FOUNDATION
Founding Principles
Responsibility
Discipline/ Dedication
Contribution
Duty
Founding Principles
Responsibility
Discipline/ Dedication
Contribution
Duty
History and Creation of Dawson’s Peak
In 2016, Dawson was working in Los Angeles, CA as a Managing Director for an Investment Bank specializing in mergers and acquisitions. Although the work was challenging and Dawson was successful from “societal standards”, he often felt a sense of unhappiness and lack of fulfillment. Given the nature of the business, long weekly hours over many years typically did not allow for a wider scope of outside activities. Although he had performed at high levels across multiple fields, Dawson felt increasingly disheartened with regards to a lack of greater purpose.
It was during this time that he lost two people instrumental in his life – his mother and girlfriend. Dealing with the pain and loss, he knew that it was time for a greater change. In order to identify and begin to institute such change, Dawson felt he needed to remove himself completely from his comfort zone. Three weeks after the second loss, he flew to Katmandu, Nepal to hike solo around the Mt. Everest region. Over the next three weeks, Dawson completed several climbs/treks. Before this trip, he had NO previous climbing experience. During this time, Dawson removed himself completely from outside distractions such as music, television, telephones and, to the fullest extent possible, other people. Spending each day hiking, reading and writing, he discovered the introspective/meditative elements associated trekking and mountain climbing.
“I want to inspire others that significant life change is possible. We are all guilty, at points, of falling for the typical trappings that lead to momentary, topical happiness. I want to help people develop a true sense of purpose; experience true fulfillment; and avoid the traps I fell into.”
– Dawson
It was on this trip that Dawson found a renewed sense of purpose. He began to recognize and understand his desire to transition his life from “self-centered” to “service-centered”. He came to know that his purpose is in helping others identify and pursue their purpose.
Over the following two years, Dawson continued to travel the world climbing. His ultimate goal was to determine a way to transition his love for climbing and adventure into a “service-centered” organization that could be used to inspire others to recognize both their potential for change and their duty to pursue it.
In 2018, DP became a recognized 501(c)(3) public charity. We develop and host large scale, adventure-related projects around the world that are undertaken by our sponsored athletes. These projects are designed to enable viewers to draw parallels between themselves and our athletes. Personal challenges may be specific but effort and commitment are universal.
CHARITY PARTNERS
CHARITY PARTNERS
Gary Sinise Foundation
Gary Sinise Foundation Mission: At Gary Sinise Foundation, we serve our nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need. We do this by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen and build communities.
*A perfect score (100) recipient.
Hope for the Warriors
Hope For The Warriors Mission: We believe those touched by military service can succeed at home by restoring their sense of self, family, and hope. Nationally, Hope For The Warriors provides comprehensive support programs for service members, veterans and military families that are focused on transition, health and wellness, peer engagement and connections to community resources.
*An honor earned by only 4% of rated charities.
Support
Dawson’s Peak is a 501(c)(3), public charity (Federal Tax ID 83-1584127). Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowable by law.