Support survivors escaping domestic violence

“From my lemonade stand.” – From a note included with a recent donation.

We were so delighted to receive a colorful drawing in the mail recently, and in the envelope was a $20 bill. We know that summer brings plenty of opportunities for spending money on things like ice cream and going to the movies. But “T” chose to donate this hard-earned money from their lemonade stand to help other kids and their families find safety.

Raphael House was voted one of the 100 Best Nonprofits to work for as a result of Oregon Business Magazine’s 2015 survey. Those of us lucky enough to work here know that Raphael House is special. There are coloring book pages on the table during staff meetings. A Wellness Committee and opportunities for self-care. Investment in the professional and personal growth of our team. Our high retention rates speak to this: 40% of current employees have worked here for over five years and 11% have been here for more than ten.

Many employees deal with trauma daily and supervisors work to ensure that the agency’s culture helps both direct staff and volunteers navigate this environment. An agency-wide focus on supporting each other’s roles encourages open communication and a holistic understanding of what we work towards accomplishing together.

Raphael House was also recently honored with Rotary Club of Portland’s 2015 Ethics in Business Award, for ethical business practices “beyond the expected” in the workplace, the marketplace and the community.

Our staff is inspired and motivated by this recognition, the donation from “T,” and people like you who support our work throughout the year. Thank you!