Introducing Nancy Fisher, Vice President of HAVEN’s Board

Why Haven? 

As a public health nurse, I spent much of my career focused on the health of mothers and their children. As my role expanded my work included issues of concern to the LGBTQ community, older populations and issues related to the broad determinants of health. 

Family/relationship violence affects all segments of our population and has very long-term effects on survivors of all ages. 

When I retired, I chose to focus some of my volunteer time on the work of HAVEN because I saw the importance of the primary, secondary and tertiary prevention work being done with a focus on trauma informed services.

How does HAVEN’s mission speak to you?

The mission of HAVEN speaks to me because I believe everyone should have a chance to live a life of safety and security on their own terms.  The most effective way to do this is not only to work with individuals, but to work in the community and with systems to address family and relationship violence.

Sponsor Spotlight on StanState

A Message from our sponsor:

“HAVEN and Stanislaus State University share a fundamental commitment to empowerment, education, and community well-being.”

Why support HAVEN?

This initiative is not just a sponsorship benefit; it's a commitment to a cause that resonates deeply with our institutional values. Violence, in any form, tears at the fabric of our communities.

HAVEN stands as a beacon of hope, offering support, resources, and refuge to those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. By supporting HAVEN, we create a safer, more nurturing environment for all individuals.

We believe in empowering survivors, breaking the cycle of violence, and fostering a culture of empathy and support. Every dollar, every resource, and every effort invested in HAVEN is a step toward a world free from violence and fear.

What would be an unexpected result of our long-term support of HAVEN?

One unexpected result of our sustained support for HAVEN could be the ripple effect it creates within our community. As we actively engage in fundraising, advocacy, and awareness campaigns, we provide direct aid to survivors, spark conversations, and inspire others to act. This ripple effect can extend far beyond what we initially envisioned, leading to increased awareness, support networks, and, ultimately, a cultural shift towards intolerance of violence in all its forms.

Our commitment today could sow the seeds for a safer, more compassionate tomorrow.

What do you think HAVEN and Stanislaus State have in common, and what makes this a great partnership?

HAVEN and Stanislaus State University share a fundamental commitment to empowerment, education, and community well-being. Working together, we have created inclusive spaces where individuals feel supported, respected, and valued. Our shared emphasis on education and prevention aligns seamlessly with HAVEN's mission to promote healthy alternatives to violence.

By partnering with HAVEN, we amplify our impact, leveraging our resources, expertise, and platform to effect positive change. Together, we can reach more individuals, provide greater support, and foster a culture of safety and respect within our community.

Our partnership with HAVEN is not just about fulfilling a sponsorship obligation; it's about standing in solidarity with survivors, advocating for change, and building a brighter future for all.

As we walk in their shoes, let's continue to strive for a world where everyone can live free from violence and fear.

Show Us Your Shoes!

HAVEN’s In Their Shoes walk is happening on Saturday, April 6, 2024 and we would love to see your shoes!

This is a shoe-centric event, and we encourage all walkers and attendees to decorate their shoes for our contest. Cinderella once said that a “good pair of shoes can change your life.”  I’m not saying that winning this contest would be life changing but it will certainly validate your artistic skills.

Meander, strut, stroll, race or take your time but walking this mile in your own shoes will certainly alter your perspective, will raise awareness of what HAVEN does in our community and shine a spotlight on gender-based violence and the barriers that our clients during their healing journey.

Please join us and show us your shoes!

REGISTER, SPONSOR or DONATE at 👉 havenstan.org/intheirshoes

If you would like to sponsor this event, please contact me, Kathleen, at (209) 284-4732 or via email at krowe-glendon@havenstan.org. For event-specific information, please contact Brandy at (209) 284-4539 or via email at bvanhorn@havenstan.org

Walking a mile “In Their Shoes”

By Kathleen Rowe-Glendon

Shoes have always been my thing.

When I was younger, I had three pairs. I had one pair of tennis shoes, a pair for school and the third pair was to be worn on special occasions. At the time, I did not think anything of it. But as I became older, shoes became more of a passion I would have to say. I became an equal opportunity collector. They became a fashion staple. I would hate to tell you how many pairs I own now.

When I started working for HAVEN in 2015, I became inspired by the work HAVEN does in our community.

HAVEN has been in Stanislaus County since 1977 and I am honored to be a part of HAVEN’s mission to end gender-based violence in all its forms. 

The shoe-centric portion of my nature immediately became entranced with HAVEN’s two fundraisers:  Kick Up Your Heels and In Their Shoes (formerly know as Walk a Mile). In both events, shoes are a cornerstone which of course sparked my creativity. I completely love working at these events.

HAVEN’s annual In Their Shoes walk is happening on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Gallo Center for the Arts.

Our participants “walk a mile” to educate our community about sexual violence. Walking a mile “In Their Shoes” leads to a deeper connection and awareness of what survivors’ experience. The walk starts at the Gallo and ends with a celebration hosted by Greens on Tenth. 

Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. I do suggest that you register online. This event is a lot of fun. I encourage you to be creative in your choice of footwear. I know I plan to be. 

If you have any questions or wish to sponsor this event, please reach out to me, Kathleen Rowe-Glendon, at (209) 284-4732 or by email at KRowe-Glendon@havenstan.org.  

I look forward to seeing you there. Please stop by and say “hi.”  We at HAVEN enjoy meeting our community supporters.

How To Support HAVEN This Month

Umpqua Bank Warm Hearts Winter Drive

The challenges faced by individuals and families who find themselves living on the streets increases exponentially during the cold winter months. Help a neighbor in need by making a donation to the Warm Hearts Winter Drive. All donations collected will be provided to over 100 local shelters in our communities to support those in need.  Please go into your local Umpqua Bank located at 1300 K Street, Ste C, Modesto, CA (209-593-6600) or donate online at https://www.umpquabank.com/warmhearts#UBWarmHearts

 Please indicate that you would like the donation to benefit Healthy Alternatives to Violent Environments (HAVEN).

My Walgreens Donation Program

Through December 31, 2023, donate your reward points from MyWalgreens to HAVEN.

HAVEN Holiday Workshop

Please drop off new clothing and unwrapped non-violent toys to HAVEN at 618 13th Street in Modesto.

HAVEN Holiday Campaign

Please go to our website at www.havenstan.org to donate.

If you have any questions, please call or email Kathleen at (209) 284-4732 or krowe-glendon@havenstan.org.

Happy Holidays!

Sponsor Highlight: Health Net

Why HAVEN?

Like HAVEN, Health Net has been serving California communities for over 40 years. We believe that every person deserves a safety net for their health, regardless of age, income, employment status or current state of health. Our years of experience have taught us a few important things, one of them being that the best way to connect with our members is to meet them where they are. That means we must partner with community-based organizations, like HAVEN, who have built trusted relationships with local residents.

What would be an unexpected result of your long-term support of HAVEN?

We’ve learned that where a community support structure does not exist, local leadership from partners like HAVEN is key. Investments must be made to build and support the institutions who know their communities best, and Health Net partners to do exactly that. That’s why we are proud to support HAVEN-led initiatives, like the renovation of the HAVEN Youth Center, expansion of the Healthy And Responsible Relationships Troop (HARRT) program and this year's ‘Kick Up Your Heels’ annual gala.

What do you think HAVEN and Health Net have in common and what makes this a good partnership?

For many people in California, basic health care requires engagement, knowledge about how to get care and access where they live. That’s why we work with community-based organizations, such as HAVEN, county health agencies and other partners to build and maintain innovative programs. Through these partnerships, Health Net is able to listen and see firsthand how every neighborhood has its own unique and important history. This knowledge is critical to helping us identify opportunities that improve local access to quality care for the people we serve.

Empowering Survivors: Navigating the Path to Safety through Haven Legal Services

In the journey to protect survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, Haven’s Legal Department plays a crucial role in providing support, guidance, and information to individuals navigating the legal system.

Haven currently aids with two types of restraining orders: Domestic Violence Temporary Restraining Order and Civil Harassment Temporary Restraining Order. Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) stand as crucial legal tools. These orders provide immediate relief and legal safeguards for individuals facing threats to their safety and well-being.

 Here is an overview of Haven Legal Services:

Providing Information to clients about the protection a restraining order can provide.

By supporting clients during the legal process, advocates can support clients as they navigate legal processes, such as court appearances, document submissions, and interactions with law enforcement.

Advocates provide safety planning. Clients having domestic violence or other safety concerns, legal advocates may work with clients to develop safety plans tailored to their individual circumstances.

Legal advocates provide referrals to support services. Connecting clients with additional support services, such as counseling, shelters, and community resources, to address broader needs beyond legal matters.

Advocates collaborate with legal professionals. Advocates can work closely with attorneys, paralegals, and other legal professionals to ensure comprehensive support for their clients.

Advocates empower and educate. Advocates empower clients by providing education on legal processes, enabling them to make informed decisions about their cases.

Crisis Intervention: Advocates provide immediate crisis intervention, especially in situations involving imminent danger or urgent legal matters.

Advocates monitor legal developments. Staying informed about changes in laws and legal procedures.

Legal advocates prioritize client confidentiality.

HAVEN clients often have barriers to access services. Those can be:

1.     Fear of Retaliation

2.     Financial Barriers

3.     Language and Cultural Barriers

4.     Lack of Awareness

5.     Immigration Status

6.     Stigma and Shame

7.     Geographic Isolation

 Addressing these barriers requires a multi-faceted approach, including public awareness campaigns, improved funding for legal aid services, and ongoing efforts to enhance the cultural competence of legal professionals. Legal services need to be not only accessible but also sensitive to the unique challenges faced by survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.

HAVEN needs your support.

HAVEN has provided comprehensive services to our community since 1977. Your support is needed so that we can continue to support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. If you are an attorney or a paralegal, please consider donating your services to our clients.  Our clients need your help to continue on their healing journey.

Director's Corner: Update from our Executive Director, May Rico

October 2023 marks 30 years since my first day of training as a HAVEN volunteer. I needed the hours for my school internship, and I wasn't thinking beyond that. Nine months later HAVEN would create a new position in the legal program where I had been volunteering. My first paid position with HAVEN was as a part-time legal advocate assisting shelter residents with restraining orders.

I didn't know I would find a passion in being a legal advocate. Helping with a restraining order means building a bridge between someone in danger and the judge who can grant them safety, and I took that responsibility very seriously. I accompanied survivors at their court hearings and supported them as they struggled for justice and safety in a system that so many times felt like it was pushing them back into the danger they were trying to escape from. At the time I met them, they had already decided to leave, yet time and again they had to justify and explain why they didn’t leave sooner or why they didn’t try harder to get along with the person who had harmed them for the sake of their children.

And I learned a secret: I didn't know how easy it was to terrorize another person and get away with it. I remember thinking, "We have to keep this secret. We can't let anyone know how much safety is an illusion.”  All it takes is for someone to decide they want to target you. And then there's no stopping them."

I'd never had a lot of contact with the criminal justice system, or much reason to need their help. But I always knew if someone was scaring me, there was a system there to keep me safe. I knew that right up until I started working at HAVEN and hearing survivor stories. And then, I knew how vulnerable, and how lucky, I was in this world.

October 2023 also marks the passing of Yvonne Allen, Co-founder of the Stanislaus Women's Refuge Center.  Founded in 1977 by Yvonne Allen and Pat Paul, the Refuge Center provided crisis line and 24-hour safe shelter for women fleeing from domestic violence and their children.
Almost 50 years later that same need for safety still exists, and HAVEN is still here trying to meet it. Thank you for partnering with us in that work.

Passing of Yvonne Allen, HAVEN Co-Founder

It is with a heavy heart that HAVEN shares news of the passing of Yvonne Allen, HAVEN co-founder.

In 1977 when the term "Domestic Violence" was still only a few years old, Yvonne Allen and Pat Paul founded the Stanislaus Women's Refuge Center. It was a crisis line and rental of a three bedroom house with a closet for a counseling office. At a time when you still had to EXPLAIN to most folks why a man shouldn't be able to beat his wife in the privacy of his own home, Pat and Yvonne saw a need for safety in Stanislaus County and worked with others to fill it. A battered women's shelter was founded and was one of the first six such shelters to receive funding by the State of California.

Over 45 years later, HAVEN has expanded its scope to include survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking, restraining order assistance, housing assistance, youth programming, prevention programming, and sits on multiple community collaboratives. Today HAVEN serves survivors of all genders, gender expressions, and sexual orientations at eight locations throughout Stanislaus County.

Yvonne was a fierce advocate for women's rights and reproductive freedom, and that sentiment has always been core to HAVEN's work and values. We will continue to honor her vision in serving our community.

Rest in Power, Yvonne. What is remembered lives.

National Grief Awareness Day

National Grief Awareness Day

There are many misconceptions regarding what happens when a survivor decides to leave a violent relationship.

Leaving is like ripping a band aid off a wound.

The cut may appear to be healed on the surface but there is still healing to be done on the inside. During this healing journey, there are a lot of mixed emotions present. There is relief but there is also sadness, grief, love, and loss. Grieving is something that will happen and is usually not understood by family and friends due to the toxicity of the relationship.

A loss was suffered.

The survivor may be overwhelmed with the loss of who they thought their partner was. They may have lost themselves as a result. There is sadness due to losing the life they expected to have. They grieve the loss of their partner. Due to the isolation and control, they may have also lost loved ones.

This process is not linear.

This grief is a part of a survivor’s healing process. Grief arrives in waves. A survivor has suffered multiple losses up leaving. They may not be able to name the feeling, but it should not be minimized, discouraged, or discounted. No matter how toxic the relationship was, it was a relationship and there was love there.

There is this expectation that a survivor should be embracing their freedom.

That they should be happy because the abuser is out of the picture. It may be difficult to understand that they may be feeling sad and lonely; that they did experience a loss.

What can you do to support a survivor?

Listen without judgment. Give them space. Don’t offer advice. Validate their feelings. Encourage them to reach out to HAVEN. This is an important part of a survivor’s healing journey.

Help is only a phone call away.

If you, or anyone you know, is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, please call HAVEN on our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980 or our business line at (209) 524-4331.

National Non-Profit Day

National Non-Profit Day

HAVEN has been providing services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in Stanislaus County since 1977. We are a non-profit and we rely on community support to continue to provide desperately needed services to our clients. Our name stands for Healthy Alternatives to Violent Environments. Our advocates are tireless, passionate, and dedicated to empowering the survivors that come through our doors seeking assistance.

Like many non-profits, HAVEN is suffering from the aftermath of COVID-19. In addition to this, some of our grants are ending and there were some that were not renewed.

• Donations are not keeping up with the need.

• We are not able to hire new staff and our existing staff is stretched thin as the demand for our services has increased.

• Our motel program has been impacted by limited funding and our confidential shelter is full. There may be times when we are not able to find a place for them without a more robust motel program. Our clients need safe spaces to heal and to plan their next steps.

• Our Legal and Advocacy Departments are buzzing with activity. These departments help with restraining orders, court accompaniment, peer counseling and support groups. Their waitlist is currently more than a week out.

In honor of National Non-Profit Day, we ask that you donate to HAVEN.

We need your help!

Here are some other ways you have help:

• Sponsor and participate in one of our two fundraising events, Kick Up Your Heels and In Their Shoes.

• Purchase some items from our Amazon Wish List.

• Think about attending our victim advocate training so you can volunteer with us.

• If you are an attorney, see if you can find time to offer your expertise to our clients.

For questions about supporting HAVEN, please call Kathleen at (209) 284-4732 or email at krowe-glendon@havenstan.org.

The Power of Affirmation

The Power of Affirmation

Affirmations sound like such simple things.

Phrases such as “I look great today” and I’m a nice person” usually come to mind. Affirmations are more complex and complicated than those two statements appear to be on the surface. Let’s face it.

We all have negative thoughts about ourselves.

These negative preconceptions can take up space in our head and can cause a lot of damage to self-esteem. Especially, if these messages are coming to you from those you love. Learning to replace negative self-talk with positivity will take both time and effort. Reframe conversations that you have with yourself. Instead of thinking “There’s no way I will get this job,” change the narrative to “I have the necessary skills and experience. I have a great shot at getting this job.”

Consistency is key with affirmations.

With daily practice, you can take charge of your story and take your power back. You have the control and the power to make this change.

We believe in you.

If you, or anyone you know, is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, please call HAVEN on our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980 or our business line at (209) 524-4331.

National Self-Care Awareness Day

National Self-Care Awareness Day, July 24

Self-care should be a daily practice.

The word “practice” is used intentionally in this context.
Daily practice of self-care is integral to both mental and physical health. It is a pause button to take a time out for reflection. Life moves fast, self-care is an intentional act to take the time to care for yourself.

Self-care is not selfish; it’s about survival.

For victims of trauma, it can be a lifeline during your healing journey. This practice should be done daily. It is completely unique as what works for someone else may not work for you. Our suggestion is to try different techniques to see if they fit. After all, you wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes without trying them on.

Here are some tips to help you get started with self-care:

• Exercise. Thirty minutes of a chosen activity (such as walking) can help boost your mood.

• Water. Stay hydrated. Watch out for caffeine. It can cause dehydration.

• Healthy, regular meals. A balanced diet will improve your energy and focus.

• Sleep! Stick to a schedule. Turn off your devices when you go to bed. Limit exposure to your devices before bedtime as the blue light can contribute to insomnia.

• Relaxation. Try to find an activity that relaxes you. There are apps that may be able to assist with this. Meditation and breathing exercises may help. The trick here is to schedule regular times to engage in these exercises and other healthy activities such as journaling.

Make yourself a priority.

The daily practice of self-care is a unique but vital component of healing. It may take some time to find what works best for you. Self-care is another tool in your toolbox and will kickstart your healing journey.

If you, or anyone you know, is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, please call HAVEN on our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980 or our business line at (209) 524-4331.

Human Trafficking in the LGBTQ+ Community

Human Trafficking in the LGBTQ+ Community

LGBTQ+IA folks are much more likely to be put into what we would call precarious labor.

Precarious labor is the type of work that is low paying, high risk for injury, lacks job protections (e.g., paid under the table, independent contractor, etc.), street-based work (vendors, sex work, selling drugs, etc.) and often leads to exploitation and trafficking.

When there’s nowhere else to turn to, staying in precarious work seems like the only option.

Push factors are the conditions that society creates which marginalizes groups of people. For LGBTQIA+ folks, those push factors may include:

• Transphobia

• Discrimination (housing, employment, shelter options, etc.)

• Immigration status

• Houselessness

Transphobia and discrimination are a common reason for most trans folks, especially youth, to turn to precarious work.

Trans immigrants, often fleeing anti-Trans violence, face multiple types of violence, including xenophobia and deportation. Familial rejection, another form of violence, pushes Trans youth into houselessness. Trans youth make up 40% of houseless youth.

Transphobia, discrimination, and lack of livable wages push LGBTQIA+ folks into precarious work.

Anti-trafficking must include the experiences of LGBTQ+IA folks.

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU. WE SEE YOU.

If you, or anyone you know, is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, please call HAVEN on our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980 or our business line at (209) 524-4331.

Interview with Deja Moore

What a Drag!

HAVEN’s HARRT group is one of the nonprofits who will receive proceeds from the event. We spoke with Deja Moore, one of the performers from What a Drag.

What drew you to perform in What a Drag?

I feel it’s important, now more than ever, to celebrate the art of drag and the joy it brings. We’re in some pretty dark times politically and drag has the power to bring light to the world.

Why is it important to you to support the programs benefiting from this event?

The programs benefiting from this program do so much for our community, and a lot of times they are overlooked when it comes to funding. This is a way to show people that there are resources for those in need, and those resources need our help to continue serving the community.

Given the current climate of the LGBTQ+ community and how drag is currently being perceived, what is the impact you hope to make?

Many want to demonize drag and the LGBTQIA+ community as a whole, in order to deflect from the problems our legislators aren’t willing to fix in this country. I want to educate and showcase what the art of drag really is. I want people to see that we are all humans trying to live bright, colorful lives, without infringing on anyone else’s. We just want to coexist.

What would you recommend to someone who wanted to become a drag artist?  What kind of training would they need?

Training is not necessary. It's about getting out there and trying drag. You will never know until you try. And have fun! Many take themselves too seriously and lose sight of why we as artists do this. The more you try, the more you learn, and the better you get.

Join us!
June 17, 2023 at 7:30 pm

Tickets

Interview with Jo

What a Drag!

HAVEN’s HARRT group is one of the nonprofits who will receive proceeds from the event. We spoke with Jo, one of the performers from What a Drag.

What drew you to perform in What a Drag?

I'm someone who has always admired the drag scene. I never thought I would get an opportunity to try it out for myself. Who wouldn't want the chance to dress up and perform for some great organizations. 

Why is it important to you to support the programs benefiting from this event?

My husband and I have been part of The PLACE (LGBTQ+ Youth group ages 20 and younger) since 2008. For us it's about creating a space and community that we didn't have when we were growing up as teens in the Central Valley. 

Given the current climate of the LGBTQ+ community and how drag is currently being perceived, what is the impact you hope to make?

I'm hoping to convey that drag isn't art. That it's performance, storytelling, satire, and comedy. That's it's about self-expression and unlocking a hidden level that you didn't even know you had. 

Do you have any experience with drag performances? What is your favorite part of participating in this event?

I have been very lucky to work with many of our local drag performers at various events. i have personally seen many queens and kings develop and perfect their performances (the work and process that goes into their craft). My favorite part so far in this process has got to be seeing the transformation from normal me to drag me. Also not only trying to learn how to walk in heels but to perform in heels. Just it being a new experience for me. I'm all in. I'm having a blast. 

Have you chosen your music yet? If so, what is the song and why does it speak to you?

The song I'm performing to is a song I think a lot of people will know and recognize. I'm going to leave it a surprise though. It speaks to me in a literal way; of being afraid of who you are and how people see you but learning to except yourself and being proud. 

Join us!
June 17, 2023 at 7:30 pm

Tickets

HAVEN Stands with the LGBTQ+ Community

The beginning of the PRIDE movement has its origins back in the early 1950’s.

The Mattachine Society, the Daughters of Billitis, and The One magazine (the first magazine openly dedicated to educating and advocating for LGBTQOI+ individuals) were part of something referred to as the Homophile movement. This movement was dedicated to the advancement of civil rights for lesbian and gay people (archaic terms at this point).

The protests started as peaceful.

There were “sip-ins” at bars where the bartenders publicly served gay patrons. Gay bars were illegal at this point. There were peaceful protests. But the cauldron of outrage boiled over and the protests starting angrily ramping up. If these organizations were the kindling, the Stonewall riots (1969) were the match that triggered the fiery protests over discrimination and lack of civil rights that were the lived experience of gay community during that time.

Being a gay person was dangerous.

If you were outed, you lost your job, your reputation, your family, your home and were at risk of being arrested, as being a gay person was against the law. Any relationship had to be kept secret, stay on the down low. The thought of a legal union sanctioned by the government was the stuff that dreams were made of.

Being ostracized was only the tip of the iceberg.

Your safety was at risk as the hate mongering was so intense, that you could be beaten at the very least or killed due to fear-based ignorance. The prevailing theory was that same-gender attraction could be cured.

This is the foundation of PRIDE month.

Things to consider, we have come a long way, but we still have further to go.

HAVEN stands with the LGBTQ+ community as a safety net agency and an ally.

 WE ARE HERE FOR YOU. WE SEE YOU.

If you, or anyone you know, is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, please call HAVEN on our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980 or our business line at (209) 524-4331. Help is just a phone call away.

Support HAVEN's Youth Department

What type of community support does the Youth Department need right now?

The Youth Department could always benefit from monetary donations, as our programs currently survive on several funding streams that operate on a yearly basis, which creates a level of uncertainty as to what we can offer each year as funding streams come and go. Other types of community support the Youth Department could utilize right now are donated items that we can give to teens in need, such as school supplies, backpacks, notebooks, wellness items, toiletries, and other essentials. Perhaps most importantly, the Youth Department needs community support in establishing connections with potential school site administrators to establish services and increase our outreach specifically in Modesto City Schools.

Where are Youth advocates stationed?  How many sites?  What services do they provide?

Youth staff are currently serving Stanislaus county at Pitman High School, Patterson High School, Del Puerto High School, Glick Middle School, Stanislaus Military Academy, Stanislaus State, Stanislaus Juvenile Corrections, and Riverbank Elementary. Our Educators provide prevention and intervention curriculum to youth ages 5 to 17 in schools, correctional facilities, and our offices. They also provide educational presentations across the county, with some recent partners being Marshall Elementary, Elliot Alternative Education Center, Aspiranet, and Stanislaus State.

What would be your dream for the Youth Department?

Youth staff dream of our department being able to offer a robust array of services to address the needs of youth in our community. We dream of enhanced partnerships with other youth-serving agencies and expanding our services one day to be a place where youth can drop in to obtain basic needs support and person-centered case management. We dream of innovation and expanding culturally responsive services in areas of high need of support. Ultimately, we are working to make HAVEN’s name synonymous with violence prevention and youth empowerment in our community.

To learn more about ways to support HAVEN contact Kathleen at (209) 284-4732 or krowe-glendon@havenstan.org.

What a Drag Event

What a Drag!

HAVEN’s HARRT group is one of the nonprofits who will receive proceeds from the event. We spoke with Debbie Soro, one of the founders of our HARRT program, about What a Drag.

Why HAVEN?

Two reasons. One is that Holly Grace Currie and I co-founded the H.A.A.R.T. youth group back in 2015 at Enoch’s High School with the help of HAVEN. It has always held an extremely important place in my heart because we could see immediately the difference that it made, not just for our HARRT kids, but for the people that they shared their message with. That first group of youth leaders went into health classes that first year as part of their advocacy project and taught their peers about what healthy relationships should look like. There is no better feeling than knowing that we provided a safe and supportive space to empower students and we were honored to see the fruits of our labor. Second, I pitched this idea to a few other organizations back in 2019. Haven was the only organization that was willing to take a chance on my idea and really embrace the concept of creating an event where people who normally might not occupy the same space would be brushing elbows with each other. Sadly, COVID quashed the first attempt at What A Drag, but luckily for me, my Kappa Epsilon sisters have been super supportive of bringing it to life this year. 

What is your vision for "What a Drag?" 

The vision is multi-layered. First, I want to be able to educate the community about what drag is and what it isn't. I want to correct the misinformation about drag and drag performers, especially considering today's political climate. I also want to educate folx about healthy relationships, LGBTQIA issues, and acceptance in general. This is why the Rainbow Resource Center and HARRT have been invited to participate at the event. Second, I want to bring the community together to celebrate local talent and support local, smaller nonprofits. I know this is cliche, but I want unity in the community. Third, I have a theater background and see things in terms of "ACTS" - for example this show has two ACTS. Each ACT has a good deal of entertainment, hopefully a subtle educational component, and a not-so-subtle message about love, empowerment, and acceptance. Like a musical, there will be an opening expert ensemble performance number, an entire cast ensemble closing number and a spectacular curtain call, in addition to drag and other performances. 

Are you planning on hosting other events?

In my head I am always planning events and/or having whacky ideas, LOL! Seriously, it is my secret desire that What A Drag will become an annual event with a rotating cast of performers/community leaders and rotating nonprofits who will be the beneficiaries of the money we raise. 

Join us!
June 17, 2023 at 7:30 pm

Tickets

Spotlight on StanState Students Donation Drive

HAVEN is fortunate to partner with some very amazing individuals. A group of Stan State students did a donation drive for us and we wanted to highlight their efforts.

There are many worthy non-profits in the area, why did you choose to support HAVEN?

While researching issues that are impacting Stanislaus County, our group agreed that domestic violence is an issue that requires more attention. Upon conducting a review of the surrounding agencies that help DV survivors, we realized that we could partner with the HAVEN Victim Advocate at CSU Stanislaus to carry out our project. In doing so, we were able to connect with the larger HAVEN organization and determine what their needs are so we can best help and advocate for DV survivors.

With the donation drive, you are supporting HAVEN at a micro level. What are you doing to support HAVEN at a macro level?

Our group will be creating a financial education brochure for the organization that they can disburse to survivors. While our group will not be able to expand on the information in the brochures due to time constraints and efforts to protect the confidentiality of survivors, we hope that it will serve as the foundation for future workshops centered around empowering survivors to pursue education and employment. We consulted with multiple HAVEN representatives and determined that more assistance was needed in helping survivors obtain basic financial literacy skills that will help them create a brighter future for themselves and their families after leaving their abusive environments. This brochure will educate survivors on how to open their own separate bank account and will provide a resource to help them build a budget. Lastly, we will be providing HAVEN with an extremely useful resource that they can utilize to help survivors
regain financial autonomy.

At HAVEN, we are huge on self-care. What do you do to take care of yourselves when you are feeling overwhelmed?

Lesly: When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I like to listen to my music at full blast and try to get
some fresh air by taking a walk or going for a drive. When I have more time, I try to clean and declutter my home (I’m a clean freak so cleaning helps me de-stress). As a future social worker, I take my mental health seriously, so I meet with my therapist about 2 to 3 times a month as well.

Ana: For self-care, I like to go for walks alone to clear my mind and have a moment to myself. When I feel overwhelmed, I like to take a long shower or bath to help me relax. Spending time with my daughter and husband keeps me in a positive mental space.

Lauren: When I am feeling overwhelmed, I typically like to take a break from what I am doing. Some self-care that I always do is workout at least three times a week. Other activities I do are splurge into a good Netflix show, or hangout with friends and family.

Morgan: My favorite way to practice self-care is by just going outside and getting some fresh air and exercise, it can be as simple as going for a walk down the street. Spending quality time with my loved ones is also especially important to me. I also like to do a social media “cleanse” a few days a month for my mental health.

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Stanislaus State Advocacy

HAVEN partners with StanState to provide on-campus confidential support for students, staff and faculty impacted by interpersonal violence.