Anniversary

Laurel House turns 40!

Dear Friends,

After months of planning to commemorate our organization’s 40th Anniversary on May 28th, it’s unbelievable to think that we will now honor our history during such an unprecedented time. Yet perhaps now, more than ever, Laurel House continues to stand as a beacon of hope for the hundreds of families right here in Montgomery County that are struggling with domestic violence during this already very challenging time.

We know that we have come a long way since our Founding Mothers first created a hotline and shelter. We are grateful for all of the progress that has been made, and we know that there is still more work to be done to achieve our vision of ending domestic violence in every life, home, and community.

On behalf of all of us at Laurel House, thank you for taking the time to share in this celebration of our organization’s history. We look forward to all of the exciting things to come in the future!

Sincerely,

Beth Sturman

Executive Director

1974

How Laurel House first came to be…

In 1974 Sue Fields, Betty Aptaker, Lillian Orr, and Joan Stuart (now known as our Founding Mothers) started talking about the concept of a Women's Center promoting the philosophy of...

From the 1980s into the 1990s…

Laurel House became incorporated as a 501(c)3 in 1981, and the next year hired its first paid Executive Director, Betty Aptaker. Things were steadily moving along. The Norristown property they...

From the late 90s into the early 2000s…

The late 90s into the early 2000s was a period of expansion for both fundraising events and the formation of new services. Seeking to grow its fundraising activities to keep...

2015 to the Present…

From the first hotline being established in 1976 by our Founding Mothers, to the acquisition of an emergency shelter, and the expansion of staff, programs and fundraising opportunities, Laurel House had...

Testimonials from our Supporters

"I volunteer at Laurel House because the smallest things I do effect so many and are greatly appreciated. This encourages me to do more. The Laurel House staff are warm, inviting, and very supportive. Thank you for allowing me to help."

Lawrence Smith

Laurel House Volunteer

"M&T Bank’s Philadelphia Women’s Resource Group has supported Laurel House's work with women and families in the community for two years. We understand the critical importance of the organization's work, and are grateful to support its initiatives. We look forward to continuing our partnership and offering more resources to the affected families turning to Laurel House in their time of need."

M&T Bank

Laurel House Sponsor

"I have worked in the nonprofit field for many years and Laurel House is by far the most supportive and dedicated organization I have been a part of. I love knowing that the work we are doing is helping to support the programs and services that are helping victims and saving lives in our community. I am honored to be a part of this organization."

Anonymous

Laurel House Employee