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# laurel-house.org

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://laurel-house.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Blog

- [The North Wales Renovation Project](https://laurel-house.org/north-wales-reno-project/) - Most recently under Beth’s leadership, Laurel House began a renovation and expansion of our transitional housing building in North Wales, known as Nehemiah's Way. Once part a large estate, this building was gifted to Laurel House over 20 years ago by another organization that had transformed it into individual apartments for survivors of domestic violence
- [Vision for a New Shelter: The Safe Haven Center](https://laurel-house.org/vision-for-new-shelter/) - One of Beth’s most memorable accomplishments during her time at Laurel House has been the opening of Laurel House’s Safe Haven Center. For years, Laurel House had wanted to move the shelter out of the existing building in Norristown so we underwent a Capital Campaign to raise funds for a new shelter location. Then in
- [Highlights from a 19-Year Laurel House Journey](https://laurel-house.org/beths-laurel-house-journey/) - Beth’s ability to fundraise and leverage funds for various programming needs, has led to the expansion of most of Laurel House’s programs. In 2007, Laurel House created the 5K DASH Against Domestic Violence to raise revenue for the organization and awareness of the mission of Laurel House. This event has been so successful that it
- [Beth's First Years at Laurel House](https://laurel-house.org/2005-beth-intro-to-lh/) - When Beth joined Laurel House in October of 2005, Laurel House had a budget of approximately $1.5 million. Through her leadership, the Laurel House budget has grown to $3.4 million. This has allowed Laurel House’s programs to expand to provide life-saving supportive services to victims of domestic violence throughout Montgomery County. One of the biggest
- [Introduction of The Thrift Shops](https://laurel-house.org/beths-laurel-house-journey-thrift-shops/) - In September of 2006, Laurel House opened their first thrift shop, Marian’s Attic in King of Prussia. Then a few years later, again under Beth’s leadership, Laurel House opened a second thrift shop called Laurel’s Loft in Lansdale. These two additions have created a significant source of revenue for Laurel House with both shops bringing
- [Prior to her work with Laurel House](https://laurel-house.org/prior-to-her-work-with-lh/) - Beginning her career as a secretary at a day program for battered women, Beth has never wavered from her commitment and drive to help domestic abuse victims. Prior to her work with Laurel House, Beth was the Director of Residential Services for Project HOME. In 1999, Beth and her family moved to this region after having
- [2015 to the Present...](https://laurel-house.org/from-the-late-90s-into-the-early-2000s-2/) - 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 come a long way by the time 2015 rolled around…and we had no intention of slowing down! In 2015, Laurel House added on two new
- [How Laurel House first came to be...](https://laurel-house.org/how-lh/) - In 1974 a group of women, now known as our Founding Mothers, started talking about the concept of a Women's Center promoting the philosophy of "women helping women". Only eight years earlier, NOW (National Organization for Women) had been formed, and in 1972, Congress passed the Equal Rights Amendment. While working to bring the Women's
- [From the late 90s into the early 2000s...](https://laurel-house.org/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 up with the growth of the agency, Laurel House held its first Annual Gala in 1998. It was such a success that a Gala is
- [From the 1980s into the 1990s...](https://laurel-house.org/how-lh-2/) - 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 had acquired as an emergency shelter was at the time a twin. The other half of the building was vacant, and there was concern about

## Pages

- [Home](https://laurel-house.org/) - Read about the last year at Laurel House and how your support made our work possible!READ THE ANNUAL IMPACT REPORTLearn more about our Domestic Abuse Response Team and their 20-year history of serving survivors!LEARN MOREOur Text Line Hours have Expanded!Text "HOPE" to 85511 Monday - Friday from 8 AM - 10 PM! Consider making a
- [Volunteer](https://laurel-house.org/help/brizy-3537/) - Volunteers are crucial to advancing our mission and creating a safer Montgomery County! Laurel House could not provide the services we do without our volunteers!Volunteering with us is a powerful way to support your community, gain valuable professional experience, and build a dedicated network. Our volunteers receive extensive specialized training to provide meaningful support to
- [Make an Impact](https://laurel-house.org/help/impact/) - OUR MISSIONJoin UsDONATECare Center operates on philanthropic contributions from organizations and people like you. Your donations help us expand to new countries and build new programs all over the world so that we may reach more people in need.Donate NowBECOME A VOLUNTEER Join a team of Care Center volunteers to support your alma mater, company or another cause.
- [Donate](https://laurel-house.org/help/donate-today/) - DONATE TODAY!Laurel House is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt, charitable organization as defined under the Internal Revenue Service code section 501c (3). Tax-exemption entity ID: 23-2172743. The official registration and financial information of Laurel House may be obtained from the PA Department of State by calling toll-free Pennsylvania at 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.Privacy PolicyWe take
- [Holiday Program](https://laurel-house.org/help/holiday/) - HOLIDAY PROGRAMDue to COVID-19 and the continued public health concerns, Laurel House has re-evaluated our Holiday Program. We will continue to provide holiday help for the families we serve but have made some changes this year. Please be aware that we did not make these decisions lightly, as we had to consider our clients, staff,
- [Vehicle Donations](https://laurel-house.org/donate-vehicle/) - Vehicle DonationsWanted: clunkers, project cars, classics cars, motorcycles, boats, RV's, and more! Vehicle donations are a fast and easy way to support Laurel House! Your donated vehicle will provide critical funding to support individuals impacted by domestic abuse. Additionally, your vehicle donation might earn a tax deduction! Laurel House has partnered with Charitable Adult Rides
- [Planned Giving](https://laurel-house.org/help/planned-giving/) - Planned Giving Do you know that you don't have to write a check to make a gift to Laurel House? You can give us appreciated stocks, bonds or mutual fund shares;Make the agency a beneficiary of your Will or Revocable Trust, creating a gift that costs you nothing during your lifetime;Gift to Laurel House life
- [Power & Control](https://laurel-house.org/learn/power-control/) - Power & ControlThe Power and Control Wheel is a tool that helps explain the different ways an abusive partner can manipulate a relationship. Physical and sexual assaults or threats to commit them are the most apparent forms of domestic violence and are usually the actions that allow others to become aware of the problem. Very
- [Myths vs Facts](https://laurel-house.org/learn/facts-vs-myths/) - Myths vs Facts
- [Learn](https://laurel-house.org/learn/) - Learn about Domestic Abuse Domestic abuse is an "equal opportunity offender." It can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. It affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive and coercive behavior used by one person to gain power and control over
- [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Laurel House](https://laurel-house.org/learn/dei/) - Diversity, Equity, and InclusionDomestic abuse affects all ages, races and ethnicities, religions, gender identities, socio-economic backgrounds, cultures, and sexual orientations. In order to end domestic abuse, it's important that Laurel House understands the intersections of diversity and intimate partner violence.DEI in ActionThe action we take in support of Laurel House’s DEI Framework and along our
- [About](https://laurel-house.org/about/) - Message from our DirectorDear Friends, Laurel House first opened its doors in 1980 for the purpose of providing hotline and emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence. Now, nearly 40 years later, Laurel House has grown into a comprehensive domestic violence agency, providing supportive services, as well as dating violence and domestic violence prevention education
- [Domestic Violence in the Workplace](https://laurel-house.org/learn/dv_in_work/) - Domestic Violence in the WorkplaceDomestic Violence is everybody's business. Domestic violence has profound implications for the workplace, extending far beyond the confines of home. Victims often experience decreased productivity, absenteeism, and increased turnover due to physical injuries, emotional distress, and legal obligations. The pervasive fear of being tracked or harassed by abusers can compromise workplace
- [Get Help](https://laurel-house.org/help-2-2/) - OVERVIEWMake a DonationDomestic violence is an “equal opportunity offender”. It can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. It affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive and coercive behaviors including physical, sexual, and psychological attacks, as well as economic coercion that adults
- [Make a Donation](https://laurel-house.org/help/donations/) - MONETARY DONATIONFinancial donations to Laurel House are the best possible way to provide immediate help victims of domestic violence, their families who are in need of urgent support. DONATE NOWPAYPALCELL PHONE DONATIONSPLANNED GIVINGVEHICLE DONATIONSGeneral DonationsFrom $10 to $10,000, whatever amount you choose, any and every contribution makes a difference in our ability to provide life-saving
- [Resources](https://laurel-house.org/learn/resources/) - Laurel House ResourcesBelow are links to downloadable and printable brochures with domestic violence information and resources for survivors and their loved ones.Click to open the tabs below for links to Laurel House resources:Children & ClassroomIdentifying Dating Abuse in the ClassroomTeen DatingTeen Dating ViolenceMedicalBrain and Head InjuriesBrain Injury BrochureC.H.A.T.S.Invisible Injuries: Head Injuries and StrangulationStrangulationStrangulation Assessment CardStrangulation
- [Nicole’s Place](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/nicoles-place/) - Nicole's Place Nicole’s Place, a Laurel House satellite office located in Huntingdon Valley, provides support to individuals and families in Eastern Montgomery County who have been impacted by domestic violence. Available by appointment only. Our services include: Individual and group counselingPresentations and trainings for community organizations, schools, faith communities, and other groupsInformation and resources for individuals in need,
- [Capital Campaign](https://laurel-house.org/capital-campaign/) - Capital Campaign Campaign Success!After more than ten years of planning and two years of renovation on a $3.5 million building project, Laurel House's Capital Campaign, Rebuilding Lives, Restoring Hope, is complete! This building, now known as the Safe Haven Center, provides emergency shelter and support services to victims of domestic abuse and their families. Just as our fundraising
- [Adopt a Family](https://laurel-house.org/about/adoptafamily/) - Adopt-A-Family Program Typically, Laurel House's Adopt-A-Family Program would consist of "Wish List" items (actual items, as well as gift cards) taken directly from a client and relayed to a donor. This year, due to the continued public health concerns, we are asking donors to simply provide gift cards for the families in our Adopt-A-Family Program.
- [Our Mission](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-mission/) - OUR MISSIONLaurel House is dedicated to the vision of ending domestic violence in each life, home, and community.The mission of Laurel House is to:Advocate for and empower those impacted by domestic violence by providing crisis intervention, safe haven, supportive programs, and resourcesAdvance social change through preventative education, community training, and collaboration to foster a coordinated response
- [Teen Dating Violence](https://laurel-house.org/learn/teen-dating-violence/) - Teen Dating ViolenceTeen dating violence affects teens/ tweens in every community. 1 in 3 students will experience physical, sexual, emotional, or verbal abuse by a dating partner before they graduate high school. Unfortunately, we know that most people will not tell anyone about the abuse—only 33% of teens in an unhealthy relationship will tell someone. (www.loveisrespect.org) If
- [Career Opportunities](https://laurel-house.org/about/career-opportunities/) - Career Opportunities You can now apply to any of our career opportunities right on our website! Click Here to view our current openings. BenefitsWe offer a comprehensive benefits package to all full-time employees. Medical Insurance Life Insurance PolicyDental Insurance* 401K savings plan available after 6 months*Vision Insurance PTO*Disability Insurance 9 paid holidays *these benefits are also
- [(New) Resources](https://laurel-house.org/learn/resources-2-3/) - ResourcesMontgomery County offers text-to-911 services if it is unsafe or you are unable to make a phone call. Click here to learn more about this service. LAUREL HOUSE RESOURCESChildren and ClassroomIdentifying Dating Abuse in the ClassroomDomestic Abuse Response Team (DART)DART PamphletLegalLaurel House Legal Representation Services CardStalkingTechnology Safety Tracking the StalkerLGBTQIA+Laurel House LGBTQ+ BrochureLGBTQ+ Resources Teen DatingTeen Dating
- [Hotline](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/hotline-2/) - 24-HOUR HOTLINE Call our 24-Hour, confidential hotline at 1-800-642-3150. If you are in immediate danger call 911 or TEXT 911 if you are in Montgomery County. Domestic violence can occur anywhere, to anyone, at any time. To ensure that victims have access to vital information and can speak with a trained professional, the Laurel House
- [LGBTQ](https://laurel-house.org/learn/lgbtq-and-domestic-violence/) - LGBTQ & Domestic ViolenceDomestic abuse affects all gender identities and sexual orientations. LGBTQ Relationship Violence Abusive partners in LGBTQ relationships use the same tactics to gain power and control as in heterosexual relationships. These may include physical, psychological, financial, sexual abuse and more. An abusive partner may also use societal factors to reinforce their tactics
- [Internships at Laurel House](https://laurel-house.org/about/internships-at-lh/) - Internships at Laurel HouseInterns play a crucial role in the success of our lifesaving programs and services. Over the years, we’ve had students from Cabrini, Gwynedd Mercy University, Penn State Abington, LaSalle, and other local institutions. Our interns receive training in JUSTICE, AUTONOMY, RESTORATION, and SAFETY (JARS), becoming credentialed domestic violence advocates.Laurel House offers internship opportunities to college students in
- [Planned Giving with the 1980 Legacy Society](https://laurel-house.org/help/planned-giving-1980-legacy-society/) - Planned Giving : The 1980 Legacy SocietyDid you know that you don't have to write a check to make a gift to Laurel House? You can give us appreciated stocks, bonds or mutual fund sharesMake the agency a beneficiary of your Will or Revocable Trust, Life Insurance Policy, or Retirement Fund, creating a gift that
- [Get Involved](https://laurel-house.org/help/) - Get InvolvedCommunity involvement directly benefits victims of domestic violence and their families by helping Laurel House raise awareness and necessary funds. Help Laurel House provide safety to victims of domestic violence so that they can rebuild their life - one that is free from abuse. Community involvement directly benefits victims of domestic violence and their
- [Legal Options](https://laurel-house.org/learn/legal-options/) - Legal Options Please note that this page is informational only. It is not legal advice. Attorneys: "The danger of violence, including the risk of death, escalates when a domestic violence survivor attempts to leave a batterer. Seeking legal assistance is a step towards independence, which threatens a batterer's sense of power and control and may
- [Marian’s Attic](https://laurel-house.org/marians-attic/) - Construction Update:Marian’s Attic is open during 202 construction! If you're experiencing difficulties accessing Marian's Attic due to nearby construction, it's advisable to enter the shopping complex via Henderson Road or Saulin Blvd. Please contact the store directly for the most current information on accessibility and any alternative entry points. You can reach them at (610) 337-3068
- [Housing](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/housing/) - HOUSING Emergency Shelter Fleeing an abusive partner can be one of the most dangerous times for a victim of domestic abuse. Many victims lack the financial resources or support systems to survive without their abuser. Recognizing this impediment, Laurel House offers emergency shelter services. Each year, there are 150-200 victims and their children that come
- [Cell Phones](https://laurel-house.org/help/cell-phones/) - Cell PhonesDo your part to support us in ending domestic violence and donate your used cell phone today. Proceeds raised through this program supports our 24-Hour domestic violence hotline. Laurel House collects outdated cell phones and sends them to a recycling program, which then pays Laurel House a fee for each phone. Over the years,
- [Host an Event](https://laurel-house.org/third-party-events/) - Community EventsCommunity involvement directly benefits victims of domestic violence and their families by helping Laurel House raise awareness and necessary funds. Thank you for your interest in conducting a fundraising event to benefit Laurel House! Every day, we are in awe of our community's creative, energetic and inspiring ideas to raise money for Laurel House and
- [About Us](https://laurel-house.org/about-us/) - ABOUT USOUR MISSIONLaurel House is dedicated to the vision of ending domestic violence in each life, home, and community. The Mission of Laurel House is to:Advocate for and empower those impacted by domestic violence by providing crisis intervention, safe haven, supportive programs, and resourcesAdvance social change through preventative education, community training, and collaboration to foster
- [Supportive Services](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/supportive-services/) - Supportive Services CounselingDomestic abuse can take on many forms, such as emotional, physical, spiritual, financial, stalking, and sexual among others. Abuse occurs when there is an imbalance of power in an intimate partnership or household relationship. Brief or short-term counseling is rarely enough. Individual CounselingLaurel House provides individual counseling services to anyone 14 and older
- [Become A Monthly Donor](https://laurel-house.org/help/recurring-donor/) - BECOME A MONTHLY DONORMaking a recurring donation is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve. Recurring gifts make a difference month after month and allow Laurel House to focus on fulfilling our clients' immediate needs and beyond. Why give monthly?Recurring giving makes
- [Media Library](https://laurel-house.org/about/media/) - MEDIA LIBRARYNewsletter ArchiveJanuary 2026December 2025November 2025Annual Impact ReportsFY 2024 - 2025FY 2023 - 2024FY 2022 - 2023Finances990 for FY 2021 - 2022990 for FY 2020 - 2021990 for FY 2019 - 2020Want to stay up-to-date on Laurel House e-newsletters, program updates, events, and more? Click Here to sign up!VIDEO LIBRARYMedia RoomAs part of its mission,
- [Our Programs](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/) - OUR PROGRAMSLaurel House is a comprehensive domestic violence agency. We offer an array of services to support those impacted by domestic violence, while also providing prevention and education services to the general community. HOTLINE and TEXTLINE24-Hour Confidential Hotline: 1-800-642-3150 Textline: Text "HOPE" to 85511 HOUSING Emergency ShelterRapid Re-HousingTransitional Housing SUPPORTIVE SERVICES Clinical Counseling Crisis Response (DART)Medical
- [Laurel’s Loft](https://laurel-house.org/laurels-loft-2/) - LAUREL'S LOFT THRIFT SHOPREUSE, REPURPOSE, RESTORE A LIFE Laurel’s Loft is a thrift shop that is owned and operated by Laurel House and serves as a means of funding for Laurel House's domestic violence programs. Additionally, the shop exists to educate the community by providing information on domestic abuse and the services Laurel House provides.Laurel
- [Holiday Wish List](https://laurel-house.org/help/holiday-wish-list/) - Holiday Wish List We need your help! You can help us ensure that our clients have the best holiday season possible by helping us with our Wish List! Donations of any gift cards, grocery, or household items on our Wish List are greatly appreciated. Gift cards are an empowering means of financial support for families
- [Wish List](https://laurel-house.org/help/help-3/) - Wish List We are asking donors to consider providing gift cards so that the families in shelter, transitional housing, and community counseling programs can feel empowered to provide for their own family.Contact us via email at info@laurel-house.org or via phone at 610-277-1860 if you have any questions.Mailing Address for US Mail: Laurel House, P.O. Box
- [Prevention Education](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/prevention-education/) - Prevention Education Educating the public is one of the most effective tools for reducing domestic violence. The Laurel House Community Educators provide free, interactive professional development, and other speaking engagements. Suggested audiences include: parents, educators, classroom (middle school, high school, college), athletes, coaches, student organizations, faith leaders, medical staff, law enforcement, youth groups, Greek Life, etc.Our
- [Board of Directors](https://laurel-house.org/about/board-of-directors/) - BOARD OF DIRECTORSThe Board of Directors is responsible for fundraising activities, setting policies, and working to end domestic violence by promoting the mission of Laurel House. If you are interested in applying to become a Board member for Laurel House, please contact Stacy Dougherty, Executive Director.Board of Directors Co-PresidentsMelissa PilongJason VanBuskirk, CPACo-Vice Presidents Gregory StanbachPatricia
- [Legal Services](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/legal-services/) - Advocacy Services Laurel House recognizes that the legal system is complex and can be challenging to a survivor of domestic violence. Our Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART) works to support folks through various court processes. DART advocates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance, including:*Referrals to county resources for access to legal assistance,
- [EVENTS](https://laurel-house.org/events/) - UPCOMING EVENTSShifting Spaces Art Show 2026We're bringing back the Shifting Spaces Art Show in 2026!Know a student looking to help in the fight against domestic violence? The Shifting Spaces Art Show is an opportunity to spread positive messaging about healthy relationships and influence friends, family, and more to value respect, safety, and trust in relationships. The showcase will
- [Staff Directory](https://laurel-house.org/about/staff/) - STAFF DIRECTORY Main Office(Located in Norriton Medical Complex)190 W Germantown Pike, Suite 200 East Norriton, PA 19401 Telephone: 610-277-1860Fax: 610-879-207024 Hour Hotline: 1-800-642-3150Textline: Text "HOPE" to 85511 info@laurel-house.orgMailing AddressP.O. Box 764Norristown, PA 19404Pottstown, North Wales, and Bryn Mawr Satellite Offices By appointment only. Please contact ourmain office to make an appointment.Marian's Attic Thrift ShopPattie Malone,
- [Test Page](https://laurel-house.org/test-page/) - By Jonathan LorneSenior Contributor LIVE MUSIC & TRAVELBURNING MAN FESTIVAL EXPERIENCEREAD MOREDiscover the Dust & Fire 2018 Event23:45
- [WAM 2022 Waiver Agreement](https://laurel-house.org/wam-2022-waiver-agreement/) - Laurel House Walk a Mile In Her Shoes ® Waiver Agreement for Laurel House's Walk A Mile 2022 Event CONSENT & ACCIDENT WAIVER & RELEASE OF LIABILITY FORM FOR LAUREL HOUSE WAM EVENT I HEREBY UNDERSTAND AND ASSUME ALL OF THE RISKS OF PARTICIPATING IN ANY/ALL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE LAUREL HOUSE WALK A MILE
- [A Beacon of Hope: Reflecting on Beth Sturman’s Laurel House Journey](https://laurel-house.org/beth-sturman-legacy/) - A Beacon of Hope: Beth Sturman’s Laurel House JourneyHelp us honor a legacy of helping families, single woman households, victims of abuse regardless of gender identification, individuals living at or below the poverty line, and those who bear emotional scars of abuse. Beth Sturman has been the Executive Director of Laurel House since 2005. In
- [Instagram Demo - Customizer](https://laurel-house.org/instagram-demo-customizer/) - [my-instagram-feed user_id='' skin_id='1246'] This is a mif demo page created by plugin automatically. Please don't delete to make the plugin work properly.
- [Facebook Demo - Customizer](https://laurel-house.org/facebook-demo-customizer/) - [efb_feed fanpage_id="106704037405386" show_like_box="1" post_limit="10" cache_unit="5" cache_duration="days" skin_id=1248 ] This is a Facebook demo page created by plugin automatically. Please do not delete to make the plugin work properly.
- [Privacy Policy](https://laurel-house.org/privacy-policy/) - Who we areOur website address is: https://laurel-house.org.What personal data we collect and why we collect itCommentsWhen visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection.An anonymized string created from your email address (also called

## Everest Timeline

- [Beth's Laurel House Journey](https://laurel-house.org/everest-timeline/our-history-2/)
- [Our History](https://laurel-house.org/everest-timeline/our-history/)
- [](https://laurel-house.org/everest-timeline/6488/)

## Categories

- [All Posts](https://laurel-house.org/category/all/)
- [Ideas](https://laurel-house.org/category/all/ideas/)
- [History](https://laurel-house.org/category/all/history/)