The Inspirations Behind It All
Dawn Manns-Brown
My sister, Dawn, lost her battle with breast cancer on July 17, 2021. She is my inspiration for starting this nonprofit.
Dawn was the most selfless, loving person I have ever met. Always thinking about others before herself made her the most wonderful sister, daughter, mother, wife, and person.
She always referred to herself as a stay-at-home mom, even when her sons were 24 and 28 at the time. Her boys meant the world to her.
She embodied compassion and concern for others. When she was around, everyone felt special and loved.
Darryl Keith Horne
My husband, Darryl, lost his fight with cancer on November 5, 2014.
He was a very compassionate person and he had a fierce love for all aspects of sports, especially being a part of a team. He credited much of his academic and professional successes to the life lessons growing up playing sports.
He loved coaching and helping kids grow, learn, and explore through sports.
Darryl was an underserved kid himself. One of nine children, he grew up in a three bedroom home with lots of love and support.
Through his involvement in sports, he received a 4-year track and field scholarship to VMI (Virginia Military Institute). Years later, the Governor of Virginia appointed him to the school’s Board of Directors.
A little about myself……
I am a mom of 3 children (who are now young adults). I try my best to see the good in each day and not take a single day for granted.
I started my career as a fundraiser for a legal nonprofit in Washington, DC, and then helped my husband start and build an engineering firm. After that, I stayed at home and raised our children.
I now work at my local public school, which connects me with some of these underserved kids.
I hope that you will join us on this journey,
Fondly,
Charlene Horne
