One daughter with a dream - One mother with a vision. This was the beginning of what would turn out to be later known as the “I Have a Dream Makeover” of the AVA domestic violence shelter. As a case manager at the shelter, I witnessed the devastating impact of domestic violence on families and the ultimate state of crisis present when mothers and children would enter our facility. One especially stressful Saturday at the shelter, I was notified of a client who did not return to the shelter because of a suicide attempt. It was then that I came to a deeper understanding of how the challenges do not simply end once they leave their abusive relationships. Rather, they face additional struggles once they reach the shelter and while working towards that point where they can get on with their lives.

The following day, Sunday, my mother (Clarita) and I went to church and I told her of the condition of the shelter: Tattered and worn, but a safe place. I wished for something more for these families who turn to us in their despair. Clarita heard my cry for help and this is where the “I Have a Dream Makeover” began.

My dream of what could be for the shelter became a reality once Clarita began making this vision tangible. As a well known interior designer in the Tucson community, Clarita formulated a plan to make this “makeover” happen. This was going to be no small venture – it was a design for a total shelter renovation, a consoling “home environment” these women could come to in their time of need. Clarita’s drive, passion, and dedication would stop at nothing less then making this shelter a place of comfort, peace, and empowerment.

Utilizing the generosity of countless vendors in the community, a multitude of volunteers, and a driven team of AVA staff members, Clarita planned and organized the makeover for several months before it was implemented Martin Luther King Jr. weekend of 2005. The experience of being a part of the makeover impacted everyone involved; in particular, the staff that devoted incalculable hours into preparation and helping put this makeover into action. Painting, packing, organizing, moving, lifting, cleaning, refurbishing furniture – the list goes on and on. This was a highly motivated group of women who joined with Clarita in their purpose: To make AVA a better place for all. What we didn’t realize at the time, we were making it a better place for us as well. And the lessons we learned working as a cohesive team forged bonds of friendship that remain in our hearts today.

Karen Orr, the AVA shelter director at the time of the makeover reflected on her experience: “The AVA ‘I Have a Dream’ makeover gave me strength and reinforced my belief in helping others. Working with such inspirational people infused motivation that helped to lift spirits, restore confidence and ignite creative energy. Personally and professionally, the renovation project taught me that with determination and commitment any goal can be accomplished.”

Heather Truschel, a previous AVA case manager, stated: “The AVA ‘I Have a Dream’ makeover was an amazing experience for me. I can remember coming home one night from working all day on the makeover and just crying. I cried partly because I was physically exhausted, but mostly because I was so moved by Clarita’s dream and by all of the donations and all the volunteers’ labor to help victims of domestic violence feel safe and dignified. It is something that I will remember forever and am so proud to have been a part of. It proves that one person can make a difference, because Clarita did just that.”

Rebecca Durante, another previous AVA case manager tells of her recollections of the makeover: “As an overnighter, I found the whole experience very surreal.  I was unable to participate in the actual construction process, but each night when I came in there was a new transformation that had taken place that day.  It was amazing!  I could not believe the way so many people came together to give our shelter its face lift.  This amazing group of women, spearheaded by Clarita, put their hearts and souls into making AVA a place of dignity and respect.  I have never worked with such a strong, fine group of women. And I dare say that I never will again.  I feel honored to be part of and bear witness to such a remarkable event!”

Shannon Smith, a current AVA case manager and a part of the AVA makeover team reflected: “The AVA makeover was so much more to me than just changing the appearance of a shelter. Every paint stroke, every nail hammered, every blind hung was done so with the intention of bettering not only a building but changing the lives of the many women and children who enter through it. I feel so honored to have been a part of team that worked amazingly together. I have had many jobs but the group of ladies that I worked with at AVA was very special and I am so impressed with the compassion and the strength that each of these women possess. Thanks so much to Clarita for allowing us this opportunity and for helping me to see the amazing women whom I worked with and to see their hearts. It was something that I will never forget and will always cherish as a unique and special memory!”

Beyond the experiences of the staff, the women and children who resided at AVA before and after the makeover process showed the true impact the renovations had on them. Upon their return to the shelter after the makeover was complete, the AVA staff members left a new stuffed animal and doll for each child on their bed as a “welcome home” gift. I remember one child telling his mom: “This is like Christmas!” And it truly was.

My experience with the AVA makeover was no different than the words shared by my former coworkers. But in addition, it showed me the power of a mother/daughter team and what can happen with that kind of partnership, backed by love, faith, and spirit. My mother is my hero and the AVA makeover was just one more example of the inspiration she provides to me each and every day.


If you would like to learn more about domestic violence, the AVA shelter or any of the other programs of Tucson Centers for Women and Children, please visit their website at: www.tucsoncenters.com
In Your Own Words

Written by

Jessica Jordan

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