our guiding principles

Individuals and families impacted by domestic abuse have inherently been exposed to traumatic events in their lives. Safe Harbor is committed to providing programs and services that are designed with an understanding of the impact of trauma on individuals and families, as well as a recognition of a survivor’s resiliency and ability to heal. We use a trauma-informed approach to services and community work that aims to support and empower survivors, to respect and honor each individual’s experience and to avoid re-traumatization.

As a trauma-informed agency, Safe Harbor is guided by the following principles:

SAFETY

We acknowledge that healing can only occur within the context of safety. We respect that safety can be determined by each individual. Safe Harbor is committed to providing an environment that is physically, emotionally and psychologically welcoming and safe, responding respectfully to the needs of our community and maximizing each individual’s sense of safety.

trust

Safe Harbor is accountable to our clients, volunteers, staff and community; therefore, we are committed to creating and maintaining their trust through 1) transparency and open communication 2) consistent and respectful services 3) efficient, reliable and innovative systems.

Mutual Support

We believe that individuals can promote growth, resilience, healing for themselves and others through social connection. Safe Harbor provides opportunities and mechanisms for mutual support among survivors and those who work with them.

Collaboration

Domestic abuse is a community problem and requires the collaborative work of our entire community to solve it. Safe Harbor is committed to listening to and building partnerships with traditional and nontraditional allies in the work of ending domestic abuse.

Empowerment, Voice and Choice

Victims of domestic abuse have historically been silenced and denied opportunities to make choices. However, we believe that each survivor has strength and resilience to heal. Safe Harbor’s role is not to control the healing process but to facilitate healing through shared decision making and goal setting, allowing each individual to cultivate their self-advocacy skills and make their own choices.

diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

Safe Harbor champions equity in all public and private responses to domestic violence. We are committed to serving all survivors of domestic abuse regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, culture, gender, sexual identity, age, ability, or faith. We serve the entire community in their individually unique circumstances, and we strive to meet each person in the place from which they can begin their healing journey.  Safe Harbor also cultivates an internal community that honors understanding, compassion, acceptance, and belonging. These values ground our mission to assist and advocate for victims of domestic abuse and their families from all backgrounds and to fulfill our vision to influence a culture where all people feel safe and valued in their relationships.