The idea to start a non-profit has been something I considered for many years. Living in a rust-belt community there is so much need, for so many people, in every facet of life. I am very excited to have finally taken all the formal steps of incorporating so that I can begin the real work of this non-profit, building up the community.
Being a mental health professional, I daily see so many people struggle to afford the health care services they need. People who have government assistance for health care still often struggle with barriers like transportation and child care. People who have private health insurance are often faced with deductibles and co-payments that prevent them from using their health insurance. I am also someone who lives with chronic illness and I know firsthand how access to health care can change someone’s quality of life. I don’t have all the answers. I cannot reform the entire health care industry, from pharmaceutical companies to insurance companies, but together we can make a difference.
Living in a community where there is so much poverty, I also want to help people find a way prosper economically. It often seems that in New Castle, and towns like it, learned helplessness becomes pervasive. People live with so little opportunity their hopes and dreams are quickly replaced with doubt and negativity. While I hope for an improved local economy, I am also wary of the effects of gentrification. I cannot fix all of these problems alone, but together we can make a difference.
With so many things working against a small, economically depressed community we also cannot be divided by prejudice and discrimination; we must work together. Lawrence County is a place with a lot of history, and a lot of diversity. I would like to preserve the rich and diverse history of our community, especially by supporting institutions that serve marginalized people. Again I cannot fix all of these problems alone, but together we can make a difference.
~ David J. Dean III, Founder
For more information about the specific initiatives of The Foundation, please see the Goals page.
The David Dean Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.