Women Inspiring Nevada: Linda Perez, CEO, The Shade Tree

Linda Perez, chief executive officer of The Shade Tree, says her commitment to aiding survivors of domestic violence stems from her own experience as a survivor. After beginning her career in sales and resource management, Perez moved into nonprofit leadership, serving as enforcement manager at St. Jude House in Indiana. At The Shade Tree, she directs fundraising, finance and operations while expanding client outreach and extending services for women, children and pets in crisis, even after they leave the shelter. Under her guidance, the organization has added a 24‑hour crisis hotline and specialized assistance for survivors of human trafficking. Perez also holds the position of vice president with the Nevada Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence and lends her support to groups such as Noah’s Animal House, Signs of Hope and Dress for Success of Southern Nevada. Her work at The Shade Tree blends her personal insight into the obstacles survivors face with years of experience helping families rebuild their lives.