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December 1, 2025

9 Things We’re Grateful For This Year

by Ms. Foundation

As we look back on our year, we’re taking the space to reflect on what we’re grateful for. 2025 brought both profound challenges and profound triumphs in the movements for gender and racial justice, and we at Ms. Foundation found joy and power in community, in laughter, in rest, and in struggle.

We asked staff from across the Foundation to share what they’re grateful for–here’s what they said:

I am so grateful for my grandmothers who passed on their cooking skills and took the time to share recipes. As someone who lives far from their hometown, it’s the best way to feel close to my loved ones and my culture and share it with my chosen family in New York.”

Alanis Alvarez, Designer and Brand Coordinator 




I am grateful for all the levity and warmth my loved ones bring to my life. I’m grateful for all those in our industry working to create a more just world.”

Tessanella DeFrisco, Office Manager 




I am grateful for the poetic beauty readily found in community, nature, and food.”  

Bri Barnett, Director of Development




I am grateful for those moments when we see democracy doing what it is supposed to do and a new generation of leadership steps into power, when whole communities stand up together for the change they urgently need, and when all the little kids in the world (and many of the big ones) sing the same song about fearless, women of color demon hunters.”

Ruth McFarlane, Deputy CEO 




I am grateful for the incredible opportunities where I learn, grow and connect with such amazing people. Each shared experience and invaluable lesson helps me become a better version of myself.”

Sandra Isiofiah-Elaiho, Human Resources Manager




I’m grateful for family, friends, love, and laughter.”

Alaya Gaddy, Grants Administrator

I’m grateful for my family and the closeness we’ve found through a very tough year, and I’m grateful for the wonderful colleagues I get to work with every day.”

Aime Patrick, Donor Relations Assistant

I’m grateful for the people showing up day after to day to fight on behalf of our democracy, and especially those working tirelessly across the country to keep abortion safe and accessible for all.”

Elaine Hunt, Communications Manager

I’m thankful for meaningful conversations and connections, shared laughter, and small acts of love like my pup cuddling me that make my days better.”

Calondra McArthur, Director of Communications