# laurel-house.org > Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://laurel-house.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Blog Posts - [2025 to The Present...](https://laurel-house.org/lh-2025-to-present/): In 2025, Laurel House officially launched the 1980 Legacy Society, a planned giving program to allow our supporters to make an impact on survivors of domestic violence and help sustain our work far into the future. We held our first pinning ceremony in 2026 to honor the first generation of 1980 Legacy Society members. At - [2023 to 2024...](https://laurel-house.org/lh-2023-to-2024/): Laurel House had two milestones in 2024: the North Wales Renovation Project and our new Executive Director! NORTH WALES RENOVATION PROJECT In 2024, 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 - [2020 to 2022...](https://laurel-house.org/lh-2020-to-2022/): In 2013, Laurel House embarked on The “Rebuilding Lives, Restoring Hope” Capital Campaign and welcomed our community of volunteers, donors, and friends to work together to bring our vision of the Safe Haven Center to life. In 2019, Laurel House purchased a building in Montgomery County. PA, where it relocated its former shelter and expanded - [2015 to 2019...](https://laurel-house.org/2015-to-2019/): 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/): Laurel House is a comprehensive domestic violence agency serving individuals, families, and communities throughout Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. The agency's name was selected because of the beauty of the laurel, Pennsylvania's state flower. It represents a victory for people who have taken the courageous first step of reaching out to Laurel House in their efforts to build a violence-free life for themselves and their children. - [EVENTS](https://laurel-house.org/events/): UPCOMING EVENTSRegistration is OPEN! Walk A Mile In Their Shoes 2026Registration is OPEN! Join us on October 10th, 2026, for our first ever Walk A Mile in Their Shoes event during #DVAM at Ursinus College. We are excited to welcome back our friend, and event emcee Preston Elliott from WMMR's Preston & Steve!Proceeds from the event will go directly to support Laurel House’s domestic violence shelter - [“He Choked Me”: Understanding the Danger of Strangulation](https://laurel-house.org/learn/strangulation/): “He Choked Me”: Understanding the Danger of StrangulationIf your partner has ever put their hands around your neck, used a “sleeper hold,” or wrapped an object like a scarf, belt, or rope around your throat, you have been strangled. What is Strangulation? Strangulation is the act of cutting off your airway OR blood flow to - [Community Events](https://laurel-house.org/community-events/): Community EventsCommunity involvement directly benefits victims of domestic violence and their families by helping Laurel House raise awareness and necessary funds. Check the events calendar often for upcoming community events! ➤ Captain Carwash is running a fundraiser in support of Laurel House! When you purchase any wash through this fundraiser, 30% of the proceeds go - [Hotline](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/hotline-2/): 24-HOUR HOTLINE Our 24/7, confidential hotline at 1-800-642-3150 is available to anyone who needs us. 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 - [Community Education](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/community-education/): Community EducationAt Laurel House we understand that 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. Our programs are designed to inform participants about healthy friendships and dating relationships. Click the buttons on the side for - [Wish List](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/wish-list/): 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 - [Media Library](https://laurel-house.org/about/media/): MEDIA LIBRARYNewsletter ArchiveSeptember 2026August 2026July 2026Annual 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, - [Volunteer Opportunities](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/volunteers/opportunities/): Current Volunteer Opportunities Volunteer Drivers Needed!Help us keep good food from going to waste! We are looking for reliable volunteer drivers to assist with regular morning pickups from local partner stores in Blue Bell and Trooper. By picking up these surplus items, you’ll help bridge the gap between local food donors and neighbors in need.Locations:Wawa: - [Testimonials](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/stories-testimonials-feedback/): Share Your Story Has Laurel House made an impact on you? If so, we want to hear from you!Laurel House would like your help in highlighting successes and the value the organization brings to our community. Please assist us by completing the following short survey below. The information in this survey is confidential and we - [Empty Place at the Table](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/empty-place-at-the-table/): An Empty Place at the Table Every year, families in our community lose loved ones to domestic violence. An Empty Place at the Table™ pays tribute to those losses. The Table is set as a dinner gathering. However, each place is left empty to represent individuals who died as a result of domestic violence.Families and - [What is Domestic Violence?](https://laurel-house.org/learn/what-is-domestic-violence/): What is Domestic Violence?Domestic violence is a deliberate pattern of behaviors used to gain and maintain power and control in a relationship (or former relationship). Domestic violence (DV) is often used interchangeably with intimate partner violence (IPV): ➤ Domestic violence refers to violence among people who live together or occupy the same household, and can - [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 - [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 - [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. - [Safe Haven Center](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/safe-haven-center/): EMERGENCY SHELTERFleeing 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 through our - [Grants](https://laurel-house.org/grants/): Empowering Our Mission: Grant Announcements We would like to thank all of our generous donors, people and companies alike. As a nonprofit, Laurel House runs on the contributions that people like you bringforward so that we may continue to operate our many services for domestic abuse survivors. The funding you provide directly supports both our - [Resources](https://laurel-house.org/learn/resources-3/): 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 & ClassroomTeen DatingChildren & ClassroomIdentifying Dating Abuse in the ClassroomTeen DatingTeen Dating ViolenceMedicalStrangulationMedicalBrain and Head InjuriesBrain Injury BrochureC.H.A.T.S.M.A.P. BrochureInvisible Injuries: Head Injuries - [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 - [Cell Phones](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/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, - [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 - [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 - [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 - [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 - [Holiday Wish List](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/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 - [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 - [Become A Monthly Donor](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/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 - [Volunteer](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/volunteers/): 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 - [LAUREL HOUSE EVENTS](https://laurel-house.org/laurel-house-events/): LAUREL HOUSE EVENTSLaurel House events are an opportunity to connect with community members, fundraise for our lifesaving programs and services, and raise awareness about domestic violence. Laurel House hosts several events throughout the year, and attends events hosted by local businesses and community groups. Take a moment to learn about our four main events:Annual GalaThe Gala is - [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 - [Myths vs Facts](https://laurel-house.org/learn/facts-vs-myths/): Myths vs Facts - [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 - [Advocacy Services](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/advocacy-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, - [Planned Giving](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/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 - [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-PresidentsBruce Braunewell, CPAMelissa PilongCo-Vice Presidents Jacqueline AllenJanell - [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 - [Donate](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/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 - [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 - [Planned Giving with the 1980 Legacy Society](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/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 - [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 - [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, - [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, - [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 - [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 - [Get Involved](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/): 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 - [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 - [Transitional & Bridge Housing](https://laurel-house.org/about/our-programs/transitional-housing/): TRANSITIONAL HOUSING NEHEMIAH'S WAY AND BRIDGE HOUSINGLaurel House operates two transitional housing programs: Nehemiah’s Way is based out of the North Wales area, while the Bridge Housing program is centered in the Norristown area. These programs provide a “bridge” between our shelter and independent community living. The goal of the program is to enable families - [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 - [Make a Donation](https://laurel-house.org/get-involved-today/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 DONATIONSFor any donation questions, contact Brad Smith, Development Director, at 610-277-1860 x 102 or development@laurel-ouse.org!General DonationsFrom $10 to $10,000, whatever amount you - [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 - [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 - [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 by phone at - [Privacy Policy](https://laurel-house.org/lh-privacy-policy/): Effective Date: July 16, 2026 This Privacy Policy describes how Laurel House collects, uses, shares and protects information when you interact with our websites (including https://laurel-house.org and event pages hosted through OneCause and QGiv/Bloomerang), emails we send, our social media accounts, together with any related online or offline services we provide. What personal data we - [Privacy Policy OG](https://laurel-house.org/privacy-policy-og/): 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 - [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. ## Everest Timeline - [Our History](https://laurel-house.org/everest-timeline/our-history/) - [](https://laurel-house.org/everest-timeline/6488/) ## Blog Categories - [All Posts](https://laurel-house.org/category/all/) - [History](https://laurel-house.org/category/all/history/)