Staff Spotlight: Rachel Cornelius
Staff Spotlight
Rachel Cornelius, Our Program Director
Featured in Her Safe Haven's 2nd Year Anniversary Newsletter
As we celebrate two years of serving survivors of trafficking in Pittsburgh, we are honored to spotlight a leader whose heart, vision, and tireless dedication helped make it all possible: Rachel Cornelius, our Program Director.
Q: What first brought you to Her Safe Haven?
A: Before joining Her Safe Haven, I worked as a Clinical Director in a youth residential program, where I first encountered child sexual exploitation. That experience sparked my passion for trafficking prevention. When I learned Her Safe Haven was opening a Safe House in Pittsburgh and needed a Program Director, I knew it was the right next step.
Q: What was your role like in those early days?
A: Honestly, everything! We were building from the ground up—raising awareness, developing a trauma-informed curriculum for survivors, and helping fundraise so we could open our doors.
Q: Do you have a memory that stands out from your first few weeks?
A: Yes—how serene and peaceful I felt in the house. That feeling really stayed with me and reminded me of the safe, healing space we were creating for the women we would serve.
Q: How has your perspective on the work changed over time?
A: It continues to evolve with every woman we serve. Survivors often teach me more than I could ever teach them, which I find incredibly beautiful.
Q: What were some of the biggest challenges in the first year?
A: Fundraising was a huge challenge—especially when paired with navigating countless roadblocks and trying to build awareness for an issue that, by its nature, requires a high level of privacy and protection.
Q: What were the earliest signs that your work was making a difference?
A: When our first residents completed the program and gave us encouraging feedback. It validated our efforts and confirmed we were on the right path.
Q: How did you and your team define success in the beginning?
A: Success, in those early stages, meant forming new partnerships and getting the word out in Pittsburgh. Laying the foundation was the first big win.
Q: What’s something you’ve learned from the women in your program?
A: What haven’t I learned? Every survivor brings her own unique story, strength, and perspective. I’ve been truly blessed to build relationships with these women and learn from each of them.
Q: What new programs or initiatives have been introduced recently?
A: We’ve recently added a licensed counselor who is also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. This is a significant step in integrating trauma recovery with addiction support.
Q: What’s one dream you hold for the women you serve?
A: That they continue to heal and find peace—and ultimately become the best version of themselves. That’s my greatest hope for each of them.
Q: What’s something exciting happening right now?
A: We’ve expanded our space and staff, allowing us to serve up to 10 women at a time. We’ve also partnered with addiction medicine providers, which is very exciting.
Q: How can people in the community get involved?
A: There are so many ways to help—donate, volunteer, or simply spread awareness. Every bit of support helps change lives.
Q: If you could say one thing to every supporter, what would it be?
A: Thank you. We truly could not do this work without you. Your support has been instrumental in everything we've accomplished these past two years.
