Director’s Note

Dear Friends,

I realized recently that, as of July 14, I have officially been the Director of Room One for a full year. This is significant because I am now able to recognize the seasonal trends in the social service needs of our community. For example, in the middle of summer we start seeing an influx of homeless families and individuals seeking housing and other supportive services. This summer Room One is poised to meet these needs better than ever before, with our dynamic new outreach and advocacy team. Adrianne Moore, former Room One director, and Sarah Longino-DeKalb, long time Methow Valley resident, have recently taken on a job share to fulfill the role of Outreach Coordinator. The pair bring a unique and valuable skill set to their work at Room One.

Adrianne’s strong background in survivor advocacy will allow Room One to maintain and grow our important Domestic Violence Prevention and Response Program. Room One’s current program consists of long and short term advocacy for DV survivors including safety planning, referrals, and group process. With Adrianne’s guidance Room One has the capacity to expand these services and focus our outreach to targeted community groups, clinics, and law enforcement to better reach clients in need. Adrianne’s new role with Room One allows her to concentrate on her passion for advocacy, and her previous experience with us has allowed her to hit the ground running with ideas developed during her former directorship.

Sarah’s skill set stems from her vast experience with non-profit administration, including four years as the director of the Methow Valley Community School, and a position on the founding board of Room One. Her history in this community gives Sarah valuable insight in responding to the growing and changing needs of her neighbors. In addition to her advocacy role, Sarah will focus her attention on generating a greater community awareness of the full spectrum of services Room One offers through marketing, publicity, fundraisers, and educational outreach. Her expertise will enable Room One to build upon the growth of our parent and child health, and youth programs as well as our resource and referral center. You can enjoy the benefits of Sarah’s outreach efforts through our new Facebook page, our improved website, and our improved communication (such as this e-newsletter!).

As I move into my second year of directorship, I look forward to working with this wonderful team to sustain and grow the programs that serve our community.  Room One’s fundraising priorities for the coming year will focus on sustainability of staff and  I am enthusiastic to see our increased outreach enrich our fundraising capabilities. The continuity of a dynamic team, such as the one we have recently put together, will ensure the quality of social services we can offer long term to our Valley.

Have a pleasant summer, and please, come by to meet the new team!

Sincerely,

Karissa McLane