volunteer
volunteer
dawna's determination for the win
​
AFC client Dawna is originally from Denver. She moved out to the Pacific Northwest after graduating from high school with dreams of becoming an oceanographer. While that didn’t materialize, she worked to achieve her AA in Music at Highline Community College and Skagit Valley College.
​
Dawna enjoyed being in a band with some relatives, playing in different venues in the
Seattle area. After making a few recordings, it was a disappointment when a music
producer in Los Angeles was interested in only one member of the band.
​
Dawna moved to Anacortes and has lived here for more than 40 years. The early years were terrific as she lived in an affordable home, however as the rent increased, she found herself and her young sons homeless. Battling substance abuse and homelessness, Dawna and family lived with friends, in hideaway places in Anacortes, and in her car. Working hard at a fish cannery, as a housekeeper, and at McDonald’s, she just couldn’t get ahead. Today, as a Substitute Teacher at the ECEAP School here in Anacortes, Dawna’s calm demeanor and positive attitude are a great fit for guiding and encouraging pre-school children as they remind her of her own children and nieces and nephews when they were in Head Start.
​
Dawna isn’t always comfortable talking with others about her experiences, her needs, her hopes, and dreams. She does get a sparkle in her eyes as she thinks about what it’s going to be like to be on her own in her new home in LaConner. When asked what she’ll enjoy most, she says with relief and pride, “to go for a walk whenever I want and to be free in my own space.”
Dawna has struggled, but she has always stayed in the game of life to come out on top! She has been at AFC since July 2024 and worked through all the programs to chart a positive path forward. She gives encouraging words to those who might be
experiencing her same struggles: “Keep trying and don’t give up.”
​
​