From the desk of the Executive Director

Hope isn’t a wish one makes, hope is an action word. When hope is provided, movement is encouraged and even the smallest step taken forward opens a new world of possibilities to a brighter, better future.

Shelterhouse is a beacon of hope within our community. We do not exist alone as an organization, rather, it is our community’s enduring support, endless commitment, and compassion for survivors that gives life to the “hope” of our mission statement: refuge, hope, and healing.

Empowerment is the long-term goal of our services. As an organization that has been around for 45 years, it is an absolute gift to hear directly from survivors about the wholistic impact that Shelterhouse has had on their lives. I have had the honor of hearing stories from many of our donors who have memories of their time at Shelterhouse. Children who spent time playing outside at the M-20 location, now grown into adults, who want to give back to support other parents going through what their parent went through with them. Community members who are engaged philanthropically locally, who find the experience of giving back to be a continuation of their healing journey with Shelterhouse. These stories are a gift. They speak directly to the amazing foundation our community has laid and the legacy we continue to build together as we work with brave survivors.

In 2020-2021, 193 children and adults stayed in Shelter, nearly a 50% year-over-year increase. While this increase may indicate an increased rate of domestic violence and sexual assault in our community, I believe it is also reflective of the growing awareness about who we serve. Our new home on Waldo Ave. was designed with survivors of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities in mind. Survivors' pets are welcome, too. Considering this intentional expansion in who we can serve in the emergency shelter, more individuals and families who need refuge are able to receive it. This is hope in action, a result of our community-wide effort to empower all survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Last year, our hotline received 4,818 calls – an average of 13-14 calls each day. Each call is answered by a trained, compassionate, non-judgmental member of our team. These calls range from survivors needing immediate support, to community members who are asking for advice on how to best support their friend in need. Healing relationships focus on creating a space where balance and harmony exist so that the healing process will be supported. When the action of hope is partnered with a community that seeks to cultivate healthy relationships, survivors become empowered and empowerment is infused throughout our entire community.

I am grateful for the Shelterhouse team and our community. The refuge, hope, and healing that is provided is truly transformational.

- Denise M. Berry