The Movement Against
Domestic and Sexual Violence
in Shawano County

1989 — A Spark of Hope

In the basement of Zion Lutheran Church, a small group of courageous women launched F.A.C.E.S., determined to break the silence and the cycle of domestic violence in Shawano County—then the only county in Wisconsin without services for victims. They offered what they could: legal guidance, emotional support, and hope.

1992 — Becoming a Voice

The movement became official. On October 27, F.A.C.E.S. incorporated as a nonprofit with a 3-member board. Though still volunteer-led, the group expanded services—launching a 24-hour crisis line, offering safe homes, and creating weekly support groups. That year, they helped 25 survivors—proving the desperate need for these services.

1993–1994 — Finding a Home

Office space was secured and the first volunteer staff managed daily operations. By 1994, F.A.C.E.S. moved into the Shawano County Courthouse, making it easier for survivors to find help. Most importantly, the organization hired its first Executive Director, marking a new era of structure and stability.

1996–1998 — Growing Impact

A federal grant brought the first Legal Advocate on staff, and volunteer support remained strong. In 1997, F.A.C.E.S. served 385 clients, a staggering increase. In 1998, the group renamed itself the Domestic Abuse Support Center of Shawano County (DASC) to better reflect its expanding role, and a toll-free line ensured survivors in rural areas could call for help.

1999–2002 — Turning Vision Into Reality

Fueled by community generosity and a powerful dream, a capital campaign was launched to build a real shelter. In 2001, land was purchased. On February 11, 2002, the shelter doors opened—and by 9:00 a.m., the first family arrived, seeking safety and a new beginning.

2003–2004 — A New Chapter

The shelter quickly became a lifeline. A Sexual Assault Advocate and Children’s Advocate were added, meeting survivors where they were—with compassion and care. In 2004, a new name emerged: Safe Haven. The mission was also renewed: to build a safe community through shelter, advocacy, and education.

2008 — Meeting Survivors Where They Are

Recognizing the need for specialized medical care, Safe Haven partnered with local healthcare providers and the Stockbridge-Munsee Tribe to bring the SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) program to Shawano. Survivors no longer had to leave their community to be treated with dignity and care. Though the program ended in 2016 due to system-wide changes, its impact remains.

2009–2012 — Built With Community Hands

When nearby land was donated by Goodwill, a Boy Scout cleared it for his Eagle Scout project. In partnership with Shawano High School’s Building Trades program, a 2,000 sq ft garage was constructed—proof that everyone, no matter their age, can help build safety. In 2012, Safe Haven celebrated 10 years of shelter operations and 20 years as a nonprofit, marking the milestones with pride.

2013–2015 — Strengthening the Mission

Leaders gathered in 2013 to reflect, reimagine, and set bold goals. The mission and vision were revised to include sexual assault programming and a clearer commitment to healing. Thanks to new funding, facility upgrades made the shelter more comfortable and functional for families and children.

2016–2017 — Enhancing Services

Safe Haven expanded its staff to better serve survivors holistically. The new Program Services Supervisor/Counselor brought licensed clinical expertise to the team, while the Family Services Advocate focused on family healing and parenting support. New programming like Voices of Men and the Lethality Assessment Program launched, engaging men and law enforcement to prevent domestic violence homicides and build a more compassionate community.

2017–2019 — Breaking New Ground

As the shelter filled night after night, the need for expansion became clear. The "Breaking New Ground" campaign raised $425,000 to add more shelter rooms, community space, and private meeting areas. Construction finished in late 2018, and the impact was immediate. More families found a safe place to heal, and outreach participants now had a welcoming, confidential space to connect with advocates.

2019–2020 — Growing With Purpose

VOCA funding increased, allowing for the creation of a Lead Advocate role and expansion of the Administrative Assistant position to include Volunteer Coordination. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Though the world shut down, Safe Haven didn’t. Staff adapted quickly—offering shelter through hotels, distributing thousands of essentials, and maintaining vital services for survivors during one of the most isolating times in history.

2020–2021 — Resilience and Renewal

Upgrades transformed the shelter into an even more welcoming space. A milestone was reached with over $1 million in endowment funds secured. In 2021, longtime Executive Director Stacey Cicero transitioned to the Department of Children and Families. The torch was passed to Jen Bisterfeldt, who brought renewed energy and vision to Safe Haven’s next chapter.

2022–2023 — Laying the Groundwork for the Future

Safe Haven purchased adjacent property to protect the privacy and peace of those it serves—and to prepare for future growth. A five-year grant cycle through DCF secured stable funding through 2028. A new Community Engagement Coordinator was hired to build awareness, raise funds, and bring the community into the movement to end violence.

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This timeline isn’t just a series of dates—it’s a reflection of what happens when ordinary people come together with extraordinary purpose. From church basements to boardrooms, from crisis lines to shelter doors, Safe Haven is a living legacy of resilience, compassion, and community-driven change.