When survivors of domestic and sexual violence across Central Alabama need safety and support, SafeHouse is there to meet them in their most vulnerable moments.
The organization serves as a lifeline for individuals and families seeking protection, advocacy and a path forward after trauma. Leading this work is Executive Director Janelle Sierra, who landed at SafeHouse as the result of an unexpected call at exactly the right moment.
A registered nurse by training, Janelle spent much of her adult life moving across the country for work. After relocating to Alabama in 2017, she stepped away from her career for the first time to stay home with her children.
A few years later, a new neighbor — who happened to serve on the SafeHouse board — reached out to Janelle about interim leadership needs during a challenging period for the organization.
Janelle took on that interim role and, when offered the chance to stay after about six months, she accepted — feeling that her life and career had uniquely prepared her for the work.
“I think of it as SafeHouse finding me,” Janelle said.
Meeting Survivors Where They Are
SafeHouse provides comprehensive, wraparound services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Rather than offering a single program, the organization brings multiple supports together in one place to reduce barriers and minimize additional trauma.
Services are free, survivors choose which resources they want to use and there are no time limits.
“We meet people where they are,” Janelle said. “And then we help get them to where they want to be.”
Each year, SafeHouse serves about 175 individuals through its emergency shelter and nearly 600 more clients through its community services office. Some seek immediate safety, while others need advocacy, guidance or resources at different stages of healing.
Janelle shared the words of a former shelter resident who reflected on the room that housed her family during a difficult period.
“For the past few months, this room has been more than just four walls,” the survivor wrote. “It’s been a refuge, a witness to my struggle, my growth and my silent prayers.”
“For me, that speaks to why we do this work,” Janelle said. “It’s about dignity, safety and helping people believe that this is not the end, but the beginning of something greater.”
Strength Through Community Partnership
Beyond funding, the United Way network helps build meaningful collaboration with partner agencies, ensuring those who seek help receive the most tailored resources possible.
For example, SafeHouse collaborates extensively with ¡HICA!, a United Way partner agency that champions economic equality and civic engagement for Latino and immigrant families in Alabama.
“When we have Spanish-speaking clients who may feel more comfortable receiving services in their first language, ¡HICA! is an incredible resource,” Janelle said. “They provide support groups, counseling and expertise around immigration issues that we simply don’t have in-house.”
Community support also helps make SafeHouse’s mission possible. Those who want to get involved can volunteer, donate or serve as advocates for survivors.
One upcoming opportunity is SafeHouse’s annual 5K and one mile fun run on April 18, 2026, at Veterans Park in Alabaster. The event raises both awareness and funds for SafeHouse’s services and invites sponsors, runners and community members to take part in the cause.
“At the end of the day, we’re here for our community,” Janelle added. “When our staff and partners are supported, that support reaches the people who need it most.”
To learn more about how United Way addresses Crisis Response & Resource Support, click here.