawn founded The 1st 28 Foundation to ensure survivors not only receive encouragement but also the tangible tools needed to begin their healing journey.

Dawn’s approach combines advocacy, program development, and lived experience to create sustainable solutions for survivors. Her guiding philosophy, “No matter what I go through, nothing will take my light.”, inspires every aspect of The 1st 28’s work.

In her downtime, Dawn enjoys playing woodwind instruments, attending live music events, and losing herself in a great book—creative outlets that echo her dedication to resilience and reflection.

Our Impact

Changing Lives, One Survivor at a Time

At The 1st 28 Foundation, our mission is not just about providing resources—it’s about transforming lives. Every journal distributed, every workshop held, and every connection made brings us closer to creating a world where survivors feel empowered to heal and thrive. Here’s how we plan to make an impact in our first year:

By the Numbers: Year 1 Goals

• 1,500 Journals Distributed: Partnering with hospitals, police crisis centers, and advocacy organizations to ensure survivors have access to this essential healing tool.

• 200 Workshop Participants: Hosting online and in-person workshops focused on healing strategies, personal growth, and career development.

• 90% Success Rate in Career Assistance: Empowering survivors through personalized coaching, resume building, and job readiness programs.

Building Community Connections

Our outreach campaigns aim to raise awareness about sexual assault and the importance of trauma recovery resources. By connecting survivors with local support networks, we’re fostering safe spaces for healing and growth.

The Ripple Effect

Our work goes beyond individual survivors. By educating communities, partnering with advocacy organizations, and raising public awareness, we’re building a culture of empathy and understanding that creates lasting change.

Our Vision for the Future:

We envision a world where every survivor, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the resources, support, and community needed to heal, grow, and reclaim their light. Healing is not a one-size-fits-all process, and we are committed to meeting survivors where they are, providing personalized and culturally sensitive solutions to help them move forward.

At The 1st 28 Foundation, we believe that lasting change starts with collaboration. By building strong partnerships with hospitals, advocacy organizations, and community groups, we aim to bridge the gaps in trauma recovery and ensure survivors receive the care they deserve. Through education, we empower survivors to not only heal but also regain their confidence, pursue their goals, and rebuild their lives with purpose.

Advocacy lies at the heart of our mission. We are dedicated to raising awareness about the unique challenges survivors face and advocating for systemic changes that improve access to resources and support. Our vision extends beyond individual healing; we aim to create a ripple effect that transforms communities, shifts societal perceptions, and fosters a culture of understanding and compassion.

As we look to the future, we are driven by the belief that no one should navigate the journey of recovery alone. Together, with the help of our supporters, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future where survivors everywhere are empowered to turn their pain into purpose and reclaim their light.

We Are Always In Need Of Help And Support - Join Us on This Journey

Together, we can make a difference. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, you can be a part of a movement that changes lives.