By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
Imagine living in a city where you are surrounded by countless resources, but only a few know how to find and use them. Raina Dawson, a seasoned advocate and mediator, is on a mission to guide people in Toledo to do just that: find and use the resources right in their own backyard.
A Local Hero
Raina Dawson, Esq. JD/MBA, MA, has been a cornerstone of Toledo’s legal community for years. Recognized in 2022 as one of Toledo’s “20 Under 40,” Dawson’s journey is a testament to her dedication and passion for making her community a better place. She works as an advocate with Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. (ABLE), where she focuses on housing and community economic development. She’s also the Mediation Chair for the City of Toledo Human Relations Commission.
From Mediation to Advocacy
Dawson’s work is like that of a skilled chef blending ingredients to create the perfect dish. In her case, the “ingredients” are legal advice and community support. “I’ve always had a passion for serving the community,” she says. Her role involves everything from handling individual cases to advocating for legislative changes. It’s a bit like being a doctor who not only treats patients but also helps design better healthcare policies.
At ABLE, Raina splits her time between helping with housing issues and public benefits like Social Security and Medicaid. This dual role allows her to address immediate legal problems and work on larger-scale improvements. She explains, “I do both individual advocacy and legislative advocacy. Most importantly, I also go out into the community physically to understand the clients’ needs.”
Listening and Engaging
One of the key lessons Raina has learned is the importance of truly listening to the community. “To genuinely love your neighbor, I believe you must listen to them, listen to their experiences and believe them,” she says. This approach is vital because, often, legal solutions alone aren’t enough. For some issues, a social worker or community leader might be more effective.
Dawson’s work at ABLE involves connecting people with the right resources, much like how a guide leads hikers to a hidden trail. “One of the things I love most about my work is hosting clinics that bring people together,” she shares. These clinics are not just legal help; they are opportunities for people to find solutions and build connections.
The Perils of Digital Advice
In an age where social media and YouTube offer endless streams of advice, Dawson warns against relying too much on these sources. “Please stop taking legal advice from someone talking into a cellphone camera,” she urges. Many online influencers, she points out, may not offer accurate or helpful guidance, especially if they are not familiar with local laws and resources.
Instead, Dawson advocates for engaging directly with local professionals. “Turn off social media and engage with the real people in your own city,” she advises. By doing so, you not only get more relevant information but also become more connected to your community.
The Power of Doing and Being
Dawson believes that action is crucial. “We need more people to actively go out and do real things,” she says. Whether it’s becoming a lawyer, doctor, social worker, or coach, Raina stresses that there are no shortcuts to making a difference. “We must do the WORK and get there. No more shortcuts.”
Her message is clear: if you want to achieve something, you must be willing to put in the effort. She uses the example of a law student in her 70s who recently shadowed her. “It’s never too late,” Raina emphasizes. “Imagine how much you can do if you stop putting limitations on yourself.”
ABLE: A Beacon of Support
ABLE plays a crucial role in this community, serving 32 counties in northwest and west central Ohio. From defending the rights of agricultural workers and immigrants to providing legal aid in housing and healthcare, ABLE is a lifeline for many. Their Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program ensures the rights of those receiving long-term care, addressing issues from neglect to civil rights violations.
“ABLE’s impact is profound,” Dawson explains. “Our work touches so many aspects of people’s lives—from ensuring fair treatment in education to helping domestic abuse survivors find safety.” Their commitment to economic stability and consumer justice truly helps build a more just and supportive Toledo community.
Overcoming Perfectionism
Dawson also touches on an important lesson about progress. “Making sure everything is done perfectly is what stops forward-moving momentum,” she explains. “It’s okay to make mistakes and drop a few balls along the way. What matters is getting the work done and refining the process as you go.”
A Call to Action
Toledo is rich with resources, but the key is knowing how to access and utilize them effectively. Raina Dawson’s work highlights the value of engaging directly with local professionals and actively participating in your community. “Get involved, change your life and your community, you’re worth it and you can do it,” she encourages.
Dawson’s journey is a powerful reminder that true success is rooted in dedication and genuine community involvement, not in chasing superficial trends or quick fixes. Her story encourages us to look beyond the allure of digital distractions and focus on meaningful, tangible efforts.
As you embark on your own path, let her wisdom guide you: disconnect from the virtual noise, connect with real people, and commit to the hard work that truly makes a difference. Thank you, Raina Dawson, for showing us the way and inspiring us to build more authentic paths to success.
Follow ABLE’s Work: ablelaw.org