Beth Garrigan has been the face of Safe Berks as CEO for the past year. Among her duties, she serves as the main point of communication between the board of directors and the staff, maintaining a positive community image and executing the mission and work for the organization.
Q: Can you tell us about Safe Berks?
Safe Berks, formerly known as Berks Women in Crisis, was founded in 1976 by 12 local women dedicated to providing services to victims of domestic violence. In 2016, we celebrated our new name – Safe Berks. This new name was important because we serve all survivors – not only women. We also serve victims/survivors of sexual violence, stalking and human trafficking. Our new name is our goal. We want a Safe Berks. We offer free and confidential services that include, but are not limited to, a 24/7/365 Hotline and text line, emergency shelter, counseling, support groups, financial counseling, medical and legal advocacy and accompaniment, campus advocacy, prevention programming for students in grades K-12 and education and awareness presentations.
Q: Are there other types of community work that you are involved in?
I am a Charter member of the Women Excelling chapter of the American Business Women’s Association. I speak at events and/or with families about Four Diamonds’ mission to conquer childhood cancer by assisting children and their families through superior care, comprehensive support and innovative research and THON, Penn State’s student-run philanthropy committed to enhancing the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer, and I strive to support our County’s small businesses, especially after all of the challenges they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Q: How do you enjoy your free time?
I spend time with my husband, who has been my biggest supporter and best friend for 35 years, my two grown children who continue to amaze and inspire me every day, and my fur baby Murphy who’s favorite thing to do is spend her day at Safe Berks! I enjoy walking, a quiet evening by the fire pit, visiting the local animal shelters, trying new recipes (although I am not a very good cook), and if I am being completely honest, I LOVE a good nap!
Q: Are there volunteer opportunities at Safe Berks?
YES! We have many volunteer opportunities available throughout the year, and are always looking for those interested in providing, preparing and/or cooking meals for our shelter residents. With the holidays coming, we have gift wrapping needs at the Berkshire Mall during the month of December, and we offer specific required training for those who would like to work directly with our victim survivors. Anyone interested in learning more can contact MindyM@SafeBerks.org.
Get More
Did you know?
Anyone suffering from domestic violence or sexual abuse can receive help even 20 years after the crisis? Safe Berks isn’t just for an immediate crisis; they provide services “when you’re ready,” Garrigan says.
Mark Oct. 18 on your Calendar.
The Silent Witness Project is a visual monument walking event from Safe Berks to RACC. Upon arriving at RACC, victims' names are read aloud in respect for the tragic loss of their lives.
