About SAFE Haven Of Racine
Who We Are
SAFE Haven of Racine is a multifaceted nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the lives of children, youth and families across the community. Through a continuum of interconnected programs, SAFE Haven addresses immediate needs while building long-term pathways to stability, self-sufficiency and success.
At the heart of the organization is the emergency youth shelter, which provides safe, short-term housing for young people experiencing crisis, homelessness or instability. Within a trauma informed and supportive environment, youth receive individualized case management, mentorship, life skills training and access to education and community resources, ensuring SAFE Haven’s impact extends well beyond shelter services.
Through housing and supportive services for young adults, the organization helps individuals ages 18–24 secure and maintain stable housing while developing the skills needed for independence.
Preventative and supportive programming, including family mediation, youth groups and academic support, works to strengthen relationships and reduce the risk of homelessness before it begins.
The organization also offers Girls Inc. of SE Wisconsin, empowering girls to be Strong, Smart, and Bold through research based programming focused on academic enrichment, leadership development and career readiness.
Through Feather a Nest, SAFE Haven ensures that individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness have access to essential furnishings and household items, transforming empty housing into true homes and supporting long-term stability.
SAFE Haven of Racine further invests in early learning through The Academy Early Childhood Center and other year round programs, which provides high quality early childhood education in a nurturing environment that supports school readiness, social emotional development and family engagement.
Together, these programs reflect SAFE Haven’s holistic approach, meeting people where they are, addressing both immediate crises and systemic barriers and creating opportunities for lasting change.
Rooted in compassion, dignity and empowerment, SAFE Haven of Racine is committed to building a stronger, more resilient community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive not only safe but supported in building a plan for their future.
Mission Vision Values
SAFE Haven of Racine has served the Racine community for 55 years. The organization serves more than 2500 youth annually through multiple divisions with the mission, “to improve the quality of life for youth and families through education, opportunity and support”.
SAFE Haven of Racine History
SAFE Haven of Racine, Inc. is a private non-profit agency celebrating over 55 years of service to the Racine Community.
Early Days
SAFE Haven of Racine, Inc., formerly known as Innovative Youth Services of Racine, Inc. (IYSR) incorporated in 1971, operating out of the First Congregational Church in West Racine. Racine Underground House (RUSH) was subsequently adopted as the street name. Services were provided over the telephone or in person, free of charge to anyone in need of assistance. The 1970’s introduced programs and services, such as the Racine Hotline and Parents Helpline.
Growing Years
IYSR became a member of Racine Area United Way in 1980. IYSR merged with Racine Runaway and the name “RUSH” was discontinued. The agency moved to a three story Victorian house and a “warm” line (PhoneFriend) was established for home alone children. Also during this decade Peer Counselor Training was incorporated into the agency and the public school system. The 1990’s brought Drug Abuse and Prevention (DAPP), A Parent Connection, SAFE Kids, and Independent Living Skills. The new millennium brought the agency into Middle School Engagement, Gang Crime Diversion, and Pathways to Success.
Currently
Services include Emergency Youth Shelter and support for youth experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity because of family dysfunction, abuse, neglect, or run away from home, who are victims of human trafficking, and services that support moving from homelessness top permanency. Other services include, Early Childhood Education, Summer Daycamp, Preventative Support Groups, Empowerment and Educational programming for girls, Family Mediation and Housing Services.
Board of Directors
Throughout the years, SAFE Haven has provided quality services to vulnerable youth and families. Trained staff members are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week providing a wide range of services at no cost.
We wish we could report that we have solved the problems of child abuse, neglect and homelessness, but sadly, we have not. Racine’s families still need our help and we need yours!
SAFE Haven remains true to its mission to improve the quality of life for youth and families by providing safe living environments, crisis support, and community intervention. With your help we can continue to positively impact youth and families. SAFE Haven is proud to report that 92% of the funding we receive goes directly to serving youth and families. Be assured that your donation will be used to make a difference!
Difficult economic times create great challenges for already stressed families and increase the need for the supportive services SAFE Haven provides. This year more than ever, SAFE Haven depends on your support to guarantee that services are offered each and every hour of each and every day.
Please be our partner in keeping young people safe and preparing them for the future. With your help, we can offer them hope.
SAFE Haven of Racine BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025-2026
Clarice Zellmer
Board Vice President
Retired Engineering Manager WE Energies
Email: claricezellmer@gmail.com
Nicole Christensen-Zabler
Board Treasurer President
Racine Municipal Employee Credit Union
Email: Nicole@rmecu.org
Alicia Mojica
Families In Transition, Foster and Truancy Intervention Specialist
Email: alicia.mojica@rusd.org