Annual Report 2023

BUILDING BRIDGES, CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

Our Mission:

The mission of Safe Harbor Center, Inc. is to provide services that promote security and stability for at-risk families, children, and individuals.

Our Core Values:

• The children, individuals, and families served come first in everything we do.

• Commitment to excellence and professionalism are key tenets at all levels of our organization.

• We are one team, with one mission, working together.

• Collaboration and partnership within our organization and with others who share our vision and values are keys to our sustained success.

• Integrity, honesty, and ethical behavior guide all our endeavors.

• Diversity of ideas, cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds strengthen our efforts.

• Financial strength enables us to accomplish our goals.

As we wrap up our fiscal year, we are thrilled to present our annual report, highlighting the incredible impact of your generosity. Thanks to your support, we have been able to positively impact the lives of

2,842 children & families

in Coastal Georgia, building bridges and connecting communities along the way. Together, we can continue to make a lasting difference. Thank you for being a part of our journey.

Board of Directors

Welcome

Leslie Hartman • Executive Director

As we reflect on our thirty-second year at Safe Harbor Center, the overarching theme has been growth: community growth, organizational growth, and most importantly the growth of our impact. The stories featured in our 2023 annual report showcase the strength of Safe Harbor and our community supporters in driving this progress. Together, we stand side by side, building bridges and connecting communities to create a powerful network that opens doors of opportunity to those we serve.

The support from our donors is life changing. For those who once felt alone or unguided, you have offered them a helping hand and a path towards a brighter future. Your care speaks volumes, echoing the heart of our compassionate community.

It has been my pleasure to grow with Safe Harbor Center for the last sixteen years. Long before I was the Executive Director, I began my journey with Safe Harbor as a licensed professional counselor, at a time when our organization was only operating two programs.

Since Safe Harbor’s early days, we have expanded to operate seven unique programs that service communities across Coastal Georgia. This past year, we have touched the lives of over 2,800 individuals, reaching more communities than ever before. Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our services inland across Southern Georgia, to support even the most rural and resource-limited areas.

Many milestones have been reached this year, including our expansion into five additional counties, the groundbreaking for three new offices for our Street Beat Program, and the launch of our inaugural event, Champions for Children, where this community united to raise recordbreaking funds. Throughout this year we have had numerous, meaningful collaborations with local businesses, bringing experiences and joy to our children in residence.

Simply put, none of this would have been possible without you. Every step we take today leads us toward a brighter tomorrow. Your support helps us build a future where the families and children we serve have every chance to succeed. Thank you for being a part of this journey. Together, we will continue to grow, empowering lives and making a difference.

Warmest regards,

Executive Director

Peter Feininger Chairman

Michael Scherneck Treasurer

Mary Schellhorn Secretary

Courtlyn Cook

Lori Crispo

Senetra Haywood, ED

Michael Kaufman

Carrie Lewis

Todd McGarrity

Yolanda Richardson

Michael Robinson

Dr. Shirley Wilson, MD

Executive Staff

Leslie Hartman Executive Director

Michelle Fasig Director of Development & Marketing

Jenna Lightfoot Office Manager

Hillary Johnston Volunteer Coordinator & Thrift Shop Manager

Andrea Belton

Director, Children’s Advocacy Center & Connie Smith

Rape Crisis Center

Alician Black

Director, Family Preservation

Jeff Clark

Director, Street Beat

Dr. Sherzine McKenzie

Director, Children’s Center

Chelsea Parker Director, Zach’s Place

Dr. Laura Ridings

Director, STRIVE Transitional Living Services

(As of June 30, 2023)

harbor

safe Safe Harbor Center… powered by seven dynamic programs

Established in 1991, Safe Harbor Center, Inc. is a nationally recognized leader among nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving children, families, and individuals who have been abused, abandoned or neglected; who are homeless or have run away from home, and who are otherwise at risk or feel threatened.

Safe Harbor’s mission is to provide services that promote security and stability for at-risk families, children, and individuals. That mission is powered by seven dynamic programs:

Safe Harbor Children’s Center serves children, ages birth to 18, who have been removed from dangerous situations as a result of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. As a long-term residential shelter, the center provides nurturing care, medical and dental services, academic support, and therapeutic counseling in a loving home-like environment.

STRIVE Transitional Living Services makes available the needed support for youth who are most at-risk to experience violence, trafficking, unemployment, homelessness, incomplete education, drug addiction, pregnancy, and poverty. Services are designed to help young people make a successful transition to selfsufficient living while providing a safe living environment.

Zach’s Place is an emergency shelter providing for the immediate needs of homeless and runaway children and youth up to age 18 in Glynn County, Georgia. At Zach’s Place, children and youth receive safe, temporary housing, food, clothing, medical care, counseling, and the encouragement to fulfill their potential and successfully contribute to society.

The Family Preservation Program is designed to help parents and caregivers in crisis to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the needs of their children in a safe, positive, and healthy manner. Services include case management, service coordination, advocacy, transportation, individual and family counseling, home and center-based parent education, and life skills training.

Safe Harbor Children’s Advocacy Centers are safe, child-focused environments for children who disclose sexual assault, physical abuse, neglect, or have observed violence and/or abuse of another person. To reduce the trauma of victims and their families, the centers utilize a multidisciplinary team approach for the identification, investigation, prosecution, treatment, and prevention of child abuse.

The Connie Smith Rape Crisis Centers provide valuable services to support the physical and emotional healing of sexual assault victims and their families. With locations in Glynn, Appling, Camden, and Wayne Counties, center services include forensic interviews, forensic medical examinations, follow up medical services, 24-hour crisis line, crisis intervention, advocacy services, and therapeutic counseling.

Street Beat addresses the needs of runaway, homeless and street youth and their families by providing services that promote safety, well-being, self sufficiency and permanent connections with caring adults. Street Beat not only helps youth leave the streets, but also assists them in moving and adjusting to a safe and appropriate living arrangement.

126

RUNAWAY & HOMELESS CHILDREN and youth were served at Zach’s Place

253

HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS & YOUTH,

In the past year, Street Beat's Street Outreach Team successfully connected with of which 153 were between the ages 0-24. The team also distributed 2,800 hygiene kits and provided food to 1,700 individuals and families in need.

The Family Preservation Program achieved a 94% success rate, serving 99 families and caregivers in the past year, resulting in 183 children safely residing in their homes without displacement.

How Lily Found Hope

When nine-year-old Lily stepped into Safe Harbor Children's Advocacy Center, the toll of her trauma was evident in her undernourished body. She carried the weight of her fear and anxiety, desperately needing the compassionate support of Safe Harbor staff.

Lily's life had been scarred by severe abuse and neglect before finding hope at Safe Harbor. She lived in squalor, with trash and debris throughout the environment. Often left to fend for herself, Lily survived on meager meals of macaroni and ramen noodles, when they were available. While she should have been attending the 4th grade, being introduced to fractions for the first time, Lily focused each day on surviving.

Lily’s anxiety was palpable, making it challenging for her to tell her story. She clung to deep-seated fears that her father, the alleged abuser, would intervene and prevent her from speaking out. However, the Children’s Advocacy Center staff reassured her that she was surrounded by caring professionals dedicated to her safety and well-being.

Despite the reassurance from the staff, Lily's uncertainty persisted. But just as she seemed on the brink of emotional shutdown, the officers from the local police department

arrived, accompanied by a furry, four-legged companion, ready to help Lily conquer her fears through the power of play. As Lily gently stroked her canine friend, a sense of calm washed over her, allowing her to find the strength to complete her forensic interview.

Safe Harbor Children's Advocacy Centers are a crucial resource in providing comprehensive support and healing for children who have experienced abuse or trauma. These centers offer a child-friendly and safe environment where young victims can receive specialized services.

Safe Harbor Children’s Advocacy Center staff possess a wealth of techniques to support abuse victims, but there are times when unconventional measures are required. It is in these moments that we witness the awe-inspiring ability of animals to become a lifeline for victims. Through its partnership with law enforcement, Safe Harbor ensured that Lily could work through her pain and begin constructing a brighter future.

The centers employ a multidisciplinary team approach, comprised of trained professionals, such as law enforcement personnel, child protective services, medical providers, therapists, and advocates.

449 victims of child abuse served - ages 0-18

301 Physical Abuse

Child Sexual Abuse

53 76

9 10

Human Trafficking Neglect

Other

ex: assault, infant death, drug endangerment, emotional abuse, child pornography

What is a Multidisciplinary Team?

The multidisciplinary team (MDT) for the Children’s Advocacy Centers are a group of professionals from different fields who work together throughout the course of the case to provide a coordinated and child-friendly response to victims of child abuse or neglect, ensuring that the child's needs are met effectively and sensitively. Safe Harbor Children's Advocacy Centers play a pivotal role in empowering young survivors and their families on their path to recovery, offering hope and assistance during what can be a difficult and distressing time

When child abuse is reported, a multidisciplinary team is called into action. The team consists of representatives from:

• Law Enforcement

• Forensic Interview Services

• Medical Services

• Mental Health Services

• District Attorney’s Office

• Family & Victim Advocacy Services

• Division of Family & Children Services

Law Enforcement: Responds to reports of child abuse, investigates the allegations in conjunction with Division of Family and Children Services, and makes arrests when appropriate.

District Attorney’s Office: Reviews cases with members of the Multidisciplinary Team to guide the child abuse investigation and criminal justice process, and linkage to community resources.

Family & Victim Advocacy Services: Provides evidencebased and trauma-focused mental health treatment to children who have experienced abuse and other traumatizing events.

Medical Services: Provides non-invasive physical exams for children with allegations or concerns of abuse.

Forensic Interview Services: Interviews children who may have experienced abuse, using a nationallyrecognized forensic interview model developed by National Children’s Alliance. Mental Health Services: Provides children and their families/caregivers with support and education about the investigation and criminal justice process, and linkage to community resources.

Division of Family & Children Services: Responds to reports of child abuse, investigates the allegations in conjunction with law enforcement, and works to ensure children are safe.

A New Beginning: Sienna’s Path to Healing

Moving to a new city, let alone a new state, is never easy for anyone. However, love can be a powerful motivator. Nineteen-year-old Sienna was ready to pack up her belongings in search of a new life with a man she had met on a popular dating site. Having endured a difficult life in recent years, she was excited to leave it all behind, in pursuit of a fresh start with her newfound love. Sienna dreamed of making new friends, building a home, and finding peace in a quiet coastal town. Little did she know that her encounter with romance in this new place would turn out to be far from what she had imagined. Over a period of several months, the man Sienna had believed was her modern-day prince charming trapped her in a violent cycle of emotional and physical abuse.

Fortunately, Sienna had recently seen a pamphlet describing the services offered at Safe Harbor Connie Smith Rape Crisis Center and found her way to the program’s doors. Safe Harbor offered the comprehensive care and assistance she desperately needed to begin her healing journey.

Recognizing Sienna’s distress and vulnerability, Safe Harbor staff took action to ensure her safety and wellbeing. The first priority was addressing her medical needs. Safe Harbor’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner immediately conducted a thorough forensic medical exam, documenting her injuries and gathering vital evidence.

Safe Harbor’s support extends beyond medical intervention, and Sienna was paired with a victim advocate who accompanied her throughout her healing process. This advocate became her ally, guiding her through the complex web of services and resources available to survivors. Collaborating with Fair Haven and the Screven Police Department, Safe Harbor’s team orchestrated a tailored support network to meet Sienna’s needs.

Fair Haven coordinated essential mental health services through a local mental health agency where Sienna gained access to counseling and therapy, providing her with the necessary tools to address the trauma she had experienced. Additionally, legal advocates supported Sienna in obtaining a temporary protective order, ensuring her safety throughout the separation process.

Through the combined efforts of Safe Harbor Connie Smith Rape Crisis Center, Fair Haven, and the local authorities, Sienna regained her sense of safety and wholeness. The

tragic events that had unfolded did not deter her from continuing her path forward.

As Sienna awaited the trial of her abuser, she was surrounded by a strong network of advocates who had become her extended family. With her abuser unable to contact her, Sienna was able to focus on herself and make remarkable progress. Safe Harbor Connie Smith Rape Crisis Center and its partners equipped Sienna with the tools and resources necessary to overcome her trauma and to continue to build a new, safe life.

A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) is a specialized registered nurse who has received additional training to provide comprehensive care to sexual assault survivors. These highly trained nurses have expertise in conducting forensic examinations, collecting evidence, and providing trauma-informed care.

Safe Harbor Connie Smith Rape Crisis Center employs a full time SANE who travels between our centers to conduct vital forensic examinations. With the continuous demand for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE), Safe Harbor collaborates with The Texas Center of Forensic Excellence.

While Safe Harbor Connie Smith Rape Crisis Centers are located in Coastal Georgia, The Texas Center of Forensic Excellence stands as an accredited forensic nursing training center by the International Association of Forensic Nurses, offering a rare opportunity for dual training encompassing both pediatric and adult populations simultaneously.

The Texas Center of Forensic Excellence offers a comprehensive and innovative Virtual Dual Training Program for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners. This program equips nurses with the necessary skills and expertise to effectively address cases of sexual assault. With the Virtual Dual Training Program, the Texas Center of Forensic Excellence empowers SANE nurses to play a crucial role in supporting survivors and achieving justice in forensic investigations.

Once these nurses have completed their virtual training, they engage in hands-on learning with Safe Harbor’s fulltime SANE. This practical experience further enhances their expertise and ensures they are fully prepared to independently conduct forensic medical examinations.

With this collaborative effort between Safe Harbor and The Texas Center of Forensic Excellence, more skilled and dedicated SANE nurses are ready to stand at the forefront in supporting survivors and promoting justice for victims of sexual assault.

Overcoming Obstacles: Lina’s Graduation Story

Safe Harbor received a call from a concerned adult about Lina, a 17-year-old girl in a challenging home situation. Safe Harbor staff realized Lina required specialized support. With no stable place to go, she faced the grim prospect of homelessness. Safe Harbor stepped in to take her under their care, offering her a bed at Zach’s Place, Safe Harbor’s short-term youth homeless shelter.

Zach’s Place provides support for 21 days, making discharge planning a crucial part of ensuring Lina's ongoing success. It was during this process that the team identified the benefits of entering her in Safe Harbor’s STRIVE Transitional Living Program, a program that could further aid her development and growth, and help her to develop the skills necessary for independence.

Lina had faced challenges in attending school consistently at her previous placement in a neighboring town. To ensure her educational success and a path to graduation, it was decided that she would transfer to Glynn Academy. The staff at STRIVE knew that with the right support, Lina could overcome her academic challenges.

As anticipated, the road to graduation was not without hurdles. Lina's disabilities made schooling particularly challenging, with literacy being an area of concern, especially spelling and writing. STRIVE staff recognized the importance of addressing these difficulties headon. They worked to improve Lina's literacy skills, collaborating with Glynn Academy and tutoring services to provide targeted support for her writing.

Through hard work and determination, Lina overcame her literacy challenges and improved her school attendance. It was clear that with STRIVE’s intervention, she was on the path to graduation.

Finally, the day arrived when Lina proudly stood among her peers as a graduate of Glynn Academy. With the assistance of STRIVE Transitional Living Program, Lina not only earned her diploma but also found renewed confidence in her own abilities and potential.

STRIVE Transitional Living Services

empowers and supports young adults aged 16 to 24 as they transition into independent living, offering comprehensive assistance to those facing homelessness, housing instability, or other challenges. within a safe and nurturing environment,

STRIVE guided

113 participants

n developing essential life skills, pursuing education, vocational training, and exploring employment opportunities over the past year.

The much-anticipated Designer Handbag Bingo made its return for the third year at Frederica Golf Club, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of over 200 attendees eager to participate in an afternoon of fun and excitement. This year’s event was a sell-out, with attendees competing for the chance to win designer and higher-end handbags, all while enjoying catered wine and hor d’oeuvres. Beyond the bingo game, attendees engaged in a silent auction, vying for pieces to add to their collections. Exquisite floral handbag centerpieces additionally became a coveted feature, with spirited bidding for the chance to take one home.

Additionally, the 2023 event offered a unique opportunity for attendees to hear the testimony from one of Safe Harbor’s current clients, sharing her hardships, her journey, and the life-transforming impact of the organization’s programs. This touching experience inspired the community even further, leading to a continued outpouring of generosity. The event raised an impressive $15,000 in ticket sales, and in the weeks that followed, an additional $28,000 was generously donated.

With the event’s increasing success, the Designer Handbag Bingo Committee, Timme Feininger, Alice Selman, Ryan Butler, Hillary Johnston, and Carolyn Trueblood, are excited to announce the 2024 event will be hosted in the newly completed Outdoor Pavilion at Frederica, offering an even more inviting space to accommodate the event.

Mark your calendars for the first Sunday in February 2024, with tickets available for purchase in December 2023 –the perfect holiday gift opportunity. Act quickly, as ticket sales are limited, and updates will be shared on our social media pages. Don’t miss the chance to experience an afternoon of fashion and philanthropy, all in support of Safe Harbor’s vital mission.

Safe Harbor's Champions for Children Campaign achieved remarkable success, raising over $140,000 in its inaugural year. The campaign showcased the efforts of 17 community leaders who participated in a 7-week fundraising competition. The campaign commenced with a memorable event at Ocean Forest Golf Club on Sea Island.

Throughout the weeks that followed, the Champions employed a variety of innovative fundraising strategies, including engaging micro-events, such as silent auctions, sip and shops, cocktail parties, catered dinners, exclusive after-hours tours of Safe Harbor programs, register round-ups, and on-site service days with the children in-residence.

The Grand Finale held at downtown Brunswick's Queen and Grant venue was an evening filled with live entertainment, food and drinks catered by local food purveyor, Schroeder's Market, and an on-site donation station with live tracking. The event culminated in an exciting awards ceremony to crown the Ultimate Champion for Children as well as present awards for various categories, including most funds raised, most unique micro-event, largest social media reach, and most unique campaign overall.

Champions for Children Campaign Committee Chairs: Kate Dart, Bentley Kaufman, & Elizabeth Piazza

The nomination period for the 2024 Champions will commence in October, and the final selection of Champions is expected to be completed by the end of January.

Building upon the invaluable support and insights from the 2023 Champions, the 2024 campaign is anticipated to be even bigger, more exciting, and more creative, extending its reach to more counties and communities served by Safe Harbor.

Community Collaboration: Max’s Bowling Outing

Max had always wanted to go bowling, but prior to coming into the care of Division of Family & Children Serivces, he had little opportunity to experience the joys of childhood. When Corinthian Foods asked how they could connect with the youth at the Children’s Center, a bowling outing seemed like the perfect opportunity.

This community-oriented local company organized a special outing for Max and all 24 of the children at Safe Harbor Children’s Center. The staff accompanied the children to join in on the fun and provide support for an afternoon of competitive bowling, arcade games, and pizza.

Max learned that no request is out of the realm of possibility with the right people, the right care and the right support in place.

The story of Max’s longawaited bowling experience is a testament to the impact of collaboration and community support. It highlights what can be achieved when individuals and organizations unite to make dreams come true.

CORPORATE PARTNER: Corinthian Foods

has created invaluable memories with the children of Safe Harbor over the course of 2023; organizing activities like mini golf, birdhouse decorating, holiday cookie art and pumpkin painting. Additionally, recognizing the significance of education, Corinthian Foods generously donated backpacks filled with school supplies. This gesture guarantees that every child starts the school year fully equipped with the necessary items to support their academic success.

Summer by

Thanks to Rich Products Corporation's generous sponsorship, our children had an unforgettable summer during the "Summer by Rich's" trip to Atlanta. The action-packed two-day itinerary featured a perfect blend of educational outings and exciting adventures, including visits to National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Six Flags over Georgia, Centennial Olympic Park and The Georgia Aquarium.

This partnership was made possible with the support of Shannon Gilreath, one of the 2023 Champions for Children and the Senior Vice President of Consumer Brands at Rich Products Corporation.

Keller Williams Golden Isles Realty joined forces to create a thrilling end-of-summer carnival for the children of Safe Harbor. Teaming up with local food vendors Messy Buns, Kona Ice, and Fuse, the kids indulged in an array of carnival-inspired sweets and treats. DJ Mike Hall of Island Sound kept the party moving with festive tunes while the kids enjoyed various booths and games, eagerly competing for prizes at the prize tent.

In addition to the exciting carnival, the team at Keller Williams Golden Isles Realty presented all 24

residents with custom gift baskets filled with goodies like movie gift cards, blankets, candies, and more. The outdoor supply bin was also restocked with new basketballs, soccer balls, and footballs, adding to the children’s enjoyment.

The dedicated staff of Keller Williams Golden Isles Realty continued to go above and beyond by refreshing our Children’s Residence, giving the rooms a much-needed facelift with fresh coats of paint.

Our appreciation goes out to Keller Williams Golden Isles Realty for their gracious contributions, and the new partnership created with the help of 2023 Champion for Children, Amber Gastwirth, Chief Financial Officer at KW Golden Isles Keller Williams Realty.

LOOKING INTO THE

Future

As Safe Harbor looks towards the future, we are committed to expanding our services inland, reaching out to rural areas to support homeless, neglected, and abandoned youth aged 18-24. The Coastal Coordinated Entry system has already made a significant impact, serving 1,224 individuals in the past year, with 550 of them falling between the ages of 0-17.

Our growth inland brings a new endeavor: The South Georgia Coordinated Entry System. This clientcentered process streamlines access to the most appropriate housing intervention for each person experiencing homelessness in additional counties such as Long, Tombs and Statesboro. This system prioritizes clients based on vulnerability, utilizing data-driven, real-time processes to ensure the right type and level

of services and housing supports for their needs. Encouraging resource coordination among service providers, the Coordinated Entry system ensures strategic and equitable distribution of limited resources across the region.

HOMELESS CONTINUUM South Georgia

SOUTH GEORGIA COORDINATED ENTRY SYSTEM

As we move into our 32nd year, we recognize that change is the only constant. In the nonprofit landscape, the methods of engaging with donors, members, volunteers, and supporters are constantly evolving. Embracing this transformation, we are excited to collaborate with Feathr, a digital marketing platform, to amplify our message and mission, reaching a wider audience.

In today’s world, people seek meaning, purpose, and connection, and as a mission-driven organization, we have the privilege of uniting individuals with a larger purpose. Our focus lies in narrating the story of our cause and our community, connecting with a broader audience to build meaningful relationships and create a lasting impact. Through digital marketing, we are poised to expand our outreach, enabling more individuals to become a part of our shared journey.

FY 2023 FINANCIAL SUMMARY

At Safe Harbor Center, our financial strength is directly tied to the dedication and generosity of our donors. We understand that building trust through organizational and financial transparency is at the core of charitable giving.

Sources of Funding:

Federal Grants:

$2,703,526

Contributions: $817,021

Program Remuneration: $1,640,552

Uses of Funding:

Programs & Services: 90%

Administrative: 6% Marketing: 4%

In the fiscal year of 2023, 90% of gifts went directly to the care of children and programs benefiting their overall development, far exceeding the 65% standard set forth under the national ethical guidelines.