Dawnn Jaffier was a lifelong member of the West End House whose passion was improving the lives of young people across Boston. Before becoming an innocent victim of violence, Dawnn was a mentor and role model for hundreds of young people at the West End House and beyond. To honor Dawnn’s memory, West End House has established three events, which have become an annual tradition:
The Light of Dawnn Awards
To honor Dawnn, and all victims of senseless acts of violence, the Light of Dawnn Awards have been created to recognize individuals working in the non-profit sector who demonstrate the spirit that is Dawnn’s legacy – a compassion and unwavering commitment to serve those in need. Each year, three nonprofit professionals in Boston who work on the front lines and demonstrate what it means to expand opportunities for others, will be selected to receive a Light of Dawnn Award. Those selected will be recognized at a public event and receive a monetary award for their outstanding efforts. Thank you to the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network and the Highland Street Foundation for supporting this event.
RSVP FOR THE 2022 LIGHT OF DAWNN AWARDS
Below is a video that highlights Dawnn’s impact on her family, friends, colleagues and Boston community. Thank you to Comcast for producing the video.
Biggest Fun Ever
On August 21, 2015, West End House hosted this inaugural community celebration that paid tribute to Dawnn’s love of community with music, dancing, face painting and more. The inaugural event featured remarks by the Jaffier family, Representative Kevin Honan, and Governor Charlie Baker, who shared words of support and helped kick off the festivities including a block party featuring food, games, face painting, mask making, music, and an alumni basketball tournament in Ringer Park. Many thanks to all who attended the event and honored Dawnn’s memory.
Media coverage of the Biggest Fun Ever can be found here:
WCVB
WFXT
“Dawnn for Peace” Boston Marathon Team
Since April 2016, West End House has been part of the John Hancock Marathon Non-Profit Program, with bibs awarded in memory of Dawnn Jaffier. Dawnn’s mother Althea is a champion of this initiative and was a long-tenured employee at John Hancock Financial Services. Each year, our team raises significant funds for West End House.
