Happy International Women's Day From RTSV!

March is Women's History Month and to celebrate International Women's Day (March 8th), we asked the leading ladies of RTSV what they think matters the most about their work at Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley. Read through to see what they said:

Executive Director Deanne Everton says, "As Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley (RTSV), two things come to mind in relation to International Women’s Day. Here at RTSV, I have always been supported as a woman in leadership—even in a construction-related field, and given opportunities to grow professionally. I try to offer that same support and encouragement to all the women (and men) on our staff. Secondly, I am proud of the work we do for all of our older adult clients, but today I think especially of the women we assist. As they age, they have often been overlooked and underserved. Our work not only brightens their home, but it gives them renewed hope and a sense of belonging that they deserve. Today, may we all be reminded how important it is to support one another."

Denise Tsang, RTSV's Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator says, "One of my favorite things about working with RTSV is that I get to meet all kinds of people and not only hear their story, but also get to be a part of it. I love that we get to contribute to something as meaningful and sacred as someone’s home.”

Donya Bishop, RTSV's AmeriCorps Client Services Coordinator says, “Serving at RTSV has allowed me to feel heard, and empowered. Being surrounded by strong women with a passion for helping others has given me invaluable experience. It has re-enforced in me that women in construction are strong, capable, and powerful.”

Maureen Mellon, RTSV's Board Secretary says, "I feel so lucky to be part of the Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley team and having a chance to make such a difference in people’s lives. As I member of the Board and a volunteer, I get to partner with others who are committed to helping their neighbors in need - many seniors, disabled and veterans. It is always so great to see the homeowner’s big smile, and hear the many thanks, at the end of a Rebuilding Day. As we were leaving the mobile home of an elderly woman at our Fall 2021 Rebuilding Day, I remember seeing her holding her dog, waving and saying thank you, thank you, so much!!"

Tulika Garg, a Board Member of RTSV says, "Growing up, I was fortunate to receive the support and guidance of my parents, teachers, friends and siblings as I was navigating the challenges of a patriarchal society. Their giving attitude transformed my life, set me on a path of success and made me a strong believer in giving. Working with RTSV is my way of giving back to our community and of making an impact in the lives of others, as once someone did for me."

Shama Saleem, RTSV's Development and Communications Coordinator says, “One of my favorite parts of working at RTSV is seeing how we’ve prioritized DEI in our programs. As a WPOC, I know that my voice has a place at RTSV and to feel that my perspective has value is not something that I’ve always experienced. I’m so thankful to be a part of the RTSV team. We are all connected by our mission as we support our most vulnerable community members, but the best part is seeing the impact we make firsthand when we get a thank you note from a homeowner.”

Vidhi Bhandari, RTSV's Finance and Grants Associate says, "What I like about working at RTSV is we truly make a difference in the lives of people in need."

Board Chair Emily Ransone says, "As a woman-led team at RTSV, Deanne Everton embodies the energy of making a real impact in our community with her drive and commitment to the mission of helping keep people safe in their homes. I’m proud to work with her and her talented team."

We are so proud of the women that represent RTSV for leading the way in nonprofit work that addresses the Silicon Valley housing crisis and preserves affordable housing. Happy International Women's Day from all of us at RTSV!