From the desk of Kelli Cary, CEO
Dear Friend,
Moving to Nashville around the holidays has given me the opportunity to spend quality time with staff, survivors, and community members. Thanks to the End Slavery Tennessee (ESTN) team, I have learned the top places to see lights, gained ideas for new family traditions, and searched the city for the best cup of coffee.
As I reflect on my first month at ESTN, I'm filled with joyful expectation thinking of all that we'll accomplish together. This is a season of new beginnings, not only for me and my family, but for so many survivors who will soon experience the feeling of hope for the very first time.
In the 28 days since I started as CEO, we've received 39 crisis calls from survivors and community members. As we've celebrated Christmas, navigated power outages, and shared holiday meals, 39 survivors have reached out—looking for hope. Because of your support, we've been able to answer every call.
In 2022, ESTN’s crisis call and referral rate has skyrocketed. As of December 28th, we’ve received 340 calls, compared to 243 at this time last year—a 40% increase. I feel both grief and gratitude when I think of the increase in calls and referrals ESTN has experienced this year. This year, we’ve seen the largest need for services AND we’ve seen the largest opportunity to help. The seasons ahead may seem uncertain for survivors who make the courageous decision to reclaim their lives. But at ESTN, there’s someone who cares and will do everything in their power to help.
We all have a purpose and a role in this mission to ease suffering for those who are most vulnerable. Will you join us in making a year-end gift to ensure that there will always be someone there to answer that call?
Today through December 31st—thanks to generous matching donors—your impact is DOUBLED up to $39,000!
Kelli Cary
Chief Executive Officer
End Slavery Tennessee