About Us

Recovery Consulting: A Lifeline for Aid Workers

Proper Support is dedicated to providing comprehensive recovery support for injured and traumatized aid workers. We specialize in assembling teams of professionals such as lawyers, psychotherapists, doctors, and more to ensure that no aid worker has to navigate their recovery alone. Our mission also includes advocating for improved Duty of Care practices and holding aid organizations accountable for their responsibilities.

The Story Behind Proper Support

Proper Support was founded by Steve Dennis, a veteran humanitarian aid worker who experienced a traumatic incident in Kenya in 2012. Steve was attacked, shot, and kidnapped while on duty. After a long and challenging recovery, and a successful legal battle against his former employer for gross negligence, Steve realized the urgent need for better support systems for aid workers struggling with their recovery from complex injuries. His experience and passion for helping others led to the creation of Proper Support, an initiative dedicated to ensuring that injured aid workers receive the care and support they need.

Our Services

At Proper Support, we offer a range of services to individual aid workers and to organizations, including:

• Recovery Coaching: Personalized support to help injured aid workers set and achieve their recovery goals.
• Mentoring: Guidance based on personal and professional experiences to navigate the recovery process.
• Project Management: Coordination of professional teams to provide comprehensive care.
• Advocacy: Promoting improved Duty of Care practices through media and legal action.
• Workshops and Training: Educational sessions on best preparation and practices for supporting injured aid workers.

What People Are Saying

• “Steve’s guidance was invaluable through a challenging recovery. His understanding of duty of care and PTSD, strategic focus, and use of external resources were instrumental. I am immensely grateful and highly recommend his expertise.” — A grateful aid worker recovering from a prolonged captivity.
• “Steve’s tenacity and understanding were life-changing. His ability to coordinate across continents and provide targeted support brought my case to a fitting resolution. Working with Steve, I regained control of my life.” — A supported client with a protracted grievance.
• “Working with Steve, a trauma recovery coach, was the best decision for my recovery. His approach, blending clarity and compassion, enabled me to navigate my trauma with manageable goals and newfound resources. I’m immensely grateful for Steve’s pro bono support, which made vital services accessible without the guarantee of payment.” — Recovering aid worker with complex injuries.

Get Involved

Join our mission

At Proper Support, we believe that comprehensive support comes from a community of dedicated professionals and understanding donors. There are two key ways you can join our mission: by providing your professional services or by making a financial contribution.

Join Our Network of Service Providers

We are actively searching for professionals to join our network and be part of our standby roster. Your expertise could be invaluable in providing occasional insights, guidance, or roles in our support or training teams. Learn More About Joining Our Network

Learn More About Joining Our Network

Support Us Financially

Your donations help us continue to provide critical support to aid workers who have fallen through the gaps of their organizations or insurance coverage. Whether through a one-time contribution or ongoing monthly support, your generosity makes a significant impact.

Donate Now

Steve Dennis, founder and owner of Proper Support, has over 20 years of professional experience in humanitarian aid programme management in complex settings, conflict resolution, mediation and survivor advocacy. Following a traumatic incident leading to severe personal injuries, Steve’s pursuit for accountability and closure led to a precedent setting lawsuit. Steve brings his unique credentials to help individuals and organizations recover from injury or grievance quicker, and grow better.