January at REST didn’t come with many photo moments, and in many ways, that feels fitting. The month was centered on returning to structure, rebuilding rhythm, and helping guests re-enter routine after a two-week break in December when the emergency shelter didn’t have any activities, or workshops.
Many guests shared how much they missed the consistency. Routine matters. It creates breathing room to refocus, reconnect to personal goals, and take the next step forward, even when that step is small.
Workshops Restarted and Community Spaces Reopened
As we stepped into the new year, we relaunched our 2026 workshop schedule and welcomed Alex back to lead yoga again. We also restarted Craft Club, with our volunteer Sandy returning to teach crochet and knitting. These workshops aren’t just activities; they are steady points of connection, creativity, and calm. They offer moments of choice, confidence, and community.
Inside the ERC, we took down the Christmas decorations and began shifting into the next season. Guests have already started decorating the tree for Valentine’s Day, adding their own touches and reminders of warmth and care.
We also had a simple but meaningful community-building moment when our overnight staff hosted a movie night with ice cream. It was well received, and it’s a reminder that joy and belonging are part of healing too.
Strengthening Our Team
January was also a month of investing in our staff and celebrating leadership. We onboarded two new team members, Alia and Cate, and spent significant time on training because a strong, well-supported team is essential to delivering consistent, survivor-centered services.
We also had the honor of celebrating an exciting milestone: Emily Kim has been promoted to Daytime Lead. Emily began her journey with REST as an intern in fall 2023. After graduating from college, she joined REST as full-time support staff and has been an integral part of strengthening the ERC. Before we even had a dedicated hotline advocate, Emily skillfully balanced hotline responsibilities while supporting ERC guests, consistently demonstrating exceptional dedication and care.
In 2024, Emily began facilitating our Job Readiness Workshop and created an entire six-week curriculum from the ground up. She has continued leading the workshop, equipping guests with practical tools and support as they prepare for and pursue employment. In her new role, Emily will serve as the point of contact for daytime activities in the PSC for ERC guests and will lead and coordinate PSC workshops. We’re grateful for Emily’s steady leadership and excited to see the impact she will continue to make in this next chapter.
Moving Forward With Steady Steps
January reminded us that progress is often built in the quiet, consistent moments. A routine restored. A workshop restarted. A new staff member trained. A movie night that creates connection. These are the building blocks that help survivors stabilize, set goals, and keep moving forward.
Thank you for being part of the community that makes this work possible!