Women of Worth

From Victim to Survivor to Volunteer, Giving Over 30,000 Hours to Save Lives. She believes that every person deserves to live, and to live free from fear. That belief has driven Sandy Schmidt, a former victim of domestic violence, to start Women of Worth. It’s a little known secret that Sandy has volunteered completely, giving more than 3,000 hours per year for the past 10 years to ensure that women and children have a place to go. Women of Worth was birthed from Sandy’s own personal experiences with abuse, and the obstacles she faced when trying to start a new life as a single mother with three young children. She founded Women of Worth over 10 years ago, operating without government funding and without receiving a single dime of salary. In 2010, Sandy opened a home for women and children fleeing in fear; a place where they can go to be safe. Sandy knows personally, that when women leave a violent relationship, the risk of fatal injury increases, and she was compelled to open “Hetty’s Haven,” a supportive safe haven (home) where 12-15 women and children can live. Hetty’s Haven enables women to build strength, confidence and trust along their journey to a safe new life. Sandy’s passion is to provide a safe way out for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Beyond shelter, Women of Worth offers practical assistance and support services, including counseling, advocacy, support groups, life skills, mentoring, assistance with medical, legal and re-entry into the workforce and/or schooling, transitional housing, transportation assistance, furniture and personal items. Sandy has rallied the incredible support of her community. The result is that families can live in safety, renewed hopefulness, and growing productively – free from fear, the threat of violence and abuse, which creates a healthier community for all.