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Michele began her career at Bethany House in 1997 when a friend and work colleague, who volunteered with the organization, encouraged her to apply for the open Executive Director position.
After four years of tireless service, Michele passed the torch to a new Executive Director and stayed on to assist with the transition. Her new administrative support role worked out so well that she’s still with us 27 years later and is our longest-tenured staff member.
Prior to serving as Executive Director, Michele was a social worker and mental health counselor. That background helped her formalize systems and processes at Bethany House, laying the foundation for our operational structure today.
Since then, Michele has continued to ensure that Bethany House policies and procedures meet best practice standards and helped the organization stay ahead of the curve as new standards develop.
My commitment to victims of domestic violence may have begun as an aspect of my job, but it quickly grew into a deep sense of empathy and responsibility to support those who feel isolated and powerless.
In my work as a mental health therapist, I found that listening, validating experiences, and empowering people to take control could make a significant difference. That’s not only a critical part of the healing journey for survivors of domestic violence, it’s also an effective means of supporting the staff of Bethany House who do the heavy work of direct service.
Statistics indicate a significant decrease in the incidences of domestic violence. Positive steps have been made to consider DV a public health concern as opposed to being seen as merely a family matter. I believe less victim blaming occurs, services offered are more inclusive, and prevention efforts have resulted in heightened awareness.
Yet, the need for services has increased. The numbers never tell the whole story, and they mean nothing to the individual victims struggling to find safety and peace.
Sponsored Ministry of the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio
Member of the Sylvania Franciscan Ministries