From Darkness to Light: Reflections on an Unprecedented Year
As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on what has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging yet rewarding years in our organization’s history. 2024 tested us in ways we could never have imagined, but here we are, poised to enter 2025 stronger than ever. And I owe it all to you — our incredible supporters, our dedicated team and board, and, of course, the resilient survivors we serve.
As you may know, we faced the very real possibility of closing our doors. But there were bigger plans for us. Plans that I never could have imagined.
On the same day that our board voted to either merge with another organization or cease operations, I received a call from the LA Tribune informing me that Callisto had won Impact Organization of the Year. Through tears, I explained that we couldn’t accept the award because we were ceasing operations. On the other end of the line, the voice I heard was filled with hope, grit, and determination. She understood how revolutionary our technology is, and she refused to let us give up. This became a theme of the next two months — Great adversity met with unwavering resilience.
Telling our small but mighty team that they would all be laid off was the most difficult part. Yet, despite the heartbreaking news, they were resolute in their desire to fight. They saw what the LA Tribune had recognized — the undeniable impact of our work. I wasn’t sure I had any fight left in me, but I knew that if any team could create a miracle, it was this one.
Great adversity met with unwavering resilience.
In the days that followed, there were countless sleepless nights. I questioned whether we could keep going, wondering how we could overcome each new hurdle. But each day, I witnessed something that kept me going — the unwavering determination of the people we serve and the generosity of those who believe in our mission.
Hope turned into action. Our team was deeply humbled by your incredible support. Donations, both small and large, came in from every corner, reminding us that together, we are far stronger than we could ever be alone — and that’s exactly the purpose of Callisto. When everything seemed impossible, it was your commitment to our mission that kept us afloat. You gave us hope when it felt like there was no way forward, and your support became the lifeline we so desperately needed.
I also saw the heart and soul of our organization — my passionate and hardworking team, who showed up every day with determination, despite the odds. Many times through this crisis, I have questioned my leadership. Yet, my team has been my rock, working tirelessly to ensure that survivors continue to have access to this crucial resource. Their dedication has been nothing short of inspiring, and I am endlessly grateful for their resilience and unwavering commitment.
With the support of Arnold Ventures and all of YOU, we found our miracle.
As we look toward 2025, we are more determined than ever to continue our work with renewed focus and strength. With the new administration, we know there will be additional challenges ahead — including the possibility of changes to Title IX and a shifting landscape that may leave survivors with even fewer resources on campus. But these challenges only underscore the urgent need for a solution like Callisto.
But we can’t do it without you. As we close out this year, I ask you to consider making an end-of-year donation to ensure that we start the new year with the resources and momentum we need to continue our vital work.
Your support — whether through donations, volunteer hours, or simply spreading the word — makes all the difference. Together, we are a community stronger than any challenge we may face, and I truly believe we are just getting started.
Thank you for being part of our journey, for helping us transform what could have been an insurmountable year into a testament to perseverance and collective action. Here’s to a brighter, stronger 2025.
With Deepest Gratitude,
CEO, Callisto