Dionne “Dee” Coleman

B.A. (She/Hers)

Root Wellness Center Board of Directors

With more than a decade of dedicated service in the Central Florida nonprofit sector, Dionne "Dee" Coleman has emerged as a prominent figure committed to effecting positive change. In 2016, she assumed the role of President and Executive Director at Samaritan Village, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing secure housing and restorative care for adult female survivors of sex trafficking. 

Prior to her leadership role at Samaritan Village, Dee amassed eight years of valuable experience in the nonprofit sector, contributing significantly at both state and local levels. Throughout this period, she undertook diverse responsibilities in project management, marketing, and development. 

Currently, Dee holds positions of influence and responsibility within the nonprofit landscape. She serves on the Board of Directors for Lifework Leadership, actively participates in the Central Florida Human Trafficking Task Force, and contributes as an Advisory Council member of S.A.F.E. in Central Florida. 

Recognized for her exceptional leadership, Dee received the prestigious Orlando Business Journal 40 under 40 award in 2023. Additionally, she was honored with the Polaris Star Award, acknowledging her as the Florida Human Trafficking Nonprofit Leader of the Year. Dee's outstanding contributions were further recognized with the 2019 Florida Department of Health in Orange County Public Health Heroes Award, the 2019 Central Florida Victims Services Network Award, and she is a distinguished member of Lifework Leadership with a certificate in Leadership Practice from Rollins College. 

In late 2023, Dee Coleman transitioned to the role of Director of Development at Lift Orlando. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to fortifying historically disinvested neighborhoods in Orlando by investing in the people and places they call home, learn, work, and play. Lift Orlando fosters collaboration among residents, business leaders, and the community, working towards a shared vision for revitalizing the Communities of West Lakes. Dee's decision to join the Lift Orlando team was prompted by her success in spearheading initiatives that emphasized a holistic and systemic approach to community development, resulting in healthier communities and a reduction in social issues like human trafficking. 

In addition to her role at Lift Orlando, Dee serves as a consultant to startup nonprofits, providing strategic guidance in areas such as fundraising, development, and creating sustainable systems within the social sector.