Letter from Denise Berry, Executive Director

Photo courtesy of Katy Kildee, Midland Daily News

If my reflection of 2020 had to be summed up in one word, I would choose Gratitude.

First, I want to express gratitude for Janine and the countless donors, volunteers, and staff members who built Shelterhouse in Midland and Gladwin Counties to the organization it is today. It’s hard to believe that Shelterhouse started with community members who were welcoming survivors fleeing abuse into their homes.

Today? Because of the support of our community, we are able to welcome our neighbors seeking refuge, along with their children and pets, into our beautiful, private, and safe facility.

Not only was 2020 a year full of unforeseen challenges for our community, Shelterhouse underwent great transformations. In addition to moving into our new home in Midland on Waldo just before the pandemic, we had to cancel our signature event, Chefs for Shelterhouse. But our community stepped up and despite not being able to have the event, they insisted that their sponsorship dollars still go towards Shelterhouse’s mission.

Stepping into my new role as Executive Director, I have been overwhelmed by the resiliency of the people we serve and the flexibility of Shelterhouse's team. One story that really struck me shows the incredible empowering partnerships Shelterhouse team members take on with survivors as they seek a life free from violence:

Olivia* expressed the desire to get out of her abusive relationship, but she didn’t have a driver’s license and felt physically “stuck” as a result. Olivia’s advocate understood the impact that getting her driver's license would have and they met up every Saturday for driving lessons. In just a few short months, Olivia earned her driver's license and is now in a much healthier, much safer situation.

On behalf of the survivors we serve, our team, and the Board of Directors, thank you for your tremendous support. Together we are making our vision; an engaged community that cultivates and nurtures healthy relationships, into a reality.

In gratitude,

Denise Berry

Executive Director