About Us

THE SUPPORT CENTER HISTORY

In September of 1978, a new organization came into existence with $21,000 of

“Title 1” money, whose purpose was to provide educational services to the community on the issues of Domestic Violence, and also to provide information to victims of Domestic Violence, with the hope that they would break out of the cycle of violence and become non-victims, . During the same year, a core of volunteers were identified and trained, safe homes were located to shelter victims, and support groups for victims of Domestic Violence began.

Because of the successful first year, “Title 1” refunded the second year with an added focus – Rape. Numerous victims of Sexual Assault called The Support Center, as it was the only place in the county where victims were able to receive the services they needed.

The third year found The Support Center with no funding for staff positions, but DSHS reimbursement dollars for services given paid for leasing a shelter. The shelter shared office space with The Displaced Homemakers program and The Rural Women Employment and Training Program.

In May 1980, The Support Center received funding through a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for a 3-year period and DSHS reimbursement dollars increased to about $600 per month.

In 1983, The Support Center incorporated and applied for its non-profit 501(c)(3) Status with the Internal Revenue Service. A shelter was purchased during the same year and was renovated from top to bottom with grants from the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development. The shelter was named after a long time volunteer who had passed away, Elinor Buob.

Throughout the years of seemingly uncertain soft money, a strong conviction remained in the hearts of TSCs staff members and volunteers, that the services which they provided in Okanogan County, were here to stay, and no cry for help would ever go unheard or unanswered again.

The Support Center has been serving victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault for almost 28 years now, and is the only accredited and qualified Sexual Assault Program in Okanogan County. The Support Center works exclusively with primary and secondary victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault and/or Abuse. The Support Center Foundation owns and operates the shelter for victims who have been abused or are in danger.

Currently, we have 13 people on staff. The Crisis Line is staffed by community volunteers and staff members who volunteer their time after work, weekends, and on holidays. Their shifts may last anywhere from 10 – 24 hours. The Support Center provides training for staff and volunteers and is certified to do so by the Washington State Coalition for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Programs. The Support Center also provides training for most law enforcement agencies in the county.