Dawn Ferrer has called southeastern North Carolina her home since 2001 but she originally hails from upstate New York. When she decided to return to school for her Master’s Degree at UNC Wilmington, one of the classes in her major, Conflict Management and Resolution, changed her trajectory in life. This was where she first learned that human trafficking isn’t always the way it is sensationalized in the movies and that many victims are groomed and manipulated by someone they trust. This began her journey of volunteering at a local non-profit, becoming a case manager working directly with survivors, Program Director, and then Executive Director. For over a decade, Dawn has worked to ensure survivors have a voice and that all programs are trauma-informed and person-centered.

Her accomplishments include developing and implementing policies and procedures for the first Emergency Shelter on the East Coast and a long-term residential program, group curriculum for incarcerated survivors, and an after-school prevention program for middle school-aged girls to help them stay safe from predators. She is considered an expert in the field of human trafficking and has been interviewed by local newspapers, TV stations, regional and statewide blogs, and podcasts and has been a keynote speaker and trainer at national conferences.

In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her two daughters, walking on the beach with her fur baby, Rusty, planning events for her wine group, playing tennis and learning pickleball, and dancing to live music! Her strong belief that knowledge is our best defense to keep everyone safe motivated her to start Dawn Ferrer Solutions. Her innovative consulting services encompass her compassionate and passionate spirit to educate, engage and empower.