Introducing Ruth Woods Dunham

	Ruth Woods Dunham, On The Rise's new Executive Director

he Board of Directors is very excited to announce the appointment of Ruth Woods Dunham as the new Executive Director. With over fifteen years of commitment and leadership in the field of social services and domestic violence, Ruth brings deep passion and experience to her new position.

Ruth succeeds On The Rise’s Founder, Katya Fels, who ended her tenure after eleven years as Executive Director. “Ruth is a long-time ally to On The Rise,” said Katya, “She shares in the commitment to social justice for marginalized women by influencing policy, implementing theory, and supporting individuals struggling to survive the impact of poverty, homelessness and abuse. Ruth's experience and passion make her a natural fit for this position, and I look forward to seeing what new directions she forges for On The Rise."

Ruth was formerly the Director of Education, Clinical and Community-based Services at Casa Myrna Vasquez, a Boston-based domestic violence organization. She oversaw the 24/7 domestic violence hotline, "SafeLink" and managed programs to help women move into permanent independent housing and become economically self-sufficient.

Ruth has also worked as a Senior Housing Development Officer for Supportive Housing at the City of Boston's Department of Neighborhood Development and as the Associate Executive Director of Programs at REACH, a domestic violence agency in Waltham, MA. While at REACH, Ruth was the founder of the HOPE Project, a program to educate community and service providers about the intersection of domestic violence and prostitution.

"On The Rise is a truly unique and effective program, and Ruth brings the perfect combination of programmatic experience, managerial expertise, and big-picture vision to lead this important community organization," said Carol Goss, Chair of the Search Committee and President of the Board of Directors. "The Board of Directors is thrilled to have appointed her and warmly welcomes her to the team."

Ruth holds a Masters Degree in Management from Cambridge College, and serves on the Homes for Families Public Policy Committee, and the GBLTDV Coalition. To contact Ruth, email Ruth.WoodsDunham@ontherise.org or call (617) 497-7968 x14.