OUR PURPOSE
Empowering Women and Youth in Crisis Through Freedom and Education.
Giving back was a core value of our Aunt Mary Ann (AMA). She focused her life on lifting up others, and we are proud to continue her legacy through The AMA Dunn Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
To honor her, we focus our efforts on two critical areas:
Crisis Support & Survivor Advocacy:
We provide vital funding to non-profits in the human trafficking and domestic violence space, as well as the tireless staff who support survivors on the front lines.
Education & Opportunity:
We fund scholarships designed to educate women and youth, equipping them with the tools to reclaim their independence, freedom, and choices in life.
ABOUT
The AMA Dunn Foundation honors the legacy of Mary Ann “AMA” Dunn, a fierce advocate who championed human trafficking survivors, supported frontline staff, and quietly funded education for women in need. Following her passing in 2025, her niece Caitlin transitioned her charitable trust into this foundation to expand her beautiful mission. Today, we carry her joyful spirit forward by empowering women and youth in crisis with the ultimate gifts: freedom and choice.
WHAT WE DO
Scholarships
We empower individuals through education and life-changing experiences by funding trade school tuition for survivors, and college or vocational paths for graduating seniors in Santa Clara, CA. Additionally, we provide study abroad scholarships for Chico State students, honoring Mary Ann’s own transformative and beloved time in Granada, Spain.
Grants
We provide strategic funding to non-profit organizations working on the front lines of human trafficking and domestic violence. True to Mary Ann’s joyful spirit, a portion of our grants specifically fund staff appreciation and wellness initiatives to uplift and sustain the tireless advocates doing this vital work.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
Graduating Seniors College Scholarship
Supporting the next generation of business leaders and marketers like Mary Ann, this scholarship helps graduating high school seniors in Santa Clara, CA, fund their college or trade school education as they take their first steps toward building a meaningful career.
Study Abroad Scholarship
Inspired by Mary Ann’s own transformative and cherished time living in Granada, Spain, this scholarship funds international study experiences for Chico State students, opening doors to global perspectives, independence, and life-changing adventures.
Professional Education Scholarship
Designed to foster autonomy and economic empowerment, this scholarship provides survivors of trafficking and domestic violence with the financial support needed to attend trade school, gain tangible career skills, and build a secure, self-determined future.