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Why She Serves– By Nannette Ricaforte

Today's post comes from our dear friend and catalyst, Nannette Ricaforte. Nannette has been an integral part of My Refuge House from the time it was a dream, until now, and continues to offer her time and resources (she's an incredible photographer!)…
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I Used To Be So Strong.

As someone who has worked with survivors of abuse for over ten years, I've always considered myself fairly capable of separating work stress with the rest of life. Compartmentalizing, if you will. People often say to me "I don't know how…
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FCBC Youth Choir

A couple of weeks ago, the First Chinese Baptist Church Youth and Children's Choirs preformed an incredible show. The Saturday afternoon started with  the high school youth choir preforming ... voices blended together in amazing harmony. Then…
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I am a Survivor

Sometimes, many times, those who are victimized feel some sense of guilt for what has happened to them. As if they were responsible for their own abuse. As if they had brought it on themselves. Let's get something straight: At My Refuge…
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Define a Hero

Yesterday, I had the privilege of being in the studio audience of CNN's annual Heroes show. There is something inspiring and humbling about attending a production that's sole purpose is to honor and recognize heroic individuals all around…
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The Quilt

A group of high school students the same age as the survivors in our home (13-18), organized by the Skirball Cultural Center, wanted to make something that would represent their support, wishes and encouragement for the girls in our home. This…