Reach out a Helping Hand: REACH of Jackson County
By Olu Ben-Shidah and Alex Chandler
Mission statement
“Committed to promoting economic self-sufficiency and zero tolerance for domestic violence and sexual assault in our community."
Reach is an organized facility building that is a safe house and rehabilitation center for abused and battered females. According to its web site, “REACH of Jackson County, Inc. was founded as a grassroots, all-volunteer organization whose mission was to respond to the prevalence of domestic and sexual violence in the western North Carolina counties of Haywood, Macon and Jackson. REACH, which stands for Resources, Education, Advocacy, Counseling, Housing, was one of the first programs in North Carolina to address the problems of domestic violence and sexual assault.”
Background
Since 1978, REACH of Jackson County, Inc. has emphasized empowerment, personal responsibility, skill building, realistic assessment of strengths and liabilities and belief in the individual's ability to care for self and family. The web site explains, “REACH of Jackson County is recognized as a leading human services resource and provides a comprehensive array of services to the community ranging from crisis intervention to public education. REACH works collaboratively with all other agencies and takes a leadership role in advancing new client service models that reduce duplication of effort and maximize the limited dollar resources available to all of us.”
Volunteer
The best way to contribute to REACH is by shopping at the REACH thrift store or by donating “previously loved” items. Jackson County REACH is always looking for volunteers to help with landscaping, serving meals and other jobs around the shelter. To get more information on other ways to volunteer, please contact Janice, Finance Director, or Winona, outreach Coordinator, at (828) 631-4488 ext. 212 or email at outreach@reachofjackson.com. You may also visit the REACH web site at www.reachofjackson.com.
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