Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse

Background

Overview

Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse, formerly known as South Suburban Family Shelter, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, coordinated services to families affected by domestic violence. Established in 1980, the organization operates in Homewood, Illinois, and offers a range of free services to victims, available in both English and Spanish.

Mission and Vision

Anew's mission is to offer support and resources to families experiencing domestic violence, empowering them to make informed decisions without imposing a single solution. The vision is to promote communities that begin anew with a deeper understanding of domestic violence, focusing on teaching peace and compassion.

Industry Significance

As a leading provider of domestic violence services in the Chicago metropolitan area, Anew plays a crucial role in addressing and mitigating the impact of domestic violence through direct support, education, and advocacy.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Comprehensive Support: Provide a range of services to address the diverse needs of individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

Community Education: Raise awareness and educate the community to prevent domestic violence and support survivors.

Advocacy: Advocate for systemic change to improve the response to domestic violence and support victims.

Areas of Specialization

Emergency Shelter: Offer safe housing for individuals and families fleeing domestic violence.

Counseling Services: Provide therapeutic support for victims and witnesses of domestic violence.

Court Advocacy: Assist victims in navigating the legal system to obtain protection and justice.

Abuser Intervention Programs: Implement programs aimed at preventing future violence by addressing the behaviors of those who have caused harm.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technologies are not detailed, Anew employs various tools to manage client services, coordinate programs, and engage with the community effectively.

Primary Markets and Conditions Targeted

Anew primarily serves individuals and families in the Chicago metropolitan area, focusing on those affected by domestic violence, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or age.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Anew's funding sources include state allocations, grants, donations, and fundraising activities. In 2022, the Illinois Department of Human Services increased Anew's funding to nearly $1.1 million, reflecting the organization's significant role in addressing domestic violence.

Total Funds Raised

In the fiscal year 2024, Anew reported total revenues of approximately $3.95 million.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details about recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

As a non-profit organization, Anew's funding primarily comes from government agencies, private donors, and community fundraising efforts.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized to support Anew's various programs, including emergency shelter, counseling services, court advocacy, abuser intervention programs, and community education initiatives.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Anew's pipeline focuses on expanding and enhancing existing programs to better serve the community. This includes increasing capacity for emergency shelter, expanding counseling services, and enhancing community education efforts.

Stages of Development

Programs are continually assessed and developed to meet the evolving needs of the community. Specific timelines for new initiatives are not publicly detailed.

Target Conditions

The primary focus is on addressing and mitigating the impact of domestic violence within the community.

Anticipated Milestones

Milestones include increasing the number of individuals served, expanding program offerings, and achieving greater community engagement and awareness.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, Anew utilizes various tools to manage client services, coordinate programs, and engage with the community effectively.

Significant Scientific Methods

Anew employs trauma-informed practices across all services, ensuring that interventions are sensitive to the experiences of those affected by domestic violence.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Jennifer Gabrenya: Chief Executive Officer. Jennifer has been with Anew since 2017, leading the organization through significant growth and rebranding efforts.

Carol Gsell: Chief Program Officer. Carol oversees program development and implementation, ensuring services meet the needs of the community.

Kris Scott: Chief Advancement Officer. Kris is responsible for fundraising, community relations, and strategic partnerships.

Lynn Pluth: Chief Financial Officer. Lynn manages the organization's financial operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability.

Board of Directors

Michael Leonard: President.

Tracy Weems: Vice President.

Juan Valerio: Treasurer.

Dawanda Davis: Secretary.

Sylvia Alexander: Director.

Heather Bernal: Director.

Dr. Michelle Blakely: Director.

Chief Mitchell Davis: Director.

Yolanda Johnson-Davis: Director.

Cherilyn Richardson: Director.

Sirena Shepherd: Director.

Rev. Jeffery Smith: Director.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The domestic violence support sector in the Chicago metropolitan area is characterized by a network of organizations working collaboratively to address the needs of affected individuals and families. The market is influenced by factors such as funding availability, community engagement, and the prevalence of domestic violence.

Competitor Analysis

Crisis Center for South Suburbia: Provides similar services, including emergency shelter, counseling, and advocacy.

Apna Ghar, Inc.: Offers support services for survivors of domestic violence, focusing on immigrant and refugee communities.

Sarah's Inn: Provides comprehensive services to women and children affected by domestic violence.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Anew collaborates with various community organizations, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare providers to enhance service delivery and support for victims. Notably, in 2022, Anew partnered with the Crisis Center for South Suburbia to share 24-hour hotline services, expanding their reach and effectiveness.

Operational Insights

Anew's comprehensive approach, including emergency shelter, counseling, court advocacy, and community education, positions it as a leading provider in the region. The organization's trauma-informed practices and commitment to inclusivity and diversity further strengthen its competitive advantage.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Anew aims to expand its services to reach more individuals and families affected by domestic violence, enhance community education programs, and advocate for systemic changes to better support victims. The organization's strong community partnerships and experienced leadership team provide a solid foundation for achieving these objectives.