Serving ALL Individuals
About Us
We value the inclusion of all survivors. Through education, empowerment, and community collaboration, we believe all individuals have a right to a healthy relationship.
Creating a Safe Haven
Our Mission
Following Christ’s example and motivated by our community needs, our mission is to prevent and end relationship abuse and human trafficking.
Our Vision
We value the inclusion of all survivors. Through education, empowerment and community collaboration, we believe all individuals have a right to a healthy relationship.
Our Values
Safe Haven Ministries’ residential and non-residential services are available to individuals and families who have experienced or who are experiencing domestic abuse, human trafficking, and exploitation.
We serve all individuals equally regardless of age, race, religious belief, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status.
We are survivor centered – we empower and support each individual wherever they are in their healing journey.
Equity & Belonging
We thoughtfully value and serve each individual and strive to create a safe haven for all.
Systems Change
We address the root causes that contribute to intimate partner violence to create sustainable change.
Excellence
We believe in securing unique and qualified talent committed to excellence.
Stewardship
We steward the relationships and resources entrusted to us to maximize our effectiveness and community impact.
Faith
While rooted in our Christian foundation, we respect the beliefs and dignity of all individuals.
Community Collaboration
We collaborate with community partners to reduce barriers and meet the needs of those we serve.
Safety
Safety is a basic human right and the foundation of an individual’s ability to thrive.
Social Norms Change
By changing attitudes, behaviors, and policies that contribute to relationship abuse, we can prevent violence before it begins.
Our News
Our Impact
through crisis and support services in 2025.
reached through training sessions.
served in emergency safe shelter in 2025.
provided in our shelter in 2025.
Our Leadership Team
Rachel VerWys, MSW
CEO
Holly Wilson, LMSW
Director of Client Services
Tara Aday, MPA
Senior Director of Programs
Tony Tendero, EdD
Director of Prevention Praxis
Zenaida Jimenez
Director of Housing Services
Josh VandeGuchte
Director of Finance
Joseph Curtis
Director of Advancement
Board of Directors
Officers
Rachel VerWys
CEO
Safe Haven Ministries
Michael Wiese
President
Attorney, Smith, Haughey, Rice & Roegge
Jessica Collette
Vice President
Creator, Yours to Lose
Danica deWaha-Persons
Treasurer
CPA/Manager of Global Policy, Whirlpool Corporation
Yani Castro
Secretary
Director of Human Resources, Byrne Electrical Specialist
board members
Alexandria Walker
Senior Director of Strategy & Client Services, Truscott Rossman
Julie Manion
Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Maleika Brown
Educator, Director of Equity and Inclusion, GRPS
Melissa Stewart
Founder, Clear Vista Advisors
Mike Bovill
Attorney, Warner Norcross + Judd
Rebecca Paalman
Sr. Director of Finance Transformation, Styrker
Sadoc Paredes
Co-founder & CEO, Vetr Health
Shawnee Eder
Senior Events Project Manager, Grand Rapids Chamber
