Cara Tratner joined the Law Center in 2022 as a community organizer, supporting the tenant members of Renters United Philadelphia (RUP) and working to expand RUP’s outreach and capacity, helping to build a citywide network of organized renters fighting for healthy, affordable and stable housing.

Cara joined the Law Center with more than seven years of both grassroots community organizing experience and direct service experience in harm reduction, housing, and reentry. Most recently, they served as a Housing Assistance Manager for S.E.L.F Inc. in Philadelphia, developing and implementing the organization’s rapid re-housing program for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing homelessness. Prior to joining S.E.L.F, Cara was a Reentry Program Coordinator with Prevention Point Philadelphia. Cara has more than 10 years of experience as a facilitator, most recently with Training for Change, leading intensive educational workshops for white people to learn to challenge racism, including their own bias, and strengthen their work for racial justice. In 2017, Cara also helped found the Philadelphia Community Bail Fund and continues to serve as a core organizer.

Cara earned a B.A. in Sociology from Wesleyan University. Following graduation, they served as a Thomas J. Watson Fellow.