Episode 46 | Empowering Survivors | Stephanie Miller, CEO, Jill Marshall, Deputy Director, Women’s Resource Center

In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Charles Parisi, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adriana O'Donnell, Stephanie Miller (CEO), and Jill Marshall (Deputy Director) of the Women's Resource Center.

The Women's Resource Center was founded almost 50 years ago in 1974 by a group of Oceanside women who recognized the need for a rape crisis center in their community. Initially, they provided shelter in undisclosed locations, but now they offer a range of services including shelter, transitional housing, emergency services, and more. They serve individuals primarily in North County and San Diego, offering assistance to both women and men, with approximately 5% of their clients being males.

Listen as Stephanie and Jill challenges their organization faces. One such challenge is technology, as abusers can use cell phones and tracking devices to locate survivors. To protect clients, they have to consider strategies like disposing of phones and cars to ensure safety. Childcare is another significant challenge, as affordable childcare is hard to find and can be a barrier to survivors' ability to find employment and stability.

The Women's Resource Center relies on a combination of government funding, individual donations, and foundation support to operate. They joined San Diego Gives to raise awareness, increase visibility, and engage potential donors and volunteers to support their mission. Listen as Stephanie and Jill highlight the need for additional funding to cover expenses such as Uber rides, security deposits, first month's rent, and childcare.

For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.