Meet Claudette Ndayininahaze,
Executive Director of In Her Presence
“Furniture Friends has made a lasting impact on the lives of the women and families we serve, helping them create safe and welcoming homes that foster stability and growth. I will never forget one mother’s joy as she arranged her new furniture with her children, their laughter filling the room—a simple moment that reflected hope, comfort, and belonging. Their commitment also extends to their immigrant staff, who have grown in confidence and leadership through IHP’s English and leadership classes, strengthening both families and community.”
We are delighted to introduce our long-time friend and partner, Claudette Ndayininahaze. Claudette leads In Her Presence, a Portland based organization empowering immigrant women and their families. Read our interview with Claudette below to learn more about how Furniture Friends supports her and her team!
How has Furniture Friends impacted your clients’ lives overall?
Furniture Friends has profoundly improved the lives of the women and families we serve by helping them create safe, comfortable, and welcoming homes. Having a furnished space gives our participants a sense of stability, dignity, and belonging, which is foundational for their well-being and successful integration.
Can you share any examples/anecdotes?
I will never forget one mother receiving furniture for her apartment; the joy on her face as she arranged the new pieces with her children was unforgettable. That moment of excitement and pride brought laughter and warmth into their home, reinforcing their sense of safety and hope for the future.
In what ways has our work supported your ability to serve clients more effectively?
Furniture Friends’ support allows us to focus on holistic care. By ensuring that families have basic furnishings, we can dedicate more energy to coaching, education, and skill-building, knowing that participants’ immediate household needs are met.
How would you describe your experience collaborating with us?
Working with Furniture Friends has been a true partnership. Their team is responsive, compassionate, and committed to our shared mission of uplifting immigrant families. Collaboration feels seamless, grounded in mutual respect, and a deep understanding of community needs.
What positive changes/impact have you and your team observed in clients who have received our services?
Clients consistently report feeling more secure, confident, and motivated when they have a furnished home. We have observed increased engagement in our English, leadership, and employment classes among those who have received support, as they are able to focus on growth rather than immediate survival needs.
What value do you see Furniture Friends bringing to this community?
Furniture Friends strengthens families, nurtures stability, and cultivates joy and dignity for individuals who are navigating the challenges of resettlement. Beyond providing furniture, they invest in the community’s future by empowering both the families and immigrant staff we work with, fostering resilience, belonging, and opportunity.
Please consider making a one-time or recurring gift this holiday season in support of our work.
Your generous gift helps ensure that we can continue partnering with local organization to provide
essential furniture to our neighbors free of charge.