
FOR ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICIALS
Your Power. Your Impact. Your Journey.
Our mission is to center and invest in womxn of color and their allies on democracy’s frontlines, shifting leadership systems from sacrifice to longevity. The RD seeks to fill the void in investment in these communities while addressing institutional barriers stifling womxn's transformational power. When we are safe, resourced, and empowered, transformation is possible.

WE GOT YOUR BACK
Regardless of where you are in the democracy space, we've got something for you.
The RDP is your ride-or-die friend. We invite you to put down your armor, connect with like-minded womxn, and level up through restorative programming curated by former elected official and social worker Raquel Castañeda-López. You'll be seen, safe, and cared for.
We know democracy's heroines can't do it alone.
Join our exclusive community for staff, government employees, and democracy allies. You'll amplify your impact through restorative coaching, masterclasses, and a nurturing community. Whether you're a chief of staff, a non-profit ED, or a department employee in the trenches, we got you!
From workshop facilitation and strategic planning to equitable outreach and team building, Raquel has over 20 years of experience in facilitation and coaching. Contact us to learn more about our customized programming.

WHY RESTORATIVE DEMOCRACY?
Our government was not built for people like us. That’s why we must be intentional about investing in the courageous womxn of color stepping up to lead. With access to resources, training, and continuous support, these leaders will propose more groundbreaking laws, pursue re-election, aspire to higher positions and change lives in their communities.
By investing in these inspiring womxn, we will witness the transformative impact they will have on our democracy.




The TOLL We PAY
More womxn and womxn of color (WOC) are being recruited to run, and they’re stepping up to the challenge of transforming our democratic landscape. However, little support exists for these sheroes once they enter public office. Throughout their campaigns and beyond, they encounter increased scrutiny and safety threats compared to their white female and male counterparts. It's inspiring to see more womxn of color (WOC) running for public office. We want to change the face of democracy, right? However, even upon winning, they face criticism from both allies and adversaries without comprehensive support from those who urged them to serve. Yet these WOCs do not waiver in their commitment to protect their residents & our democracy, sacrificing themselves in service of US. We will never truly know the potential impact, policies, or transformations to our democracy these sheroes could make without investing in their success and well-being.

Samiya Abdi
Social Impact Leader and Consultant
“Raquel is extremely skilled in creating impactful safe spaces where racialized women feel valued and can be their authentic selves. I have witnessed her guide leaders as they navigate difficult work and personal relationships with compassion, asking the right questions to help unpack the root causes of life's challenges. ”

Shannon
Coaching Client
“Raquel asked really great questions, I learnt a lot about something I didn’t even realize was the trigger for my irritation, frustration & avoidance. Raquel is a natural at exploring the story. Had some big things come up - that I had no idea were actually sitting there.
Thank you!”

Gabriela Santiago-Romero
Detroit City Council Member
“Raquel is very thoughtful & intentional about listening. She asked questions in a way that allowed me to hear myself & encouraged me to listen to myself. I felt heard & I feel more confident - taking control of my schedule, moving things around and saying no. I've been able to accomplish so much more.”

1:1 Coaching
Carrying the weight of the world & burned out?
I'll help you shift from a self-sacrificing mindset to one of abundance & self-fulfillment to help you
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Rekindle your passion for work
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Rediscover your purpose
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Amplify your leadership efficacy.
Group Coaching
Your team struggling?
I can work with your organization to identify underlying challenges; breakdown silos & help team members tap into their true potential to uncover innovative solutions.
Facilitation & Consulting
I Love Facilitating! I use an equitable co-governance approach to:
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Foster meaningful participation in: workshops, multi-stakeholder collaboratives, staff retreats & other gatherings
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Build equitable, inclusive, community engagement I specialize in:
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Grassroots organizing, candidate training, campaigning, policy advocacy, network building & strategy.
Become a Sponsor
Many public officials only receive a stipend or are part-time with no team to support them. Your donation will support scholarships for participants who don't have the budget to participate.
Frequency
One time
Monthly
Amount
$250
$500
$1,000
$2,500
Other
JOIN THE MOVEMENT.
STAY CONNECTED.
Join our newsletter.

Public Officials
Served 3yrs or less?
In our 90 day bootcamp you’ll learn everything you need to know to hit the ground running!

Allies
Feel like you’re fighting alone?
Join the club & meet other sheroes in office to level up your health,
joy and impact!

Customized Services
You did the thing, now what?
In our fellowship we’ll help you process, reflect & transition to what’s next.


New Officials
Served 3yrs or less?
In our 90 day bootcamp you’ll learn everything you need to know to hit the ground running!

Current Officials
Feel like you’re fighting alone?
Join the club & meet other sheroes in office to level up your health,
joy and impact!

Former Officials
You did the thing, now what?
In our fellowship we’ll help you process, reflect & transition to what’s next.

Former Canidates
Election a bust?
Losing can be devastating. Join us to learn restorative practices to help you reconnect, heal & recover

Regardless of where you are on your journey, whether you were elected or appointed, we’ve got your back! Click below to learn more and apply today.
FOR ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICIALS