Meet the Team

Executive Director

Raquel Bates is a community organizer with more than 15 years of experience advancing social justice and driving systems-level change. Her work is rooted in equity-centered leadership, organizational management, strategic planning, and resource development, with a focus on building sustainable solutions that reflect the needs and voices of communities most impacted by systemic barriers.

Raquel serves on the Advisory Council of the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence and was previously appointed to the New York City Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee. She has also served on several domestic violence task forces and coalitions working to advance survivor-centered policy reform. Raquel has played a key role in efforts that successfully advanced policies such as the New York City Paid Sick Leave Act, Confidential Voter Registration protections for survivors, and the Coerced Debt Law.

Prior to her work at VOW, Raquel held senior leadership roles in the breast cancer advocacy and fundraising sectors. In these positions, she strengthened organizational infrastructure, led resource development strategies, and supported community-centered initiatives that expanded access to critical services and supports. Her cross-sector experience informs her ability to navigate complex systems and build collaborative partnerships that center dignity and equity.

Raquel is deeply committed to elevating the leadership of individuals with lived experience and ensuring that policies and programs are responsive, inclusive, and sustainable. Known for her strategic vision and results-driven approach, she continues to champion community-driven solutions that address homelessness, systems navigation, and survivor-centered reform—working to create equitable pathways to safety, stability, and opportunity.