Scholarships for Healing and Growth— Providing educational support to students navigating mental health or neurodivergent challenges.
About Us
Centered on Ethan’s Legacy
The Ethan Dallas Hopeful Hearts Mental Health Scholarship Foundation was created to carry forward Ethan’s compassion, kindness, and courage. We support students who face mental health and neurodivergent challenges by opening doors to education, advocacy, and community. Through hope and opportunity, we’re breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and helping young people discover their strength and purpose.
Advocacy and Awareness — Promoting open conversations that reduce stigma and build understanding around mental health.
Community Programs — Creating safe, supportive spaces that connect students and families with valuable resources.
Empowerment Through Education — Encouraging resilience, learning, and self-belief in every student we serve.
Honoring Ethan’s Legacy — Continuing Ethan’s passion for helping others by spreading compassion, hope, and light.
Our Story
A Message That Changed Everything
In December 2023, fifteen-year-old Ethan Dallas sent his mom, Becca, a message that would alter their world forever. What began as a simple text about a video game opened the door to a painful truth about online exploitation — and a mother’s worst fear.
A Bright, Creative Soul
Ethan was full of life and imagination. He loved baseball, coding, and making people laugh. He taught himself to play piano and dreamed of becoming a Disney Imagineer one day. He was known for his kindness, humor, and the way he made others feel seen.
When the Unthinkable Happened
Like so many kids his age, Ethan found comfort and connection online. But in April 2024, that world turned tragic when he lost his life to the manipulation and fear caused by an online predator. His loss revealed how deeply vulnerable children can be in digital spaces meant for play.
From Grief to Purpose
In the aftermath of unimaginable loss, Becca and her family channeled their pain into purpose. Determined that no other family should endure the same heartbreak, they began sharing Ethan’s story publicly to raise awareness about online safety and mental health.
A Legacy of Hope
What began as a mother’s grief has grown into a mission of healing, protection, and advocacy. Through Ethan Dallas Hopeful Hearts, Becca and her family honor Ethan’s life by helping others find hope, seek help, and build safer worlds for the children they love.
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The team behind the organization
These are the people who carry Ethan’s legacy forward every day. Each board member brings unique experience, compassion, and commitment to protecting children and supporting families.
Becca Dallas | Founder/CEO
Becca Dallas serves as the CEO, Founder, and Board Chair of the Ethan Dallas Hopeful Hearts Mental Health Scholarship Foundation. Driven by her personal experience and a steadfast commitment to protecting children, Becca established the foundation to provide support, awareness, and resources for families facing online safety and mental health challenges. Her leadership brings empathy, clarity, and purpose to the organization’s mission, ensuring every program reflects Ethan’s legacy and the hope it was built upon. Becca’s resilience and heart-centered approach continue to guide the foundation’s growth and impact within the community.
Michelle | Co-Founder/Vice President
Michelle “Auntie Chell” is the Cofounder/VP of the Ethan Dallas Hopeful Hearts Foundation and a dedicated childcare director with a strong passion for supporting children and families. As Becca’s best friend and a longtime advocate for Ethan, she plays a key role in community events, merchandising, and outreach. Michelle’s heart, leadership, and commitment to children’s mental health make her an essential part of carrying forward Ethan’s legacy.
Emili | Secretary, Community Outreach & Family Support Coordinator
Emili serves as a Board Member and the Community Outreach & Family Support Coordinator for the Ethan Dallas Hopeful Hearts Mental Health Scholarship Foundation. With a deep passion for helping families and a strong commitment to youth mental health, Emili brings warmth, advocacy, and dedication to every part of our mission. She is a natural connector who works closely with families seeking resources, support, and guidance, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and cared for. Emili’s compassion, leadership, and heart-driven approach make her an essential part of honoring Ethan’s legacy and expanding the foundation’s impact within the community
Lisa | Treasurer
Lisa serves as the Treasurer of the Ethan Dallas Hopeful Hearts Mental Health Scholarship Foundation. As Ethan’s former special education teacher, she brought compassion, patience, and unwavering support into his life and continues to honor his legacy through her work. A dedicated educator, strong mental health advocate, and respected community leader, Lisa is committed to uplifting youth, empowering families, and creating positive change. Her heart for service and her passion for helping others make her an invaluable part of our mission.
Claudia BSW, MPH | Digital Wellness & Public Health Advisor
Claudia is a Digital Wellness expert with over 30 years in public health, supporting families, youth, and communities. As Co-Founder of the Unplug Collaborative and Global Day of Unplugging®, she helps people build healthier relationships with technology and strengthen real-life connection. Claudia brings her background in social work and public health to support our mission of protecting youth and empowering families in a tech-shaped world.
Savannah | Youth Behavioral Development Coordinator
Savannah Kirby brings a strong background in youth services, residential care, and behavioral support to the board. She previously worked alongside Ethan in residential aid, where she developed a passion for supporting at-risk youth and children with behavioral and developmental needs. Savannah has extensive experience working with youth who require emotional and behavioral guidance, and she is currently pursuing certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).Her hands-on experience, leadership skills, and dedication to empowering young people make her a valuable asset to the organization. Savannah is committed to advocating for safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for all youth.
Colleen | Fundraising Coordinator
Colleen Manley brings years of hands-on fundraising experience through organizing and leading successful fundraisers for her children’s sports and activities. She has a strong ability to plan events, coordinate logistics, and engage families and communities around a shared purpose. Comfortable with outreach and public speaking, Colleen plays a key role in supporting fundraising initiatives and donor engagement for the Ethan Dallas Hopeful Hearts Mental Health Scholarship Foundation.