We are thrilled to announce that Elizabeth Hodges has joined REST as our new Chief Executive Officer, effective September 23, 2024! Elizabeth brings with her a wealth of experience, passion, and a deep commitment to supporting survivors of sex trafficking, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her lead us into this next chapter.
With over 20 years of nonprofit leadership focused on empowering communities facing social and economic barriers, Elizabeth’s dedication to making a positive impact is truly inspiring. Throughout her
career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering organizational growth and creating innovative programs that uplift vulnerable populations. Her vision and expertise align perfectly with REST’s mission of expanding pathways to freedom, safety, and hope in order to end sex trafficking.
“We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth as the new leader of REST,” said Board President Brent Turner. “Her passion for helping survivors heal and her experience in uplifting marginalized communities will be invaluable as REST continues to expand its impact and deepen its support for survivors in the community.”
Elizabeth’s impressive background includes serving as State Director for Communities In Schools of Washington and Executive Director for Communities In Schools of Seattle, where she worked tirelessly to close the education equity gap for youth furthest from educational justice. She was also the inaugural Director of Youth & Family Empowerment at Goodwill of the Olympics & Rainier Region, where she implemented a pilot program called Women 2 Work, aimed at supporting unemployed and underemployed single mothers and their children as part of a national two-generation poverty prevention initiative. Additionally, she led as the Greater Seattle Executive Director of Techbridge Girls, an award-winning national STEM nonprofit focused on girls attending high-needs schools, and was the founding Program Director of YWCA GirlsFirst, a leadership and life skills program for teen girls of color.
Elizabeth grew up in South Seattle and is a proud alumni of Seattle Public Schools. She is also an HBCU grad, earning her Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Art from Clark Atlanta University. Her dedication to the community extends beyond her professional career, as she actively supports local youth arts programming as the Vice Chair and Treasurer of the Urban ArtWorks Board of Directors. When she’s not working or volunteering, Elizabeth enjoys exploring new restaurants, discovering local coffee shops, and appreciating public art with her husband.
"I am honored to join REST and support survivors of sex trafficking, some of the most vulnerable members of our society,” said Elizabeth. “Walking beside them on their healing journey and providing resources as they rebuild their lives is deeply meaningful to me. I’m excited to build on REST’s legacy and work alongside our partners, donors, and supporters to create lasting change in our community.”
Under Elizabeth’s leadership, REST will continue to provide critical services such as emergency housing, counseling, and long-term recovery support for individuals who have experienced sex trafficking. Her vision for REST is clear: to expand our impact, strengthen our programs, and deepen our support for survivors on their healing journeys.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Elizabeth to the REST family! We are excited for the future and the positive changes she will bring as we continue our mission to provide freedom, safety, and hope for all survivors. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to meet Elizabeth as we embark on this new chapter together!