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In the mid 1970s, the problem of domestic violence was brought to the attention of the community of Butte County by a group of local therapists. These therapists worked with victims of domestic violence in their private practices and provided emergency shelter for them and their children in their own homes. But as the need for shelter steadily increased, they could no longer accommodate all who needed their assistance. In the Fall of 1977, through the dedicated efforts of its founders, Catalyst was incorporated. The growing demand for shelter was met through the use of "safe houses" -- families who were approved through a screening process to provide a room in their own homes for women and their children fleeing violent situations. A United Way Member Agency since 1984, Catalyst opened HAVEN, a 16-bed confidential shelter in 1985. Currently Catalyst is a private, not-for-profit corporation administered by a nine member board of directors. Our mission is to prevent and reduce the incidence of domestic violence in Butte County by intervening in the cycle of violence through crisis intervention and community education. In addition to shelter, Catalyst's staff, counseling interns, and volunteers provide many supportive services including a 24-hour crisis line, a drop-in center, counseling for any victim of domestic violence, legal advocacy, training to law enforcement and medical personnel, and community education. A s a n a g e n c y w e v a l u e . . .
Understanding the diversity of the human experience |
