Meet Dawn Moder

Dawn Moder, a September 2024 Champion of the Month, is an occupational communication specialist for Rise’s Minnesota Employment Center (MEC) program. MEC supports people who are Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing in their career journey. Before joining Rise seven years ago, she worked at a group home for Deaf people. She shares, “One day, a person who worked for MEC came to the group home and mentioned it was her last day of work.” A new opportunity intrigued Dawn. “Right away, I filled out an application.”

Dawn has a passion for her work. “I love working with the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities, providing support for their jobs and communication access.”

Dawn’s Impact

Dawn is passionate about supporting people along their employment journeys. Her team members share that Dawn has built great rapport with multiple area Target stores and become an important liaison for store managers as they navigate interpreting and learning about Deaf culture. She also supports communication between managers and people they hire through partnerships with Rise/MEC.

“Dawn always goes out of her way to help the team,” says a team member. “She is a great mentor for new team members and comes to work every day with a smile and a positive attitude, no matter how challenging the situation she may be facing.”

Dawn finds satisfaction in her work. “I’m proud of the work I do, especially seeing the positive impact it has on people’s lives. One person I supported turned his life around and even earned the Rise’ing Star award.”

Dawn Outside of Rise

Dawn has many interests outside of her career with Rise. “I enjoy quilting and often attend quilting retreats two or three times a year. I also love watching movies, drawing, and traveling. This year, I’m excited about an upcoming cruise to Alaska!”