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.

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. 

We thoughtfully value and serve each individual and strive to create a safe haven for all.

While rooted in our Christian foundation, we respect the beliefs and dignity of all individuals.
We believe in securing unique and qualified talent committed to excellence.
We steward the relationships and resources entrusted to us to maximize our effectiveness and community impact.
We address the root causes that contribute to intimate partner violence to create sustainable change.

By changing attitudes, behaviors, and policies that contribute to relationship abuse, we can prevent violence before it begins.

Safety is a basic human right and the foundation of an individual’s ability to thrive.

We collaborate with community partners to reduce barriers and meet the needs of those we serve.

Our Impact

supported
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through crisis and support services in 2022.

supported
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reached through training sessions.

Children
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served in emergency safe shelter in 2022.

NIGHTS OF SAFETY
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provided in our shelter in 2022.

Our Leadership Team

Rachel VerWys, MSW
CEO

Holly Wilson, LMSW
Director of Client Services

Tara Aday, MPA
Senior Program Director

Lynn Yntema
Senior Director of Development

Zenaida Jimenez
Director of Housing Services

Tony Tendero, EdD
Fellow in Residence

Board of Directors

Rachel VerWys
CEO
Safe Haven Ministries

Shannon Vinson
President
D.R.I.V.E. Challenge Consultant Firm, LLC

Danica deWaha-Persons
Treasurer
CPA/Manager of Global Policy, Whirlpool Corporation

Esperanza Degan
Secretary
PwC

Malieka Brown
Director of Equity and Inclusion, GRPS

Yani Castro
Director of Human Resources. Byrne Electrical Specialist

Michael Wiese
Attorney, Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Julie Manion
Relator, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Alexandria Walker
Senior Director of Strategy & Client Services, Truscott Rossman

Melissa Stewart
Founder Clear Vista Advisors

Leadership Team Contact Form