Our Story
The Hawkes Initiative began with a deeply personal journey.
Founder Autumn Hawkes created the not for profit after her father, Captain Dave Hawkes of Richmond Hill Fire, was diagnosed with fire-related cancer — a reality faced by many firefighters due to repeated exposure to toxic environments throughout their careers.
Watching someone who spent a lifetime protecting others face the hidden risks of the profession brought a new perspective to the dangers firefighters carry long after leaving the fire ground.
What started as a family’s experience became a mission: to raise awareness, advocate for prevention, and create meaningful support for firefighters and families navigating occupational cancer.
The Hawkes Foundation exists to turn awareness into action — honouring those impacted while working toward a safer future for those who continue to serve.
Who we Represent
The Hawkes Initiative represents:
Firefighters exposed to occupational cancer risks
Families navigating the impact of firefighter-related illness
Departments and communities committed to prevention and awareness
Advocates working toward safer practices and better protection for first responders
Our goal is to ensure that no firefighter faces these challenges alone, and that the risks associated with the profession are better understood, prevented, and addressed.
Our work is grounded in community, education, and respect for the firefighting profession.
VISION STATEMENT
A future where firefighters are protected from preventable occupational cancers and supported with dignity, care and evidence based prevention
Who we HONOUR
The Hawkes Initiative honours Captain Dave Hawkes and every firefighter who has faced cancer as a result of their service.
We recognize the strength, resilience, and sacrifice of firefighters and their families — including those currently fighting, those in recovery, and those we have lost.
Their stories inspire our mission and guide our work.
Contact us
We’re here to support firefighters, families, and partners.
Whether you’re looking to share a story, collaborate, volunteer, or learn more about firefighter cancer prevention, we welcome your message.
info@thehawkesinitiative.com — general inquiries
support@thehawkesinitiative.com— firefighter support requests
partnerships@thehawkesinitiative.com — sponsors/media/collabs