We give every child the chance to play— one wheelchair accessible playground at a time.

Our Mission

The Rafaella Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded to bridge the gap for children with special needs by creating inclusive and accessible play environments. By fostering a community of support and accessibility, we strive to empower every child to experience the joy and benefits of play.

A Letter From Our Founder

Hi there! I’m Danica Alba, but please feel free to call me Dawn.

As the founder and CEO, I’m truly honored to have you here. I started this foundation to honor my sister’s memory, but it has grown into something much bigger—becoming a source of hope and purpose that I could have never imagined.

As the current National American Miss Teen NJ, a proud Christian, and someone still navigating the journey of grief and healing, I’ve learned that every challenge has only strengthened my commitment to making a difference. If we can uplift even one child or family, every effort will have been worth it.

Thank you for joining us in our mission to create change, inspire confidence, and support those in need. We’re just getting started, and we’re excited to have you along for the journey!

Stay tuned—this is only the beginning.

With love,

Dawn ♡

What We Do

Raising Awareness

Ever child deserves to feel valued and empowered.

Every parent deserves the support that they need.

Through our library readings and online platforms, we share stories and resources that celebrate their unique strengths.

Fundraising Events

We fundraise for wheelchair-accessible playgrounds to ensure that every child can enjoy the fun and freedom of play.

Our goal is to create spaces where everyone feels welcome and included, making playtime a joyful experience for every child.

Advocating For Families

The Rafaella Foundation bridges the gap to ensure that every voice is heard.

We team up with local organizations and leaders to advocate for inclusivity in public spaces.

Our Story

Rafaella was born with Lissencephaly, a rare brain condition that required her to use a wheelchair. Yet, her spirit was full of joy—she loved music, making friends, and greeting everyone with a bright smile. Sadly, Rafaella never had the chance to enjoy a wheelchair-accessible playground, as the only one in the area was built after she passed away at 13.

Inspired by her legacy of confidence, warmth, and inclusion, we created The Rafaella Foundation. Our mission is simple yet profound: to give every child the opportunity to play and thrive, one wheelchair-accessible playground at a time.