Meet the Director of Our Community Faith-Based Empowerment Program

We’d like to extend a warm welcome to Rev. Dr. Dawnn M. Pirani Brumfield, the Director of our Cultural Faith-Based Empowerment Program. She brings a combined 45 years of ministry and mental health clinical experience to her new position, in which she equips clergy, faith leaders, congregations and other community members with necessary tools, training and resources to support individuals’ emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), people experiencing traumatic events or mental health crises often turn to their trusted faith leaders before considering help from a mental health professional. Yet, clergy often face challenges in addressing mental health concerns.

“It felt like a continuation of the work I’ve been doing most of my life: making sure that healing and wholeness aren’t reserved for the privileged few,” Dawnn said.

Prior to joining Envision Unlimited, Dawnn served as the pastor for pastoral care at Flossmoor Community Church, where she focused on mental health, prayer, weddings, funerals and everything in between. She was previously a therapist at a private practice.

In her new role, each day brings new opportunities – from facilitating clergy trainings to holding space in a community circle or collaborating with her team to design curriculum that resonates with the community. Through her work, she aims to shift the narrative around mental health and create spaces where wellness conversations are welcomed.

“I get up every day because I know that healing is possible – and because I believe it’s my responsibility to help create the conditions where that healing can take root,” she said.