Giving Back

This page is deeply personal to me. I believe each of us is given unique talents, and it is our responsibility to use those gifts in service to others. As the saying goes, “Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.” Those words have guided me for many years.

Volunteering my time to provide haircuts at local homeless shelters has been one of the most humbling and meaningful experiences of my career. Every time I step into that space, I am reminded of the countless blessings in my own life — both big and small. It has also reinforced something I learned long ago: we are never in a position to judge another person’s story. We rarely know the full journey someone has walked, and assumptions are almost always incomplete. Compassion begins when we choose to listen.

For nearly a decade, I also volunteered in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Swedish Hospital. Supporting families and children during some of their most vulnerable moments profoundly shaped my perspective. That experience deepened my gratitude, strengthened my empathy, and reminded me daily of the resilience of the human spirit. Including mine…

In addition, I serve as a counselor on a crisis text line. This work keeps me grounded in what truly matters and reminds me that tomorrow brings a new beginning. We all have difficult days; sometimes what makes the difference is simply knowing someone is there to listen. If I can help even one person feel seen, heard, and reminded that they are enough, then I consider that a meaningful day.

Serving others has continually shown me that giving back is never one-sided. When we step outside ourselves and extend compassion, we often receive far more in return.

With gratitude,
Dawn 💛