This time last year, Raphael House was in a state of uncertainty. Facing a significant budget deficit, we were uncertain how we would address our building maintenance needs, retain our gifted and dedicated staff, and most importantly, how we would continue to provide our tailored services to our families. These services have supported thousands of families in reaching their goals since opening our doors in 1971.
Now, approximately one year since we called on you to help keep our doors open, we are certain in our plan for the future. We have made record breaking strides toward reducing our deficit.
Our gala in May raised over $1,000,000–a first for Raphael House–thanks to the amazing generosity of our attendees. We initiated a strategic planning process which identified new opportunities for government funding, and solidified key relationships to ensure long-term financial stability. And we continue to strengthen relationships with our community members who will always be a critical source of support. Thanks to this support, we remain a majority community funded organization.
Your contributions support the needs of our families now. In the past year, they have provided for over 13,450 meals; assisted 93% of career development recipients in improving their goal-setting, self advocacy, and positive self-outlook; and contributed to the emotional, developmental, and academic support of 370 children.
Because of your support, one of Raphael House’s former residents and tutoring students is starting her first semester of college this fall. The hurdles she overcame to reach this accomplishment were significant–immigrating to the US as a teenager with a single parent, neither of whom spoke English.
Like all families connected with Raphael House, this family set clear goals for their future. In particular, that this young, bright, hardworking student would earn a college degree. They worked diligently with our Children’s Services Manager, Ralitza Doynova, M.Ed, to advance her English and learn the intricate details of the American university system.
When the time came to apply for college, this student had a plan. Through her work with Ralitza, she narrowed down where she wanted to go, identified scholarships for which she was eligible, secured letters of recommendation, and even participated in an informational interview with an expert in her chosen field.
Earning a college education is a milestone for any child. And because of the determination of this family, and the support of Raphael House staff and supporters, this student is well on her way to doing so, at her first choice of school no less.
This is just one success story of many of the students, children, parents, and caregivers who come through Raphael House doors. Whether in tutoring, career development, or just within the four walls of a private and safe room, here at Raphael House, families take strides to meet their own unique goals.
I invite you to contribute to their journeys, to partner in our mission. Together, our future is full of milestones.
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