When most of the world is winding down for the night, our Overnight Shelter Advocate, René Tully Horton, is just getting started.
The overnight shift is a unique and vital part of what keeps Options running – it’s the part of the heartbeat that never stops. While the rest of the world sleeps, survivors in shelter often find it’s the quiet hours that bring up the most reflection, emotion, or need for connection. That’s where René steps in – providing calm reassurance, safety, and understanding in those moments when it’s needed most.
As an Overnight Advocate, René handles everything from late-night crisis calls to ensuring shelter operations run smoothly until morning. But more than that, she’s there for survivors who just need to talk – the ones who can’t sleep because of what they’ve endured, or who feel safest opening up when the world outside is still. Her compassion and steady presence make those long hours meaningful, turning darkness into a time for healing and hope.
As we continue our “Ask an Advocate” series, we’re taking time to highlight and celebrate the incredible staff members who make Options the safe, supportive place it is. Our advocates (like René) are the heart of what we do, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their dedication.
Now, let’s get into René’s interview!
What is your name, title, and how long have you worked at Options?
René Tully Horton, overnight shelter advocate, 1 year.
What does a “day in the life” of your role actually look like, and how does it change from day to day?
You never know what to expect. Pray for the best and be prepared for the worst!
What’s one thing people misunderstand most about your job?
We don’t just sit around and wait for the phone to ring. We spend most of the time being someone to lean on and share stories.
If someone shadowed you for a day, what would surprise them the most?
How our night can go from zero to 100 in a flash!
What’s the hardest part of saying goodbye to a survivor who’s moving on?
Most likely not seeing them again, it’s like losing a friend.
What’s a small “win” that makes you feel like the work you do really matters?
Seeing a woman who has been broken into a thousand pieces transition back into the community and have their own home.
What’s a ritual or habit you use to transition out of “work mode” after a tough day?
Talking to my daughters or sisters/sister-in-law and brothers.
How do you remind yourself to rest when you feel like there’s always more to do?
That’s funny, my body will literally fall into bed!
Who or what do you lean on when the work feels overwhelming?
My coworkers.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself because of this job?
That I am more resilient than I give myself credit for.
Do you have a “comfort item” at work (a photo, snack, playlist, etc.) that helps you get through the day?
The best moments are seeing my grandson and granddaughter’s pics. They always make me smile.
How do you celebrate even the smallest successes?
I smile and pay it forward. Sometimes all a person needs to hear is something nice or hold a door open for someone (those days are unfortunately disappearing).
What’s the most unexpected lesson a client or coworker has taught you?
Listen with care and compassion and keep my mouth shut!
When did you know that advocacy work was the right fit for you?
When I witnessed a survivor begin to heal.
What’s one thing you wish every survivor could hear and truly believe?
That they are loved, and not alone. EVER!
What motivates you to show up on the really hard days?
Just being there and having someone know they have a true shoulder to lean on.
If you could describe your advocacy style in three words, what would they be?
Trustworthy, kind and safe.
What’s one thing about you that your coworkers might not even know?
I owned my own Harley Davidon FXDL and still have the MC endorsement on my Driver’s license. Maybe a few tattoos. 😊
If you need any additional information, have a question, or a concern, feel free to reach out to Options at our 24-hour toll-free helpline 800-794-4624. You can also reach an advocate via text by texting HOPE to 847411 or click 24-Hour Chat with Options.
This grant project is supported by the State General Fund for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, sub-grant number 25-SGF-07, as administered by the Kansas Governor’s Grants Program. The opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Office of Kansas Governo