There are hundreds of organizations right here in our community that are making a difference in the lives of so many that live and work near us. But without being made aware of them, some of us would never know they exist.
Pat Preston, my dad, has been donating to an organization called WomenSafe for a few years now, and I was curious to find out more about their cause and whom they serve. A few days ago I went for a visit and met with Executive Director Shayna Jackson and was blown away at all the good they are doing for domestic violence victims in Geauga County. What started as a grassroots organization in women’s homes in the 1980s now employs 25 people and serves as a full functioning emergency shelter and counseling center free of charge.
WomenSafe focuses on helping these particular individuals help themselves and puts resources at their fingertips to do just that. “Our goal is to help these men and women get back on their own two feet without feeling like they still need their abuser,” says Jackson. Once the men, women, and families feel they are ready to leave the shelter environment and are ready for a new start, WomenSafe will help set them up in housing and provide them with everything from lamps to beds and couches. Shayna says, “We want to provide care in a compassionate and dignified manner.”
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WomenSafe also makes it a priority to partner with law enforcement and has been active in training workplaces to recognize the signs of abuse and how to report it. “We couldn’t do what we do everyday without everyone’s help and support.”
Some of those who do help are members of Friends of WomenSafe. They sponsor eight fundraisers a year, one of which was just held a few weekends ago. Nancy Temple, President of Friends of WomenSafe, works hard to get the community involved. “We like to keep our ticket prices low so that everyone has a chance to help.”
In their seven years of existence Friends of WomenSafe has given $254,000 dollars to WomenSafe. No member of Friends receives a salary and they are all volunteering their time and resources to support WomenSafe. To learn more about these wonderful organizations please visit womensafe.org and take a minute to see why we feel they are so deserving of your time and donations.
To see all the organizations that we support visit our website
Author: Jackie Preston Franck
Jackie Preston Franck works on marketing and advertising for the Preston Superstore in Burton. Jackie has a background in broadcast television and has been involved in the car business for 20 years. She grew up in Newbury and now resides in Auburn Township with her husband Andy and their two children.