Dear Friends and Supporters:
It is with mixed emotions that I announce my departure as AWARE’s Executive Director effective June 28, 2024. It has been my absolute honor to serve as executive director for nine years. I cherish every connection and exchange I have had with each of you and am extremely proud of what we have accomplished together.
In 2023 alone, AWARE provided:
- 5,286 nights of shelter to 114 adults, and 66 children;
- 553 individual counseling or support groups sessions to 96 survivors;
- 187 survivors with assistance through the courts or during medical exams after a sexual assault;
- 958 survivors with support through our 24-hour helpline.
What is next for me? I have taken a position as Project Manager with the Division of Victims Services where I will participate in quality assurance, contract and standards monitoring, and special projects. This position provides a wonderful opportunity for me to employ my visioning and strategic planning skills to the statewide level.
I am working with the AWARE Board of Directors in planning for this transition. Rest assured, AWARE has an incredibly talented and dedicated staff that will continue to deliver meaningful services and ensure no disruption in day-to-day operations.
In the interim, please feel free to contact Terry Langston, Board President, at Tslang4504@me.com or Sequita Brown, AWARE Deputy Director, at (517) 783-1638, ext. 124 or sbrown@awareshelter.org should you have questions.
I will continue to live in Jackson and look forward to seeing you around this wonderful community. Thank you for a supportive and rewarding nine years.
Sincerely,
Angelita Velasco Gunn
AWARE Executive Director