February 14, 2006 > SAVE changes name

by Sherri Plaza

Shelter Against Violent Environments, has changed its name to Safe Alternatives to Violent Environments. SAVE was organized in 1976 when a group of concerned community members recognized the need for a "safe house" for abused women and children- a shelter against violent environments.

Thirty years later, SAVE offers much more than shelter. It offers counseling, transitional housing, life skills training, legal advocacy, restraining orders, crisis intervention, community education, teen dating violence prevention program, children's programs, and support groups. In other words, SAVE provides safe alternatives to violent environments for men, women, and children.

"Many people think that SAVE is only a shelter, and our old name reinforced that belief," explained Rodney Clark, SAVE's executive director. "Our new name is a better reflection of the variety of services we provide."

SAVE will continue to use the acronym by which it is commonly known.

Services are provided for Fremont, Hayward, Newark, Union City, and San Leandro. In a typical year, SAVE provides services to over 15,000 individuals. Although it is based in Southern Alameda County, geography does not limit SAVE's services. Many clients come from outside this area, and even from outside the state.

For more information about SAVE, call (510) 574-2250 or visit www.save-dv.org.