Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. benefits Columbia County and surrounding areas by providing emergency, safe shelter and related services to victims of domestic violence and their children. Victim related services provided to shelter residents include the following: crisis intervention, victim advocacy, safety planning, individual case management, weekly support groups, courtroom accompaniment, assistance in obtaining orders of protection, assistance in accessing community resources, and assistance with moving to permanent housing.

Staff information

In October 2013, Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. received the Victims of Crimes Act (VOCA) grant, a federal grant received through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration; therefore, the organization was able to hire 5 full time staff members including an executive director and 4 victim advocates. By receiving this grant in 2013 and in 2015, Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. has been able to offer more victim related services, and in return, more victims have been served. The executive director is responsible for writing and administering all grants while adhering to grant guidelines, supervising staff and volunteers, and providing direct service to victims. Victim advocates are responsible for empowering domestic violence victims residing in the shelter by providing all necessary victim-related services. 

Annual Events

Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. hosts numerous events throughout the year to raise awareness about domestic violence and victim services offered in Columbia County while raising funds to increase the financial stability of the organization. Each summer Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. hosts the Summer Salad Luncheon Series during the months of April through July. During the week of the Columbia County Fair and Livestock show, Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. works the cotton candy booth. In October, domestic violence awareness month, Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. hosts the Stride Against Domestic Violence 5k Walk/Run. Additionally, a group of car show fanatics host the Cruising Against Bruising Car Show in September with all proceeds being donated to Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. These fundraisers combined raise over $8,000 each year.

Impact of United Way of Columbia County

United Way of Columbia County has significantly impacted Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. Compassion’s Foundation, Inc. received the Cinda Hallman Special Project Grant in June 2016 with these funds being used to pay the down payment of the mortgage for the new shelter house.