Meet The Lotus Coalition Team


PAULA LARUE

Executive Director

Paula LaRue is a compassionate advocate and dedicated leader within The Lotus Coalition, an organization committed to providing advocacy and resources for individuals emerging from addiction, poverty, homelessness, mental health challenges, and the horrors of human trafficking. With her expertise in crisis intervention, counseling, and community collaboration, Paula has become a guiding light for those in need of support and empowerment.

In her role as Director at The Lotus Coalition, Paula spearheads the development and implementation of transformative programs that bring hope and restoration to survivors. Her visionary leadership and exceptional program management skills create a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can rebuild their lives and overcome the profound challenges they have faced.


 Operations Director

  • My natural abilities are in the realm of organization, admin, and finances. I enjoy process improvement and figuring out ways for things to be more structured; so it’s not a coincidence that my role at Lotus is in Operations. Outside of the office, you can usually find me checking out a new restaurant with friends, reading a book in a corner, or hanging out at home with my husband and aussiedoodle. I’m fluent in Haitian-Creole and love learning, eating different foods, and traveling to other countries.

Program Director

  • I am so excited to work on a team that wholeheartedly loves and appreciates people from all walks of life. I love being in a place where I can give back a little slice of hope, just as it was given to me. There is nothing that can beat the feeling when you can see in someone when it starts to actually click that they are worth it. Vibe Recovery plays a very important role in the sense of helping as many individuals as possible while respecting and loving humans in their journey through life. I have a beautiful three-year-old little girl who is my whole world, and I aspire to be the best mama possible to her and share my knowledge and aspirations to help others and do good with her.

Outreach & Anti-Human Trafficking Liaison 

  • I am committed to making a difference in the lives of the homeless community. My 15 years of experience in outreach and my challenges along the way have led to my unwavering compassion for those in need. My favorite part of the job is seeing the spark of hope and faith in the eyes of strangers who become my cherished sisters and brothers.

    When I am not on the field I can be found filling my heart with the warmth of the sun and sand at the beach or spending time with my furry family. I am a proud mom to two sweet animals - Buster, my beloved 4-year-old dog, and Murphy, my adorable 1-year-old cat. My love for the community is evident in every aspect of my life, and I am grateful to be part of our team.

Business Development and Strategist

  • I am passionate about helping the most vulnerable in our city. I love coming alongside organizations and leaders in order to make the dream happen. Each day I hope to see more lives changed and have access to the resources they need in order to thrive. I am highly skilled in project management and enjoy executing strategic initiatives.

    When I'm not working I love spending time with my friends and family. Some of my hobbies include running, cooking, and curling up with a good book.​