Harbour House Newsletter
Quote of the Week:
“Safety plans save lives. They are crafted not out of fear but out of a deep desire for freedom and protection.”
-Sandra Horley
Safety Planning for Holidays from thehotline.org
Holidays are often a time of joy and community, but for people with an abusive partner, the holidays (or even a long weekend) can be stressful and dangerous. Spending time with family and friends, dealing with extra stress, and traveling can challenge safety planning during any holiday or long weekend. Family and friends may struggle to help or support the survivor during this time. We suggest safety planning for holidays and weekends to help families and survivors feel safer during these moments.
Volunteer Opportunities:
With the holiday season approaching, we’re excited to share an opportunity to represent Harbor House in upcoming holiday parades:
• Watseka Annual Lighted Christmas Parade November, 29, 2024 Sign Up Here
• Bradley Christmas Parade December 6, 2024 Sign Up Here
• Kankakee Christmas Parade December 14, 2024 Sign Up Here
Volunteering at these events is a wonderful way to connect with the community, spread holiday cheer, and raise awareness about our work. Whether you’d like to help decorate the float, walk with us, or hand out information, we’d love to have you join us. If you're interested, please click the button below to contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Sharon!
Advocates in Action: Jenny
We’re honored to spotlight Jenny, the Executive Director and CEO of Harbor House. For the past six years, Jenny’s leadership has been the driving force behind our mission to support and empower survivors of domestic violence. With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to advocacy, she has guided Harbor House through significant growth and meaningful change, ensuring that our services remain accessible and impactful.
Jenny’s strategic initiatives and compassionate leadership have strengthened community partnerships and expanded our reach, fostering a safer and more informed community. Her dedication to creating a supportive environment for both staff and clients alike has left an indelible mark on Harbor House. Read on to learn more about Jenny’s inspiring leadership and the profound impact she continues to have on our organization and the survivors we serve.
What do you find most rewarding about your role with Harbor House?
Empowering staff to provide the best care, resources, and information to survivors, our community, and each other.
Do you prefer beach or mountain vacations?
Mountains any day of the week because I love to hike. However, I will definitely take mountains next to beaches.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or work with the agency?
Serving as Harbor House's fourth Executive Director and CEO has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. The survivors with whom we work never cease to amaze me with their creativity, strength, and courage. The staff are incredible and teach me new things daily. Our community is supportive and advocates alongside us. I'm grateful for this opportunity to work with so many people passionate about ending domestic violence!