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24/7 HelpLine: 734-995-5444 If you are in immediate danger, call 911. |
Linea de Apoyo de 24 horas: 734-995-5444 Si esta en grave peligro, llame a 911. |
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24/7 HelpLine: 734-995-5444 If you are in immediate danger, call 911. |
Linea de Apoyo de 24 horas: 734-995-5444 Si esta en grave peligro, llame a 911. |
An Update from our Executive Director
Dear Friend.
Welcome to October! October is a month that signifies multiple things for us as SafeHouse Center.
First, it means the beginning of a new fiscal year and an eye towards new opportunities and goals. Simultaneously, it also serves as an opportunity for continued reflection on how to navigate and respond to an ever changing and unpredictable funding landscape.
This is a challenge! And not just for SafeHouse Center but for many community non-profits who currently find themselves grappling with the dilemma of either doing more with less, or adjusting service delivery and capacity. We accept this challenge with the intent to meet the needs of our community, however, we must also honor sometimes temporary limitations.
So as we enter Fiscal Year 24/25, we do so having recently undertaken an agency restructure which included the merger of our sexual assault and domestic violence programs and the elimination of some staff positions. These decisions were not taken lightly but our hope is that these efforts will ultimately strengthen our agency’s ability to provide efficient and effective services. We also hope you will continue to support our staff, as we settle into our new structure and perhaps the limitations that follows, knowing that staff at SafeHouse continue to do an amazing job every single day to ensure that all survivors feel heard and find a place where they can be safe and belong.
And that brings me to my second point of what October means for us:
It means the remembrance and honoring of people impacted by intimate partner violence as we join national efforts to uplift victims and survivors as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).
I appreciate the collectiveness that surfaces every October and how you, the community, during this time really elevate our message to survivors: you are not alone, you are believed and you are valued! This is evident by all the community requests we receive to share information and education on the topics of domestic violence, our services and how to support survivors. It is evident by the spaces that are created for stories and experiences to be shared without fear of retaliation or judgment, and it is evident by the great public showing of unity as we run domestic violence out of town, not once but twice!
October will bring many occasions/opportunities for you to stand with survivors and we hope you will join us at these events or consider a donation, because unfortunately, domestic violence continues to impact people in our community and only together can we ensure the support needed remains available and accessible.
Thank you for your partnership and for your care, it is greatly appreciated.
Wishing you a happy and safe DVAM.
Christine Watson
Executive Director
Join our team! Check out our website to see what opportunities we have available!
Celebrating 40 years of VOCA, but what is next?
This summer marked the 40th anniversary of The Victims of Crime Act: passed by Congress in 1984, The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) established the Crime Victims Fund. Each year, the Crime Victims Fund is financed by Federal criminal fines, fees, penalties, and special assessments – not from tax dollars.
The Crime Victims Fund is a major funding source for victim services throughout the country, supporting millions of survivors through hundreds of direct services organizations such as domestic violence shelters, rape crisis programs, victim services programs, child abuse programs and more. (source: National Domestic Violence Hotline)
VOCA was an extraordinary accomplishment and commitment by our federal government, recognizing the devastating and costly impact of domestic violence and sexual assault across our nation and the need for supporting service providers and communities.
SafeHouse Center is a proud recipient of VOCA funding and in fact, we would not be able to operate without these crucial federal dollars.
We celebrate and are very grateful for the existence of the Crime Victims Fund, which in past years brought financial stability and allowed us to expand our services and reach. However, in recent years the balance of the Crime Victims Fund has decreased and less money has been earmarked for organizations such as SafeHouse Center.
As an agency, we have made adjustments in line with a decrease in funding allocations, however, we are also facing a critical juncture as it is currently being predicted that for the next fiscal year (FY25/26), VOCA allocations will be cut by up to 40% nationwide. If that proves accurate, this would have a disastrous impact on all services providers, including SafeHouse Center. It would mean having to further eliminate staff positions, programs and decrease our overall services capacity.
Some action is being taken by our legislators and we are very grateful for the support and response by our very own Congresswomen Dingell who is currently co-sponsoring a bipartisan bill in the House that would help stabilize the Crime Victims Fund (H.R.8061 “To temporary provide additional deposits into the Crime Victims Fund”). There is also a bipartisan bill in the Senate S.4515 (“To clarify that amounts from declinations should be deposited in the Crime Victims Fund and to temporarily provide additional deposits into the Crime Victims Fund”).
Collectively the work to stabilize and secure funding must continue and must be successful, because the work to support and create safe spaces for survivors also must continue. The work is not done!
So thank you to our legislators for hearing our pleas and thank you for doing your bit to support survivors.
If you would like to learn more about VOCA, past achievements and current efforts, here are some additional resources:
National Network To end Domestic Violence
Bill H.R.8061 “To temporary provide additional deposits into the Crime Victims Fund”: H.R. 8061
Bill S.4515 (“To clarify that amounts from declinations should be deposited in the Crime Victims Fund and to temporarily provide additional deposits into the Crime Victims Fund”). S. 4514
Housing Program
Staff Updates and Housing Success
Yun Lee Takes on New Role as Rapid Rehousing Advocate
We’re excited to announce that Yun Lee, our current Shelter Advocate, has been hired as the new Rapid Rehousing (RRH) Advocate. Yun will transition to this new role near the end of September 2024.
Housing Manager Attends Advanced Training
Housing Manager Shelia Y. Darden will be attending the In-Person Training for Advanced Voluntary Services (AVS): Beyond the Basics of Voluntary Services for the Transitional Supportive Housing (TSH) Program in Aurora, Colorado, the week of September 23, 2024. This training will equip Shelia with valuable knowledge and skills to enhance our TSH program.
Continued Success in Housing Residents
We’re pleased to report that our residents and service participants continue to find safe and stable housing with the invaluable support of our partner agencies, SOS Community Services and Avalon Housing. Their collaborative efforts in RRH and DV implementation, as well as TSH programs, have been instrumental in helping individuals achieve housing security.
Support and Advocacy Services
In Mid-July, SafeHouse conducted a restructuring of programs merging the Crisis Support and Advocacy Services Program with the Sexual Assault Services program under the supervision of Amy Merkle. Amy is a long standing member of the SafeHouse Center team, celebrating her 25th year with SHC in September. Congratulations Amy and thank you for all of your contributions to the agency, survivors and our community!! We are very grateful for your continued leadership of the newly created program, Support and Advocacy Services which will continue to provide individual and group support, advocacy and resources to survivors of both domestic violence and sexual assault.
A Sound Bath for Healing and Awareness
In July, survivors who participated in our support groups were treated to a deeply relaxing and restorative sound bath meditation. Led by the experienced intuitive empath Lisa Harthun, this session offered a unique opportunity for participants to reduce stress, improve sleep, enhance mental clarity, and promote emotional healing.
Using a variety of vibrational sound therapy techniques, Lisa guided attendees through a gentle breath work practice and a soothing immersion in the sounds of singing bowls. The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting a sense of peace, relaxation, and renewed energy.
Sexual Health Awareness Month Resource Fair
To commemorate Sexual Health Awareness Month on September 17th, we hosted a successful Resource Fair. This event brought together a diverse group of community organizations to provide valuable information and resources to survivors, volunteers, and community members.
Participating organizations included Planned Parenthood, the U of M Breast Health and Cancer Genetics Clinic, U of M SANE, Unified-Vivent Health, and Packard, among others. Attendees had the chance to learn about sexual wellness, access essential services, and connect with support networks.
Helpline Program
Helpline Remains Strong Despite Challenges
Despite facing recent staffing and volunteer shortages, our Helpline team has continued to provide unwavering support to shelter residents and their children. Our dedicated staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly to answer calls 24/7 and offer essential assistance.
We’re excited to share that we’ll be welcoming 13 new volunteers and 3 interns to our team this fall, which will help bolster our capacity to serve those in need.
Even as demand for our services continues to grow, our team remains committed to providing crucial support. We’re dedicated to connecting callers with the resources they need, whether it’s shelter, legal aid, or other essential services.
Response Team Program
A Summer of Support
Our Response Team (RT) has faced the ongoing challenge of staffing shifts during the summer months, as volunteers balance work, family commitments, and personal time. Despite these challenges, we are incredibly grateful for the unwavering dedication of our volunteers who consistently step up to cover shifts and provide essential support.
Whether it’s meeting with survivors at the hospital or offering remote support through phone calls, our RT volunteers play a crucial role in providing information about SHC services, safety planning, and community resources. Their compassion and expertise are invaluable in helping survivors navigate difficult situations.
Shelter & Children’s Program
Highlighting Our Volunteers:
We’re grateful for the dedication of our volunteers who continue to make a significant impact on our Shelter & Children’s Program.
Upcoming Events
Resident Room Decor and Indoor Trick-or-Treating: Stay tuned for the date of our annual indoor trick-or-treating event and resident room decorating contest.
Planning Committee Update:
Our Fall Staff Picnic will take place on October 8th from 2-4 PM. We’ll enjoy delicious food, outdoor games, a fall craft, and some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for the Halloween Office Door Decorating Contest! Staff will decorate their office door with a festive and non-scary theme. Voting will take place on Thursday, October 31st, and prizes will be awarded to the top three entries.
Legal Advocacy Program
Our legal advocates continue to work tirelessly to address the unique needs of each survivor. From advocating on their behalf to assisting with personal protection orders and connecting them with essential resources, the legal team provides unwavering support and guidance. Their commitment to justice and empowerment is inspiring.
Volunteer, Intern & Speaker’s Bureau Program
Investing in the Future: New Interns and Training
We’re thrilled to welcome six new interns from the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor & Flint), Eastern Michigan University, and Wayne State University for the 2024-2025 school year! Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Kathryn, Natalie, Faith, Ruth, Sarah, and Evelina.
Our commitment to building a strong support network continues with the recent graduation of 31 volunteers and staff members from our CORE Training program. These volunteers are now equipped to provide valuable direct and non-direct services to survivors of domestic violence. The next CORE Training will be held in February 2025. Sign up for our call back list for more information.
Empowering Teens: SafeHouse Center’s Teen Voice Program Launches
The Teen Voice Program is back and offering workshops throughout the school year! Join us for our first session on October 29th from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM to learn about the Teen Power & Control Wheel. This workshop will equip teens with the knowledge and tools to identify healthy and unhealthy relationships.
SafeHouse Center in the Community
We’d like to express our sincere gratitude to the following community partners who have hosted SafeHouse Center at their events:
Looking for SafeHouse Center? Visit us at the Saturday Ypsilanti Farmers Market & Sunday Artisan Market in Kerrytown!
Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Raising Awareness Together
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, SafeHouse Center is collaborating with community partners to bring awareness through art. We’ll be displaying the Clothesline Project, a powerful collection of t-shirts created by survivors and allies, at various locations throughout October.
Visit the Clothesline Project displays at:
Look for our purple ribbons and messages on college campuses, downtown Ann Arbor, and downtown Ypsilanti. This “Ribboning Up the Town” initiative is a visual reminder of our commitment to ending domestic violence. Want to join the team? Contact volunteer@safehousecenter.org.
Let SafeHouse Center Help Raise Awareness:
SafeHouse Center offers free information and resource tables. Invite a SafeHouse Center representative to your next event. Contact speakerbureau@safehousecenter.org or click here to learn more.
Making a Difference: Volunteer Spotlight
This month, we’re highlighting the dedication of three incredible volunteers:
Dale Ulrich: A Response Team volunteer who provides comfort and support to survivors in their time of need. Dale shares, “A meaningful event is when a survivor reached out to touch my hand… survivors like talking with me.”
Virginia Sory Brown: A Response Team volunteer who empowers survivors and helps them feel more hopeful. Virginia emphasizes, “My goal is always to leave the survivor in a better place than when I met them.”
Corrine ‘Corky’ Peck: A longtime volunteer who greets survivors with warmth and compassion at the front desk. Corky says, “Being at the front desk greeting survivors when they come in, I know I am making a difference.”
Supporting Survivors During Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Here are some resources for learning how to support survivors and promote healing:
We hope you’ll join us in raising awareness and taking action to end domestic violence.
Women and Men Working for Change Annual Domestic Violence 5K Walk/Run
October 5, 8AM – 12PM
Parkridge Park, Harriet Street, Ypsilanti, MI
Trunk or Treat: Join us for a fun-filled evening on October 23rd from 6 – 8 PM in the Admin parking lot!
Safehouse Center Workshop: How to Support Survivors
October 24, 6 – 7:30 PM
Safehouse Center’s Teen Voice: Learn about the Teen Power & Control Wheel
October 29, 6:30 – 7:30 PM
The 10th Annual Purple Run is Coming Up!
The Purple Run is a 5K walk/run to raise awareness of domestic violence and stand up in support of survivors. All proceeds from the event go to Safehouse Center and allow us to fulfill our mission of providing free and confidential services to survivors of intimate-partner violence and sexual assault. We are so grateful to all in the community who have shown their support and we look forward to meeting you all at this year’s Purple Run!
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 9:00AM Race Start
Location: Duderstadt Center, 2281 Bonisteel, Ann Arbor MI 48109
We’re running domestic violence out of town.
Our Quilt Sale is Open!
The Greater Ann Arbor Quilt Guild (GAAQG) has supported SafeHouse Center through donations of quilts for many years. Each fall, the Greater Ann Arbor Quilt donates quilts for SafeHouse Center to sell as a fundraiser. These quilts are lovingly handmade by members of the Guild. With cold weather on it’s way, grab your warm quilt today!
2024 Men’s Campaign
Our 2024 Men’s Campaign has concluded. Thank you to everyone who showed their support! Domestic abuse permeates all types of intimate partner relationships, including same-sex partnerships. Disturbingly, statistics reveal that 1 in every 4 women and 1 in every 7 men in the United States alone become victims of domestic abuse at some point in their lives. To confront this issue, we must firmly establish that abuse is unequivocally unacceptable. As we enter Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), we would like to encourage all of our Men’s Campaign supporters to learn about DVAM and raise awareness of Domestic Violence.
Thank you to our donors and volunteers for your continued support! Your contributions allow us to continue to offer free and confidential services to survivors.
“As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.” – Mary Anne Radmacher
