Our Story

History

Project Sanctuary, Inc. is a private non-profit organization supported by state, local funds, and contributions from individuals. We began in the late 1970s by an all-volunteer group of women who started a confidential hotline. Quickly, the need for emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and a safe house was established in Ukiah. In the fall of 1980, rape crisis services were added to provide emergency response and counseling to survivors of sexual assault. In 1991, a crisis center in Fort Bragg was established, serving clients along the Mendocino Coast from Gualala to Westport. In 2005, prevention education services were added, establishing outreach to many school districts throughout the county. Over 2000 individuals are served each year by Project Sanctuary.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Land Acknowledgment

Project Sanctuary stands in humble acknowledgment of the profound contributions and rich heritage of the Indigenous People of Mendocino County. We pay homage to the resilience and stewardship of their lands. Project Sanctuary is committed to justice and healing to create an inclusive and supportive environment in Mendocino County for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. In May of 2021, Project Sanctuary hired a consulting firm to provide training to staff, Board and volunteers on Racial Equity. The desired outcomes of the project were as follows:

1. To develop a shared understanding of language, definitions and history relative to the impact of racism on our society.
2. Develop strategies for Project Sanctuary to address inequities – racial and otherwise – including defining practical ways to integrate anti-racism into organizational operations and activities;
3. Provide coaching, advising and support relative to implementation of equity-related policies and practices.

After the training, staff volunteered to work on a Cultural Responsiveness Organizational Self-Assessment (CROS) team to move things forward regarding examining the current issues that needed to be addressed at the agency. The CROS team developed a questionnaire and interviewed all staff and Board members regarding these issues. Five primary areas for growth were identified. Moving forward, the team established goals to become more knowledgeable in equity and diversity to better serve the community, where all clients feel welcomed and served equitably and validated across race/ethnicity, gender/gender identity, religion, culture, ability, age and class. The CROS team expanded to become a joint Board/Staff committee focused specifically on developing an agency-wide DEI plan complete with goals and strategies to accomplish the goals. Two Board/Staff retreats were held in addition to monthly committee meetings. On March 25, 2022, the final retreat was held. At this meeting, values, DEI goals, strategies, and an implementation plan were finalized. The joint Board/Staff DEI team continues to meet monthly. Progress toward goals is monitored and the plan is revised and modified as necessary. Three of the five goals have been accomplished.

Reports and Financials

3 most recent Audit reports

• Project Sanctuary Audit Rpt 09.30.20
• Project Sanctuary Audit Rpt 09.30.21
• Project Sanctuary Audit Rpt 09.30.22

3 most recent 990s (tax returns)

• 2019 Form 990 Project Sanctuary
• 2020 Form 990 Project Sanctuary
• 2021 Form 990 Project Sanctuary

Articles of Incorporation

• Restated Articles of Incorporation 092986