I was introduced to Sojourner Center when researching organizations after finishing my degree. I came to work for Sojourner Center to help others and didn't realize the vast impact this decision would have in my own life. Working in finance I was immediately impressed with how conscientious the organization was with their finances and how being good stewards of donor funds was/is always a factor when making financial decisions. Once settled into my position I began to see more of the organization and the impact it has in the lives of the women and children in shelter as well as the community it serves. It was difficult to hear the stories of the women and I would often go home exhausted and in tears as I tried to digest everything. A friend once asked me why I continued when things touched me so much and I thought a lot about it before I answered her. I finally called her and told her that I am so fortunate because although I hear and see things that my mind does not want to register I also get to see, meet and talk to some of the most wonderful individuals within this community who share their stories, time, money and lives to ensure this work continues. Some of these individuals have personal experience while others just feel passionate about the cause but all are kind, compassionate, empathetic and wonderful individuals that I am so lucky to have the experience of meeting or just hearing about. Some of these individuals have also personally inspired me to deal with my own issues and, although a very private person, I am learning and finding empowerment in the tools taught to the women that help me in my own life as I struggle to find peace from a past that I have tried my whole life to forget and escape. Every life has value and every life is important no matter the size, age or gender and everyone deserves to understand this. Our mission statement is “Overcoming the impact of Domestic Violence One Life at a Time” and I know that Sojourner will continue to work at touching the lives of the women and children at shelter as well as the lives of our very generous donors, community members and employees.