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.
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.
By changing attitudes, behaviors, and policies that contribute to relationship abuse, we can prevent violence before it begins.
We collaborate with community partners to reduce barriers and meet the needs of those we serve.
Our News
Our Impact
Empowering Clients
We empower clients by providing choices, empowering them to make their own decisions, and by providing support along their journey of healing.
Domestic Violence & Faith
We are nationally recognized for our unique ability to address issues of faith and their intersection with domestic abuse.
Prevention Through Education
We help employers, faith communities, schools, and other agencies create a culture of abuse prevention through training and resources.
Served through crisis and support services in 2021.
Served in emergency safe shelter in 2021.
Reached in prevention initiatives in 2021.
Our Leadership Team
Rachel VerWys, MSW
Executive Director
Holly Wilson, LMSW
Director of Client Services
Tara Aday, MPA
Senior Program Director
Renee Rivard
Senior Director of Development
Zenaida Jimenez
Director of Housing Services
Tony Tendero, EdD
Fellow in Residence
Board of Directors
Shannon Vinson
President
D.R.I.V.E. Challenge Consultant Firm, LLC
Thelma Ensink
Vice President
Degage Ministries
Danica deWaha
Treasurer
Whirlpool Corporation
Mike Wiese
Secretary
Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge
Chaz Amidon
Palladian West LLC.
Malieka Brown
Grand Rapids Public Schools
Esperanza Degnan
PwC
Joan DeVries
Founding Member
Pastor Shawn May
Seymour Church
Mike Rundhaug
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Allie Walker
Truscott Rossman
