Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center

“Quite honestly, we were amazed to have received word back from the IRS so quickly. From the day the application packet and filing fees were mailed to the IRS, it took less than 20 days to get an affirmative answer back," said Barry Fain of Jefferson County, a founder and member of SafeHarbor's board of directors. Many applications are returned for candidates to supply additional information or for other reasons.

"Since we began the effort to establish this center to serve child-victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse and severe neglect, our pace has been fast and furious. But, that is a great thing in our eyes," Fain said.

"Our board members and volunteers have performed wonderfully with such a quick succession of events," Donna Koester, president of the board, said. "We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated and involved group working for the children in the four counties we are here to serve."

In addition to the receipt of the nonprofit status with the IRS, SafeHarbor's board will get a donation from First Presbyterian Church in Jefferson City. The church recently held its annual yard sale to benefit local mission projects, including SafeHarbor Child Advocacy Center. Based on past years' sales, SafeHarbor expects to receive approximately $3,500 from First Presbyterian this year.

"We are extremely grateful for First Presbyterian's faith in our efforts and desire to support our organization service of child-victims of abuse in the four county district," Fain said.

During Old Time Saturday in Jefferson City and First Presbyterian's annual yard sale, SafeHarbor maintained informational booths at the yard sale and at the festival downtown, to distribute literature and answer questions.

"We received a very positive response at both locations," Koester said.

To learn more about SafeHarbor Child Advocacy Center, visit www.SafeHarborCAC.com or call Koester at 453-2638 or Fain at 471-1898.