About Us

Haven House has served and advocated for victims of domestic violence in Blount County since 1983.

Haven House exists to save and change lives impacted by domestic violence through education, prevention, and intervention. We believe that by providing space to heal, court and legal advocacy, and supportive services, victims are better equipped to live and grow without the threat of abuse and violence.

OUR HISTORY

Building on our history that began in 1981, we are continuing the legacy of a grassroots effort that began with a group of women representing 45 churches and the Junior Chilhowee Club who believed in addressing domestic violence in Blount County, Tennessee.

Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander and his wife, Honey, became involved in the spring of 1982 and spearheaded fundraising efforts to establish a shelter where victims of domestic violence could find safety. The first Haven House shelter was opened on April 11, 1983, and operated from Thursday mornings to Monday evenings through the generous help of 35 volunteers. Funds were acquired for full-time staff later that year, allowing Haven House to remain open full-time with a resident coordinator and a staff of volunteers.

Through the generosity of churches, civic groups, local businesses, and individuals across the community, the shelter has moved and grown multiple times since it’s beginning in our constant efforts to provide safety and resources for more victims. Today, we’re able to provide shelter for up 17 women and children, along with assisting hundreds of victims through our many other services outside our shelter like court and legal advocacy, support groups, and housing assistance.

By working with our long-term partners like the Tennessee Department of Human Services, the United Way, and the Office of Criminal Justice, we hope to continue building on our history of saving and changing lives for victims for decades to come.

Who We Are

About Our Organization

Our Vision

Our vision is to be a leader in the prevention of domestic violence in Blount County and surrounding areas and provide high quality services to domestic violence victims and their children.

Our Mission

Haven House exists to save and change lives impacted by domestic violence
through education, prevention, and intervention.

Guiding Principles

• Safety
• Accessibility
• Compassion
• Confidentiality
• Integrity

Our Team

Executive Director

Melina Politte

Finance Director

Amber Costner

Office Coordinator

Vickie Pedigo

[email protected]
865-983-6818

Court Advocate

Whitney Petree

[email protected]
865-982-1087

Hotline Advocate

Tori Clariday

[email protected]
865-982-1087

Children's Advocate

Madilyn Reisinger

[email protected]
865-982-1087

Hotline Advocate

Alexia Rutland

[email protected]
865-982-1087

Event Coordinator

Savannah Kilday

[email protected]
865-983-6818

Our Board of Directors

President

Bryan Kilday

Fran Bennett

Vice President

Robin Marsh

Ryan Desmond

Secretary

Rayanne Streeter

Elizabeth Riffle

Treasurer

Sharon May

Susan Stout

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