As the new year approaches, I like to take some time to reflect on all that I have to be grateful for this past year. Despite the challenging nature of this work, there are so many moments to celebrate. None of these special moments would be possible without people like you…generous neighbors who step up to support women, children, and families in need across D.C. Thank you for the difference you make in the lives of survivors in our community.
1. Stories of Hope
One of the best parts of my job is seeing the women and children in our programs soar. Over the course of a year, more than 100 residents graduate from House of Ruth. The vast majority of graduates move into more permanent, independent housing. I invite you to read through our Stories of Hope. This story collection details true stories of women who, despite life’s challenges, have pushed forward to pursue their dreams for themselves and their families.
2. Generous Supporters like You
Every single year, nearly 10,000 thoughtful people, just like you, make a financial contribution to House of Ruth. These meaningful donations fuel our programs and mission. Our work simply would not be possible without your generous support. Thinking about how many people, of all different backgrounds, step up to support survivors in D.C. never fails to bring a smile to my face. For you, I am deeply grateful.
3. 47 Years of Impact
2023 marked our 47th year of empowering women, children, and families to rebuild their lives and heal from trauma, abuse, and houselessness. On our first night of operation – back in 1976 – we housed eight women in the basement of a row home on Massachusetts Avenue in Northwest D.C. Though we started small, our ambitions were big: to empower survivors to break the cycle of abuse and live independently, safely, and with dignity. You can learn more about the history of House of Ruth by visiting our timeline. This timeline illustrates how supporters like you have helped us deepen our impact over our five decades of service.
4. One Year of Multigenerational Psychotherapy at Kidspace
In July, we celebrated the first anniversary of our multigenerational therapy program, run in partnership with the Early Childhood Innovation Network (ECIN). From brain science, we understand just how important the first years of life are for development. Like all children, our young ones at Kidspace deserve access to the highest quality learning experiences. But unlike many of their peers, they have too often faced unthinkable challenges…exposure to trauma, abuse and housing instability. We recognize that our children need more than a great learning environment. They need opportunities to heal with the support of comprehensive mental health services. Last year, we teamed up with experts at ECIN to begin offering therapy for young children, their parents, and their extended families. This program was even recognized by Early Learning Nation in this article.
5. Reconnecting with Old Friends
One rewarding part of serving with House of Ruth is meeting people who have been touched by our programs. This year, I’ve had the great pleasure of getting to know Mr. Michael Trotter and Mrs. Tanya Trotter. They are the incredibly talented husband and wife duo behind the award-winning musical group The War And Treaty. Michael Trotter himself is a past program participant. As a child, he found safety at House of Ruth when his mother sought refuge from a dangerous environment. This summer, I had the chance to sit down with him and Tanya for a powerful interview. I strongly encourage you to take a look at the video, which features their inspiring song “Take Me In.” “Take Me In” is more than just a song. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the journey of resilience, hope, and transformation that House of Ruth represents. This anthem beautifully captures the essence of our mission, and we believe it will resonate with you, our valued supporters.
They say “it takes a village”…and that couldn’t be truer. Without your support, we could not offer the myriad of resources it takes to overcome lifetimes of trauma and abuse. I have always said, “Each woman has her own destination, and it is our job to help her safely on that path.”
Thank you for being a part of so many of our women’s journeys. It truly takes a village.
-Sandra Jackson, President & CEO
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