Jamestown Lions Club Explores Safe Shelter Programs at Meeting

At the Jamestown Lions Club meeting on September 24, 2023, members gained insight into the vital services offered by Safe Shelter, an organization dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Guest speaker Shauna Isbell-Kemp, the executive director of Safe Shelter since June 1, 2022, discussed the organization’s mission and its impact on the community.

Safe Shelter provides emergency and temporary housing for individuals fleeing abusive situations. Isbell-Kemp highlighted the importance of these services, stating that one of their core facilities, Mary’s Place, was established in 2018 to offer a secure environment for victims. The organization’s statistics for the 2023-2024 period reveal significant outreach: Safe Shelter provided 2,028 shelter nights, assisted 162 domestic survivors, and supported 65 sexual assault survivors. Additionally, they facilitated 3,425 total services, helped grant 31 protection orders, and welcomed 79 attendees to group counseling.

Isbell-Kemp urged anyone in need of assistance to contact their 24-hour crisis line at (701) 251-2300. This vital resource underscores the organization’s commitment to ensuring safety and support for those affected by violence.

Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

Following the presentation, Kevin Sortland, the Club’s president, shared details on upcoming events and service projects. Members are currently selling tickets for the annual fundraiser raffle, which aims to support various community initiatives. Additionally, a blood drive is scheduled for November 25-26, 2023, highlighting the Club’s ongoing commitment to community health.

Other notable events include the Lions state convention on October 24-25, 2023, and an Ag Luncheon on October 21, 2023. Previous activities have included sorting used eyeglasses, participating in Meals on Wheels, and conducting cleanup efforts at Frontier Village, demonstrating the Lions Club’s dedication to service and community involvement.

The next Lions Club meeting is set for October 8, 2023, at 6 p.m. at Shady’s. Guests are welcome to attend, and those interested in membership can contact Glen Nagel at (701) 659-8238 for more information. The Club remains committed to fostering community connections and addressing pressing social issues, as demonstrated by their collaboration with organizations like Safe Shelter.