06 Feb We Will Adapt & Evolve

“When the world implodes and explodes… you can either stay the course the best you can, or adapt and evolve.”

Dear Friends,

I spoke those words in our video celebrating 15 years of Resilience and Renewal. At that moment, I was reflecting on the 2020 pandemic. It’s remarkable to think that five years have passed since our country and region was transformed by profound events like COVID-19, which changed how we work, connect, and navigate the world, and the killing of George Floyd, which ignited a long-overdue racial reckoning.

I remember those days vividly – how we opened Helen’s Place, doubling our capacity and expanding our services to provide shelter and safety to more women. How we, as a community – staff, donors, and supporters – strengthened our resolve to ensure the women we serve had what they needed. We found new opportunities and seized them. We reinforced our commitment to providing shelter, safety, and stability for women.

And now, once again, we find ourselves in uncertain times. A new presidential administration is aiming to leave its mark on the world. Many of us feel the turbulence of shifting policies and decisions that are arriving at a seemingly relentless pace, leaving little time to catch our breath before the next change unfolds.

In these moments, I return to my words: We WILL adapt and evolve.

We WILL continue to stand with women as they journey from homelessness to safe and stable lives.

We WILL draw strength from our values – welcoming, compassionate, inclusive, and supportive – ensuring every woman we serve is cared for with dignity and respect.

Our board, staff and I reaffirm our dedication to being a place of hope and change for women experiencing homelessness. And we trust our community to walk alongside us, ensuring every woman we serve finds the safety and stability she deserves.

And, should any policies or changes directly affect our work, I will communicate openly and transparently about their impact.

I know you will stand with us, wrapping our arms and hearts around those who need us most.

As our late founder, Helen Leuzzi, said when this organization was taking shape, “It just inspires me to see… they keep on going…”

And we will!

With gratitude,

Dietra Clayton
Executive Director