The SAFE Alliance is a structured partnership between SafePlace and Austin Children’s Shelter, two organizations that serve the survivors of child abuse and neglect, sexual assault and exploitation, and domestic violence.

Our Mission

To lead in ending sexual assault and exploitation, child abuse and domestic violence through prevention, intervention and advocacy for change.

Our Vision

A just and safe community free from violence and abuse.

Our Story

In early 2011, faced with decreasing government funding, an uncertain climate for philanthropy, and shifting state priorities and processes, the leadership of SafePlace and Austin Children’s Shelter began talking about the risks, opportunities and benefits of forming an alliance.

At the same time, long-term research studies were proving what we knew from decades of working with survivors:  domestic violence and child abuse often happen in the same families and are highly associated with the same risk factors (Minnesota Center Against Violence and Abuse).

The two agencies spent the next year investigating the implications of an alliance to their programs, budgets, bylaws, licenses and existing agreements. In 2012, SAFE | Stop Abuse for Everyone applied for independent 501(c)(3) status, and in January 2013 began to provide coordinated planning, HR, finance, operations, development, and other administrative functions to both organizations.

Long-term research studies have shown us the connection between child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Working together, we are developing programs and systems with the purpose to end abuse, through community partnerships, education, training, and advocacy.

Our first project together was the expansion of the George M. Kozmetsky Charter School. Located on the SafePlace campus, the school serves children in grades K-8 staying in the Kelly White Emergency Shelter or supportive housing with their custodial parent. In September 2012, the school expanded to K-12 and welcomed the students from Austin Children’s Shelter. With teachers who receive ongoing training in working with survivors of trauma, the school offers the children and teens in our care a supportive environment and an individualized course of study.