Meet Aparna Harris | Development Director at Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aparna Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aparna, what do you want your legacy to be?
I want people to rememeber my loyalty to family and friends and trying to make this world a better place. Most importantly, for my children, I would like to leave the legacy of giving back to the community, which I am able to do with my work at SPAN, helping survivors of Domestic violence and their families. I would love for my legacy to be shrouded in positivity and light, and also with strength and resilience. I want to represent being brave and compassionate.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the Development Director at a nonprofit called, Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence. We help survivors of domestoc violence annd their families attain safety, security and stability, particularly in marginalized communities. I have been here for 9 years and love my job, as my goal is to consistently try to help those who may not have a voice. My challenge is the same as many nonprofits, and that is the fundraising aspect of my job. Asking for money and educating people on why our cause is so important to the entire community can sometimes fall on deaf ears. But it is also good to know there are so many kind, and generous folks, many who have been touched by domestic violence, who continue to be long term supporters.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love Boulder, Colorado! I would take them on a hike on the Sanitas trail, and then happy hour at Carelli’s Italian Restaurant! Pearl Street Mall is always a great place to take newcomers as well. Boulder is rich with culture while being surrounded by our beautiful mountains, so a hike is a must. You also get an amazing view of the Flatirons from the patio from Avanti on Pearl. And last, but not least, I would show them around my place of work at SPAN, so they can see how important the work is that we do in the community.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate this article to my parents, Satch and Bhuvana Desai, who have always had my back and encouraged me to do anything that makes me happy, especially if it is for the greater good. They are long time donors of SPAN and avid supporters of my work. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unconditional love. They have been great role models in every aspect of life, especially with giving back to those who need assistance.

Website: www.safehousealliance.org

Instagram: @FollowSPAN_Boulder

Linkedin: @Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence

Twitter: @FollowSPAN

Facebook: @FollowSPAN