Mission Statement

Haven House is dedicated to the elimination of violence against survivors through empowerment, education, social action, and support services.

History

 1978- Haven House Family Service Center was formed in Wayne, Nebraska.  The agency was an outcome of a seminar conducted jointly by the American Association of University Women and Wayne State College staff which determined a need for services for victims of domestic violence and their children. The Wayne PD was the after-hours contact in the early years and continues to serve as the answering service today.

1979- Haven House was incorporated as a non-profit agency under the laws of the State of Nebraska.  A Board of Directors was established and a part-time coordinator and secretary were hired.  The first board directors were Robert Ensz, Cheryl Beamer, Ann O¹Donnell, Marquerite Plattner, Pat Meirhenry, Marie Hagemann and Galen Wiser. Original funding was from private donations and the Department of Public Welfare.  A twenty-four hour hotline was established, volunteers were trained, and temporary shelter was provided in local motels.  Victims of domestic violence were able to receive emergency financial aid, food, clothing, access to medical services, transportation, emergency legal counseling, emotional support and referrals to established shelters in other communities and other agencies.  Community education and prevention were emphasized from the beginning of Haven House and continue to be important today.