Survivor | Author | Founder | Public Speaker
Dion Green is the Founder and CEO of Flourishing Under Distress Given Encouragement (FUDGE), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of trauma through resources, advocacy, and compassionate care. The FUDGE Foundation works locally and nationally to guide individuals through grief and healing after traumatic events by delivering direct support services and championing systemic change.

In a world often shadowed by unspeakable tragedy, Dion Green stands as a powerful testament to resilience. After losing his father, Derrick Fudge, in the devastating Dayton mass shooting on August 4, 2019, Dion refused to be consumed by sorrow. Instead, he turned his “pain into purpose” and channeled his grief into a transformative mission—one that fosters healing and drives the push for lasting reform.

A passionate voice against gun violence, Dion works alongside communities nationwide that have been deeply impacted by this crisis. His efforts go beyond advocacy; through his foundation, he provides tangible support to those affected by gun violence and actively campaigns for meaningful changes in gun legislation.

Dion is instrumental in numerous initiatives designed to encourage dialogue, raise awareness, and empower individuals. He takes part in gun rallies to spotlight the critical need for reform and community strength. His leadership extends across multiple influential organizations: he serves on the Board of Felons with a Future, which helps individuals with criminal records reintegrate into society, and Upturn Ohio, which promotes justice and equality.

He also contributes to the NMVVRC Survivors & Providers Steering Committee, addressing the needs of homicide and violent crime survivors, and works with the Justice Research and Statistics Association and the Urban Institute on essential research that shapes policies for gun violence prevention and public safety. Additionally, Dion sits on the Sinclair Social Work Advisory Board, the ADAMHS ACE Advisory Council, the National Center for Victims of Crime, and numerous other boards.

Academically, Dion holds an MBA in Business Administration from Keller Graduate School, with a minor in Entrepreneurship, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from DeVry University. A Certified Peer Support Specialist in Ohio, he is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at Capella University to deepen his capacity for community impact.

Dion is also a published author. His memoir, Untitled: Act of God/Act of Man, chronicles his personal tragedies while illustrating a journey of resilience, forgiveness, and giving back to his community.

A graduate of Leadership Ohio’s 2021 cohort—one of the program’s largest and most distinguished classes—and Leadership Clark County (2022), Dion continues to build on a foundation of service and leadership.

His unwavering commitment has earned him numerous accolades from local officials and governors. He is a two-time recipient of The Dayton Daily News 2021 Community Gem award, recognizing his profound dedication to the Dayton area. Other honors include The Coretta Scott King Legacy Award, The NASW Agency of the Year, the 2025 Miami Valley Peace Award, and the Community Hero Award. Media features celebrating his work continue to inspire others as he tirelessly aids communities in their healing journeys.

Through his extensive work with these organizations and initiatives, Dion Green exemplifies visionary leadership and an unyielding commitment to a safer, more just future. His voice and actions resonate powerfully in the national conversation on gun violence, ensuring that affected communities are not only heard but actively supported.

READ THE MEMOIR

From incarceration to a devastating tornado, and ultimately to a tragic mass shooting, author Dion Green takes readers on a profound journey through the defining moments of his life. The narrative begins with his childhood in Springfield, Ohio, where he shares vivid memories and reflects on the pivotal, life-altering events that shaped him.

In his memoir, Untitled, Green chronicles how he and his family confronted hardship head‑on—learning to forgive, holding fast to their faith, and persevering through one setback after another.

More than a personal story, Untitled: Act of God/Act of Man stands as a powerful testimony to resilience and inner strength. It offers hope and encouragement to anyone grappling with life’s difficulties, while also highlighting the unwavering support of a community that rallied around Green and his loved ones when they needed it most.

Get your copy here!