Sponsored Content
Raise a glass for survivors: DAWN’s May It Forward marks 45 years of domestic violence advocacy
Published 4:36 pm Monday, April 20, 2026
Built by domestic violence survivors, for survivors: 45 years of shelter, advocacy and hope in South King County
In 1980, two domestic abuse survivors were inspired to form a network of safe homes to support women fleeing violence.
Today, DAWN – the Domestic Abuse Women’s Network has grown into a full-spectrum support organization that fielded more than 4,300 calls in 2025.
“We stand with survivors through every stage of their journey,” says Gina Finley, DAWN’s executive director. “From the first call to the moment they’re ready to rebuild – we’re here.”
DAWN’s shelter opened 1993, and last year served 141 survivors – a 40 percent increase over 2024. The average stay is 60 days, when residents can access on-site advocates, support groups and mental health services.
The shelter is also one of the few in the country that welcomes pets – a detail that matters more than it might seem.
A pet bundle from DAWN waiting to welcome a new survivor(s) and their pet to the DAWN community.
“Research consistently shows that survivors frequently delay leaving an abusive home to avoid abandoning their animals,” Finley says. “We’ve eliminated that barrier and many others to ensure our services can help as many people as possible.”
DAWN’s crisis line is open to all and its Domestic Violence Institute offers trauma-informed training to the community.
It’s also midway through shelter renovations designed around trauma-informed principles, including kitchenettes in every room, allowing independence and privacy, and a recently completed youth advocacy room, for the more than 60 percent of shelter residents under 18.
One of the newly renovated kitchenettes, designed to foster independence and privacy for survivors.
Supporting DAWN
“These vital improvements, along with our programs and services, are only possible because of the support of the King County community,” Finley says.
On May 2, DAWN hosts its second annual May It Forward Happy Hour at Renton Technical College from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. – and it promises to be an evening worth clearing your calendar for.
Enjoy live jazz from the Kareem Kandi World Orchestra, local wines donated by Tinte Cellars, appetizers, a powerful survivor story, and a live auction featuring travel packages, experiences and exclusive offerings, including seven nights in Kauai, plus airfare for two!
Tickets are on sale now at dawnrising.org/events/may-it-forward. Space is limited, so reserving early is encouraged.
For those feeling lucky, Golden Ticket raffle entries – just 100 available at $100 each – offer the chance to win any live auction package before bidding even begins.
Donations are welcome anytime online, in addition to donor-advised funds, workplace giving programs, sponsorships, planned giving and more.
Learn more at dawnrising.org and follow them on Facebook.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact DAWN’s advocacy and support line at 425-656-7867.