We had the good fortune of connecting with Kate Thoene and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kate, how does your business help the community?
New Life Center has a profound impact on the lives of individuals and communities. We provide survivors of domestic violence with vital resources that help each person build a safer future. Every day, we have the opportunity to contribute to something larger than ourselves, driving positive change and offering hope where it’s needed most. We also have a resource center in downtown Phoenix, where we can help anyone as young as 18 if they have been in a difficult situation. We truly guide members of our community to safety.

What should our readers know about your business?
From its humble origins as an emergency refuge for West Valley survivors of violence, New Life Center has intentionally evolved into a statewide leader in emergency shelter and outreach support – all while remaining rooted in its mission of eliminating domestic and sexual violence through support services, education, and expertise. Through this impactful mission, New Life Center ensures safe, stable communities so that all have a safe place to call home.

When New Life Center opened in 1991 in an abandoned dormitory hidden away on the grounds of a popular resort in Litchfield Park, it was the first domestic violence shelter in the West Valley. The donated, makeshift space – lovingly refurbished by volunteers and community donors – offered eight beds and most importantly, safety and compassion for families fleeing their homes as victims of domestic violence. Three decades later, New Life Center has grown into one of the largest stand-alone domestic violence shelters in Arizona with 104 beds.

A major challenge in our state is the pervasiveness and effects of domestic violence. New Life Center is critically aware of this and is working to provide safety and resources to as many families as possible. We know that domestic violence is not just a women’s issue; it’s a community issue. Using a trauma-informed model, NLC’s emergency shelter provides refuge and essential services for approximately 350 adult and child survivors escaping from varying forms of violence each year, including human trafficking. Services are offered to Maricopa County residents from all backgrounds. In addition to emergency shelter, NLC offers wrap-around services to help survivors stabilize and begin their journey free from violence.

The work at New Life Center is possible through the incredible generosity of our community. We need financial donations to support our operations, donated items for those residing at our emergency shelter and volunteers to help us at our social enterprise thrift store, Hope’s Closet. We ask that those interested visit www.newlifectr.org/get-involved

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
While I love living in Phoenix and all it has to offer, if my friends were in town, I would take them to Sedona for the week. Between the restaurants, hikes, and spas, we would never run out of things to do.

For food, a great restaurant to try would be The Hudson! The restaurant has some amazing views of Sedona, which is ideal for people who have never been there. The food is delicious too. Everyone would enjoy it!

For relaxation, I would take my friends to a spa for the day! You can’t go wrong with a massage! L’Auberge de Sedona Spa or Enchantment Resort’s Spa are two great options!

And finally, you have to go on a hike when you are in Sedona! For vacation, an easy/moderate hike is the way to go! I would take Bell Rock Trail! The red rock views are something you can’t miss!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shout out all of the New Life Center staff. Each person takes the time to ensure that survivor needs are met and that they feel as safe as possible. Their dedication helps keep New Life Center an important service within our community.

Website: https://newlifectr.org/

Instagram: @newlifectr

Facebook: New Life Center

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