About Us

At Sarah's Friends, we provide a safe refuge for those affected by crime in Williams County. Our services are offered free of charge and are kept strictly confidential to ensure your comfort and privacy.

VISION

To ensure those victimized by crime in Williams County receive compassionate support and individualized services necessary to not feel alone in their journey of healing. To put the power and control back into the victim's hands, allowing them to become an empowered survivor.

MISSION

To empower victims of domestic violence and crime to heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

CORE
VALUES

Collaborative

Compassionate

Diverse & Inclusive

Empowering

Flexible

Trauma-Informed

Our History

Established in April 1991, Sarah's Friends initially served as a haven for child victims of abuse, providing a safe space for interviews with law enforcement and Child Protective Services (CPS). These recorded interviews aimed to reduce the trauma of retelling their experiences.

Over the years, our organization has evolved significantly. By 1996, changes in protocols led to a shift away from conducting interviews at Sarah's Friends. In 1997, after careful consideration, we redefined our mission to focus on addressing violence in Williams County through prevention, education, intervention, and victim assistance. In 2013, our mission expanded to empower victims of domestic violence and crime to heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Throughout our journey, Sarah's Friends has been committed to training, prevention, and support efforts. We've provided training for law enforcement on family violence, implemented evidence-based programs for elementary students, and conducted workshops for HR professionals on domestic violence in the workplace. Support groups for children experiencing divorce, as well as adults navigating through it, have been instrumental in our community. We've offered support groups for women affected by relationship violence and established mentoring programs.

Our advocacy work has been pivotal, particularly for survivors of domestic violence, offering comprehensive support including financial aid, emotional support, and referrals for local resources. In 2001, we initiated a housing program, assisting individuals and families with rental deposits and short-term rental subsidies, primarily aiding women and children escaping dangerous living situations. By 2010, this program expanded into Transitional Housing, now encompassing four active units, providing essential support to those in need.