Circle of Hope Mission and History
Mission Statement
Circle of Hope provides temporary shelter, crisis intervention and comprehensive support services for victims of domestic violence while maintaining confidentiality. Circle of Hope also provides community education and outreach services for the prevention of domestic violence.
History
The Habersham County Task Force on Violence in the Family formed and met in October 1987 to conduct a community needs assessment on the needs of domestic violence victims. The outcome of that meeting was the formation of Circle of Hope. Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit in November, 1987, Circle of Hope set up a telephone line to provide referral services to victims of domestic violence.
Volunteers worked from January 1989 to September 1990 to transform an abandoned farmhouse into a shelter offering a homelike atmosphere to women fleeing dangerous relationships. Two hours after its official opening in September of 1990, the shelter accepted its first resident.
In 1991, Circle of Hope received State licensing from Department of Human Resources, becoming eligible to receive State funding. Ten beds were available for women and children needing a safe place to stay. The thrift store was established in 2001 to increase revenues for the shelter. In 2002, services were initiated to offer comprehensive support services and support groups to Spanish speaking victims of abuse.
In 2002, Circle of Hope enhanced our Outreach Program by opening satellite offices in Stephens and White Counties. Both offices maintain full time advocates who are available to meet with victims of abuse in their County of residence. Comprehensive support services, including legal advocacy and weekly support groups are available in these outreach offices.
In September 2003, a Community Development Block Grant was awarded by Department of Community Affairs allowing Circle of Hope to construct a new 10,000 square foot shelter facility. Construction began in 2004 and in August 2005, the new facility opened. Circle of Hope is currently licensed to house 17 women and children needing a safe place.
October 2003, Circle of Hope initiated a K-12 school based Prevention Program. Curriculums are presented to students to educate them about healthy expression of feelings, bullying, self-esteem issues, and dating violence.
In June 2007, Circle of Hope implemented a transitional housing program. The program utilizes five local apartments and is funded by HUD. Families selected for the program are eligible to participate for 2 years. In addition to paying 30% of their income into a savings account that they have returned to them upon exiting the program, they receive comprehensive support services that help them further their education and overall well-being.