We're Thankful for Our Community!

During this season of gratitude, we at SURVIVORS reflect on the strength and resilience of the individuals we serve, as well as the unwavering support from compassionate hearts like yours. In the face of unimaginable challenges, survivors of torture demonstrate extraordinary courage every day. Your commitment to our mission plays a vital role in helping them rebuild their lives, restore their dignity, and find hope in the midst of adversity.

As we pause to give thanks, we also acknowledge the challenges that persist in our world. Your continued support is crucial as we strive to expand our reach, increase awareness, and advocate for policies that protect the rights of survivors worldwide.

Wishing you and your loved ones a fall holiday season filled with peace, warmth, and the joy that comes from knowing you are making a positive impact on the lives of survivors.

Gathering For Good! Highlights from our 2023 Helping Survivors Heal Luncheon

In September, SURVIVORS hosted our first in-person luncheon since 2019. We welcomed over 200 guests, and the room was filled with conversation, smiles, and shared compassion for SURVIVORS' mission and clients. The event's theme, "Honoring Our Legacy, Paving Our Future" recognized the last 26 years of fulfilling our mission while also sharing our vision moving forward.

Tears were shed and the power of healing was felt by all attendees who had the privilege of hearing personal stories directly from three SURVIVORS clients.

Lastly, we honored individuals in our community who encompass our work and bring our mission to life through our first-ever "Kathi Anderson Legacy Honors," a tribute to our forever-inspiring Founder and former Executive Director. Our three recipients included Former Congresswoman Susan Davis, long-time SURVIVORS supporter and medical evaluator Dr. George Longstreth, and our first client family.

Healing Club's Pumpkin Therapy: Transforming Trauma into Artful Resilience

Clients were invited to participate in our October Healing Club featuring pumpkin painting, snacks, refreshments, and conversation.

Why art therapy matters: Art and creation provide a powerful avenue for individuals to navigate the intricate path of overcoming trauma. The act of creating offers a tangible and empowering way to reclaim control, enabling survivors to shape their narratives and transform pain into something beautiful. Art allows for a cathartic release, helping individuals process complex emotions, foster self-discovery, and ultimately embark on a journey of healing.

SURVIVORS' Executive Director Etleva Bejko was featured as a panelist alongside the San Diego Refugee Communities Coalition during Live Well San Diego's 2023 Advance Conference and School Summit.

Panelists spoke about the unique challenges faced by refugees, asylum seekers and survivors of torture and introduced resources to address these challenges. SURVIVORS is grateful for the opportunity to help build a welcoming community alongside our partners here in San Diego County.

Out & About With SURVIVORS!

This fall, the SURVIVORS team had the opportunity to participate in a multitude of community events. From left to right: Welcome Newcomer Network's Multicultural Festival, El Cajon Valley Resource Fair, Casa Cornelia Law Center's 30th Anniversary Celebration & 16th Annual La Mancha Awards, La Maestra Community Health Center's Fiesta Hispana 2023, Somali Family Service's Day of Dignity, and Anza Elementary School "Back to School Bash".

Explore the World Through Words:

Join SURVIVORS' Beyond Borders Book Club

Introducing SURVIVORS' Beyond Borders Book Club! Join us as we read and discuss books that highlight important themes and touch upon the lived experiences of our clients.

Our first selection is Solito by Javier Zamora, a memoir about Zamora's harrowing journey from El Salvador to the United States at the age of nine to reunite with his parents.

Reserve your spot using the form linked below. Our first meeting will be held in January of 2024. We hope to see you there!

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PO Box 151240
San Diego, CA | 92175 US

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