Cool Timeline
On March 1, North Star hired a full time Victim Advocate exclusively for Gentry and Worth Counties, and opened an extended office located in Albany, MO
We are happy to announce that we have changed our name to “North Star Advocacy Center”.
Our full continuum of care assists individuals and families with immediate respite from violence, and services which empower clients to find and choose good options for future safety and success. Additionally, we focus on parent education and community education, looking toward a brighter future, and knowing that safe families make happy neighborhoods. Current staff includes an Executive Director, one full time Court/Victim Advocate, three part time Victim Advocates, a Volunteer Coordinator, four On Call Staff
Linda Mattson hired as the Executive Director.
Sarah Clark hired as the Executive Director
Finished construction on garage for a client’s car; storage area for donations; and upstairs apartment for sheltering pets, indoor play area for children, and/or apartment.
Became one of 34 shelters across USA to implement PAWS (Pets and Women’s Shelter) so pets can be safely housed on-site with women and children fleeing abusive homes. Families are often forced to stay in abusive situations because they fear for their pets’ safety.
Established a Children’s Program/Kids Club.
Moved into a newly renovated Center at 1220 East 2nd Street, Maryville, MO 64468. This handicapped accessible facility will expand services to house 20 clients, a double garage to house a client’s car, provide storage space for donations and upstairs area for a variety of activities.
The number of clients served increased 51% and the number of direct services offered increased 41%.
Received a CDBG grant to purchase a new facility and expand shelter services.
Developed a local Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) team.
Received Gladys Rickard grant and paid off our mortgage!
A Residential Advocate was added
A full time Victim Advocate was hired.
Muriel Zimmerman became part time Executive Director. Shelter opened November 2003. 103 clients served our first year.
A part time Court Advocate was added to the staff.
We officially became “The Children and Family Center of NW MO”
Grant dollars provided for a full time Victim Advocate.
The Center also began offering parenting classes