St. Jude House Family Violence Prevention Center and Shelter (SJH) in Crown Point has been an anchor in the community since 1995, providing shelter, basic needs, and dynamic programming to victims of domestic violence at no cost.
“Helping victims of domestic violence transform themselves into survivors affects people in a deep and heartfelt way,” said Val Lay, SJH Director of Development. “Being a part of that process inspires generosity and opens hearts.”
A key part of SJH’s mission to ameliorate domestic violence has been establishing partnerships within the community that help strengthen its impact. The resulting funds go toward the shelter and wellbeing of clients.
“We have built effective partnerships with statewide coalitions, local and regional service providers, and government agencies to create a strong network of resources,” Lay said. “We are proactive in seeking new opportunities for programs to meet the needs of our clients and Indiana communities.”
These relationships are fostered through the SJH Community Partners Program. This is a great opportunity for community organizations to become engaged in a meaningful way with the mission of transforming victims of domestic violence into survivors. The program offers an avenue for local businesses to be involved in addressing the inherent issues of domestic violence, and aid SJH staff in supporting domestic violence survivors and their children.
“As a nonprofit organization, support from the community is critical in helping us provide safety and programming for our clients,” said Ryan Elinkowski, Director of SJH. “St. Jude House cannot eradicate domestic violence, but together we can be part of transforming lives.”
Current SJH Community Partners include Strack and Van Til, Centier Bank, Ameriprise Financial, All Square Roofing, First Savings Bank of Hegewisch, LoanUsMoney.com, Ozinga, The Sandbar Grill, H & R Block, Crown Brewing, Realest, Hubinger Landscaping, and The Dawn Brancheau Foundation. All partners will be recognized in the annual St. Jude House Impact Report, and acknowledged on the SJH website, social media platforms, and printed marketing materials.
“We have 13 community partners now, and seven businesses have joined us this year,” Lay said. “We are starting the second year of this program and are thrilled to have renewals from Strack & Van Til, Ameriprise Financial, and Centier Bank!”
The Dawn Brancheau Foundation was among the new additions to the program in 2019.
“The Dawn Brancheau Foundation is excited to be a Community Partner and continue community service projects, in memory of Dawn, to help improve the lives of children while at St. Jude House,” said Darlyne Klages, sister of Dawn Brancheau.
The Sandbar Grill is also a new partner. Owner Mike Conn was impressed to see what SJH has to offer during an eye-opening tour of the facility.
“When the power of love is greater than the love of power, the world will know peace,” Conn said. “We are happy to be a partner and support the efforts of helping those in need.”
The St. Jude House Community Partners Program offers six levels of engagement. Any level of partnership is greatly appreciated by SJH staff and clients.
“We are very grateful for all of our partners,” Lay said. “We cannot do this work without strong community support.”
To learn more about St. Jude House or to become a partner, visit https://www.stjudehouse.org/ or contact Val Lay at vlay@stjudehouse.org