As we celebrate Black History Month, we at Venture Together are proud to recognize this year’s theme, “African Americans and the Workforce.” This theme highlights the resilience, contributions, and achievements of the Black community who have shaped industries, cultures, and history through their dedication and perseverance.
This year, we are honored to highlight the story of Ashley Dawson—a passionate advocate for political justice and community empowerment, whose work exemplifies the spirit of progress and resilience. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from South Carolina State University, Ashley has dedicated herself to uplifting communities through advocacy and storytelling. She works at Venture Together as a Residential Placement Coordinator.
Ashley’s story is deeply rooted in the experiences of her father, a man who navigated countless obstacles with unwavering determination. Born to sharecropper parents, he left school at 13 to work in the coal mines.
“As a young adult, he earned the trust of others and began driving white women to their destinations in a time when that was both a risk to his safety and a courageous act”- Ashley Dawson
Later, he served in the Korean War before moving to Rockland County in the 1950s. There, he worked at the Piermont Paper Mill, briefly served as a sheriff’s deputy, and eventually built his own business providing transportation services. He even drove renowned actress Helen Hayes and played a key role in creating Nyack’s Elks Club, offering a space for Black residents to gather and build community. Throughout his life, he remained a pillar of strength, faith, and generosity, always opening his home to those in need.
Ashley carries her father’s legacy forward as a civil rights activist, an NAACP member, and a leader within her church. Ashley’s commitment has earned her recognition from the United States House of Representatives, the NAACP, and various municipalities in Rockland County. Her dedication to social justice and leadership continues to make a significant impact on the communities she serves. Her latest project, a short film titled That Kid, shines a light on the emotional challenges faced by gifted Black youth striving for success in a system that wasn’t designed to support them. Through this film, she hopes to spark meaningful conversations and drive change in educational spaces.
"As someone who made it through our system—which was not designed to serve me—I invite you to join us in this creative community solution towards ensuring good educational environments for everyone,"- Ashley Dawson
That Kid will premiere this March, marking another powerful step in her lifelong dedication to advocacy and empowerment.
Ashley’s family history is also deeply tied to Venture Together. Her uncle, Joseph Dawson, was among the 200 Rocklanders, including Venture’s founder, Kathy Lukens, who participated in the 1957 Prayer Pilgrimage to Washington, standing in solidarity for civil rights and justice.
At Venture Together, we are proud to celebrate stories like Ashley’s—stories of resilience, achievement, and progress that inspire us to continue fostering a more inclusive and equitable world.