We are excited to introduce you to our April Nonprofit Spotlight, A Safe Place. Kristine Stolfi, Director of Marketing and Donor Stewardship, chats with us about the organization and how they are making a difference in our community.
Tell us about a Safe Place.
A Safe Place provides supportive services to Survivors of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking, empowering them to rebuild their lives and overcome the challenges they face after these experiences. Mission A Safe Place is the leading advocate for eliminating domestic violence & human trafficking in northern Illinois. Philosophy A Safe Place provides a 24-hour crisis line, case management, legal advocacy, emergency shelter, individual and group therapy, art therapy, affordable transitional and permanent housing, scattered site housing, outreach and supportive services to survivors of domestic violence & human trafficking and their children, mentoring for adolescent boys, supervised custody exchanges, supervised family visitations, education for teens on healthy relationships, community and professional education, and intervention services for abusers to learn accountability for their choices and actions. Our mission-focused work is guided by our philosophy.
When was your nonprofit founded, and by whom?
A Safe Place in Zion, IL, was founded in 1978. It is the sole provider of services exclusively addressing domestic violence in Lake County.
What inspired the creation of your organization?
The need within our community.
What areas do you serve? Who do you serve in our community?
While Lake County is our primary service area, our reach extends beyond—serving communities throughout Northern Illinois and surrounding areas, including Southeast Wisconsin.
We serve anyone that is a survivor of domestic violence and human trafficking.
What programs/services do you offer?
A Safe Place provides a 24-hour crisis line, case management, legal advocacy, emergency shelter, individual and group therapy, art therapy, affordable transitional and permanent housing, scattered site housing, outreach and supportive services to survivors of domestic violence & human trafficking and their children, mentoring for adolescent boys, supervised custody exchanges, supervised family visitations, education for teens on healthy relationships, community and professional education, and intervention services for abusers to learn accountability for their choices and actions
How has your organization grown or evolved over the years?
Over the years, A Safe Place has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of survivors and our community. We have expanded our services beyond crisis intervention, shelter, therapy and legal support to include youth programs, prevention education, and community outreach. Our shelter and support programs have grown to accommodate more survivors, and we have strengthened partnerships with local organizations, medical providers to provide a more comprehensive network of care.
We do offer shelter for the survivors and their pets, so they don’t have to leave them behind or must choose between safety and their pets.
Can you share a success story that represents your impact?
Many stories are very similar. Survivors come to A Safe Place feeling scared and unsure of where to turn, often after experiencing years of domestic violence. With our support, they are able to find safe shelter, access counseling, and take legal steps to protect themselves and their children. Over time, they regain confidence, rebuild independence, and create safe, stable lives for their families. These stories show the real, life-changing impact of our work. Every service, every resource, and every moment of support helps survivors reclaim their safety and their future.
What is the biggest need you are addressing right now?
Right now, our biggest challenge is the recent federal funding cuts. These cuts directly impact the critical services we provide, including safe shelter, counseling, advocacy, and prevention programs. Without this support, we are forced to make difficult decisions, and some survivors may not get the help they urgently need. This makes community support more important than ever. Donations, volunteering, and spreading awareness allow us to continue protecting and empowering survivors, despite these funding challenges.
What is the most rewarding part of this work?
The most rewarding part of the work at A Safe Place is seeing lives change. It is helping survivors feel safe, supported, and in control again. It is being there for that first brave step, whether that means seeking help, sharing their story, or starting over. It is also the ripple effect. When one person breaks the cycle of violence, it impacts families and future generations. And just as meaningful is the support of the community. Donors, volunteers, and partners make this work possible and help us reach more survivors. It is the small, everyday moments that matter most. A client realizing they are not alone. A child feeling safe. A survivor gaining confidence. Those moments are why our work matters.
How can individuals/families help?
Individuals and families can help in meaningful ways. They can donate essential items, funds, or resources that directly support survivors and their children. They can volunteer their time, whether it is helping at events, organizing drives, or offering professional skills. They can raise awareness by sharing information (including our social media posts) about domestic violence and human trafficking, helping others understand the issue and know where to turn for help. Simply showing support by listening, believing, and standing with survivors makes a lasting difference. Every action, big or small, contributes to creating a safer, stronger community.
Do you have any upcoming events we should be aware of?
- EmpoweRun/Walk 5K – May 2, 2026
- Wine, Women and Shoes – May 15, 2026
- Drive out Domestic Violence Golf Outing on August, 17, 2026
- Unmask the Violence Gala on October 24, 2026
- And our Third Party Event – EmpoweRally Volleyball Tournament that will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026
- To check out all events, please visit our special events page.
