The Santa Barbara Woman’s Club will host Kerri Murray, president of ShelterBox USA, on October 22 for a keynote address exploring the extraordinary resilience of women living through disaster and conflict, and how local and global communities can help families rebuild their lives.
“We have an incredibly engaged community,” Murray said. “We live in a place that knows disaster firsthand, from wildfires to the 2018 Montecito debris flow. That perspective reminds us that recovery begins with shelter and with people who care.”
It’s this shared understanding that fuels her belief that local action can drive global impact.
“We have an opportunity to build greater awareness of global displacement, which I truly believe is one of the most pressing issues facing our planet,” Murray said.
Today, more than 123 million people have been forced from their homes worldwide. Most are women and children, many of whom will remain displaced for more than a decade. For Murray, they are at the heart of ShelterBox’s mission.
“What I care about most is helping those who suffer disproportionately,” she explained. “In times of crisis, women and girls face far greater risks, sexual violence, exploitation, and loss of access to income, education, or healthcare.”
Through ShelterBox, Murray and her team translate these urgent needs into tangible action, providing emergency shelter and essential items like tents, repair kits, solar lights, cookware, and water filters. More than just aid, it’s the foundation for recovery and resilience.
“Empowering women after disaster is essential to lasting recovery,” she said. “ShelterBox doesn’t just provide shelter, we provide the tools, training, and resources families need to rebuild their lives and their communities.”
Murray’s message echoes throughout ShelterBox’s annual International Women’s Day Event, which shines a light on the resilience of women worldwide. This year’s program featured State Senator Monique Limón, poised to become the first woman of color to lead the California Senate in 2026, and Los Angeles County Fire Captain Sheila Kelliher, both sharing inspiring stories of leadership and courage.
Drawing from her own field experiences, from Ukraine and Poland after the Russian invasion, to Morocco following the 2023 earthquake, and Grenada after Hurricane Beryl, Murray has witnessed the power of women at the center of community recovery.
“In my 10 years leading ShelterBox USA, I’ve seen the extraordinary power of women—from those rebuilding their lives after disaster to the women in our own community who unite to create lasting change,” Murray said. “It’s an honor to speak at the Santa Barbara Woman’s Club and share stories of courage, resilience, and the impact women can have when we lift one another up.”
Her closing message is simple yet powerful:
“Everyone has something to contribute to making the world a better place. Whether it’s your time, your talent, or your resources, everyone can play a part. Find something you care about, get behind it, and help make an impact.”
· Who: Kerri Murray, President ShelterBox USA
· When: 2 p.m., Wednesday, October. 22
· Where: Santa Barbara Woman’s Club, 670 Mission Canyon Road, Santa Barbara 93105.
While the event is free, reservations are essential, please call 805 682 4545 or email [email protected]
