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About Us
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New Dawn Social Services (NDSS) is a faith based organization that focuses on men and women being released from the state, county, federal, and local penal facilities, and individuals beingreleased from rehabilitation centers. We aim to improve outcomes associated with the transitionto the community and remove barriers that make this process appear insurmountable. Our programming model is designed to extend wrap-around services which include an aftercare format and collaboration.
Project Evolve, a 24 week program, 12 weeks of Behavioral Modification, 4 weeks of Spiritual Awareness, 4 weeks of Health & Wellness and 4 weeks of Financal Literacy has been integrated within our services. We believe and research indicates, increased knowledge in these four areas enhances effective and proper integration into society. We aim to reduce recidivism and equip clients with leadership skills to assist them with gainful employment. We ensure that each resident released from our program has a relapse prevention plan and support system to assist with transition.
Executive Director
Years ago, the original vision of Dawn Transitional Center, was the brainchild of the late Dr. Mary L. Avery. Her passion was to serve those within the penal system and those being released. In November of 2017, the vision was recaptured as New Dawn Social Services by Mary, Wesley, Crystal, and Sharon.
Sharon A. Smith, the Executive Director for NDSS has worked with marginalized and underserved individuals over 20 years. Serving at Hope Church as their Urban Director for eight years and with Oasis of Hope for two years.
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Prior to serving at Hope Church, she was the Executive Assistant for Urban Youth Initiative. She is a former Personal Finance teacher at The Soulsville Charter School. In addition to managing New Dawn, she serves with her husband at Pillow Street CME church where he is the senior pastor.
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Sharon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management and a Master of Arts in Leadership. In her moments of spare time, you may find her reading, enjoying a movie or spending quality time with family including their fur babies, Bella & Dakota. Sharon is married to Wesley D. Smith, they are a blended family with 7 children, 21 grandchildren with number 22 coming February 2026.
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"Be the change you wish to see in the world"
M. Gandhi
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