Jean Discusses 40 Years of Advocacy on WABE

Our CEO, Jean Douglas, recently joined Rose Scott on WABE’s Closer Look to discuss our organization’s history, evolution, and future.

Jean reflected on the tragic killing of Gwendolyn Ann Turnbough, whose murder in 1985 became the catalyst for the creation of our organization. Following Gwendolyn’s death, community leaders formed a task force and secured a grant that launched what would become the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence.

Now, four decades later, we are entering a new chapter with a new name: In Safe Company.

Jean explained that the name change reflects the organization’s expanded mission after acquiring the DeKalb Rape Crisis Center last year and broadening services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence.

“The heart of the work is still the same,” Jean said. “The hope is that the message gets out that whoever reaches out to us will be in safe company. That means no judgment, that we’re here to listen, support, and walk with you.”

We are deeply grateful to WABE and Rose Scott for creating space for this important conversation and for helping amplify the voices and experiences of survivors in our community.

You can listen to the full interview here: WABE Closer Look Interview with Jean Douglas