Laura Murr (she/her)

Director of Development

I'm Laura, and I feel deeply honored to serve as a board member at The Gathering Place. My journey is guided by a heartfelt belief in the power of holistic healing, inclusivity, and nurturing community care. Based in Vancouver, WA, I'm a certified Reiki Master currently creating my own energy healing practice, driven by a vision that beautifully aligns with our mission here—to build bridges of compassion, understanding, and unity across cultures and beliefs.

Professionally, I've served as the Chair for PrideSpace ERG at KinderCare Learning Companies, helping foster inclusive, affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ employees, impacting over 30,000 teachers nationwide. This work has deepened my commitment to creating environments where everyone feels genuinely seen and supported—values that resonate profoundly with what we're cultivating at The Gathering Place. My current role as a Government Funding Operations Manager has strengthened my skills in strategic planning, operations, and project management, allowing me to thoughtfully contribute to our collective vision.

Throughout my career—including meaningful roles at KinderCare Education and Starbucks—I’ve cultivated a passion for building genuine relationships founded on mutual respect, trust, and care. I wholeheartedly believe in creating sacred spaces where individuals can thrive, heal, and reconnect with themselves and their communities.

A guiding quote I return to often is: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” by Mahatma Gandhi. These words reflect the heart of how I move through the world and inspire how I show up in service—both here and beyond.

I'm inspired daily by The Gathering Place’s legacy as a sanctuary of peace, belonging, and interfaith harmony. Bringing my experience in DEI training and community-building, I am committed to nurturing a space where authentic presence and compassionate connection are felt deeply by all.

I strive to make holistic wellness accessible through sliding-scale workshops, wellness circles, and community classes, ensuring everyone can experience a place of emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual nourishment. Additionally, I work closely with nonprofit partners to extend our reach, amplifying our impact and providing essential support where it's needed most.

It's my greatest joy to help weave a tapestry of healing, connection, and trust, one gathering at a time.