SHAWANO, WI — Safe Haven, a local nonprofit that supports victims of domestic and sexual violence, is expanding its outreach efforts with the launch of free workplace presentations starting this summer.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about the organization’s confidential services while also engaging local businesses and employees in supporting the mission. The announcement comes as Safe Haven celebrates being officially recognized as a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a significant milestone in its service to the community.
The new workplace presentations are available to any business or organization located in Shawano County and are tailored to fit employers’ scheduling needs. Sessions can be held on-site and may last as little as 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the availability of the staff.
“We really are going to lean into what the workplace and the employers are looking for,” Lohff explained. “So if the employees have a half hour, we’ll use that half hour. The beauty of it is we can cater to what they’re looking for.”
“A lot of people don’t know all of the specific services that we offer,” said Lohff. “We offer assistance with filing restraining orders, support through legal processes, emergency financial assistance, support groups, and sometimes we’re just that listening ear people need to start planning their safety.”
Lohff noted that these efforts are about more than awareness, they’re about building a community that’s equipped to help.
“Our goal is to educate not only about what domestic violence and sexual abuse are and the warning signs, but also how we can help,” she said. “We want our community to be armed with knowledge.”
While the presentations are free of charge, Safe Haven welcomes donations in the form of gas cards or items from their wish list to help support their shelter and other services. An updated list of needed items is available on their website.
The organization’s mission is rooted in being accessible, helpful, and proactive, something Lohff believes is best achieved by meeting people where they are.
“We just want to be able to help get the word out,” she said. “And sometimes that means showing up at the workplace with a message that can save or change a life.”
Comments