FROM THE DESK OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DENISE M. BERRY

As we gather here to reflect on the past year and celebrate our collective resiliency, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and pride It is with great pleasure that I share with you the highlights of our journey and the incredible impact we have made together.

Our theme for this year's annual impact report is resiliency, a quality that runs through the very fabric of our organization and the individuals we serve. It is in the face of adversity that our true strength shines, and this past year has certainly put our resilience to the test.

After the world was thrown into chaos by the global pandemic and following economic stressors, Shelterhouse has stood strong. We faced unprecedented challenges head-on, never wavering in our commitment to supporting survivors and ensuring their safety and well-being. Through Shelterhouse Midland Restaurant Week, our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners rallied together, demonstrating unwavering compassion and determination.

While my official final day with Shelterhouse will come in June 2023, I have found myself reflecting on what we have been able to accomplish together and feeling excited to see where Shelterhouse will be in the future. I will be serving as the interim executive director during the search, and have full faith and confidence in our Board finding a leader to continue to bring the mission of Shelterhouse to life.

Throughout this journey, we expanded our services, adapted our programs, and found innovative ways to meet the evolving needs of survivors. We brought the SANE suite inhouse, welcoming a licensed nurse to our team Our counseling team grew, allowing us to provide comprehensive care to even more survivors. And with the help of additional funding, we will now able to expand our housing programs, providing safe and stable environments for those in need in the years to come.

But our accomplishments extend far beyond the growth of our programs. Shelterhouse has become a beacon of hope, recognized as one of the leading victim service provider agencies in our state. Our policies, procedures, and practices have set the standard for others to follow, and our unwavering commitment to survivor-centered care has garnered prestigious awards and accolades.

Resilience is not just about surviving; it's about thriving. It's about embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. And that is exactly what we have done. We have taken every setback and turned it into a stepping stone, propelling us forward with renewed determination and purpose.

The heart and soul of our resiliency stems from the incredible individuals who make up our community. To the survivors who have shown immense courage and strength on their healing journeys, we salute you. To our staff, volunteers, and supporters, thank you for your unwavering dedication and unwavering belief in the power of resilience. Without your tireless efforts and generous support, none of this would be possible.

As we look to the future, we are filled with optimism and excitement. The challenges our community faces may be daunting, but we know that together, we can overcome anything. Shelterhouse will continue to be a sanctuary of hope, healing, and empowerment for survivors. We will keep pushing boundaries, setting new standards, and inspiring change.

I invite you to delve into the pages of this annual impact report, where you will find inspiring stories of resilience, remarkable achievements, and the unwavering spirit of our community. Together, we are building a future where every survivor can find safety, support, and the opportunity to thrive.

Thank you for being an integral part of the Shelterhouse community. Your support has made all the difference, and I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Denise M. Berry