ABOUT
US
SAHELI represents six words that define our
services: Support, Advocate, Heal, Empower, Listen, and Inform.
SAHELI was founded in 1992 as an informal support group for Asian
women living in the Austin area. Through their discussions, they
realized a need for an organization focused on family violence among
Asian immigrants.
In 1993, SAHELI's mission and confidential telephone
help line were established. In 1994, SAHELI became a 501(c)(3) organization.
SAHELI operated as an all volunteer organization
supported primarily by the community for twelve years. In 2001,
SAHELI started an AmeriCorps*VISTA program. With the help of fulltime
AmeriCorps*VISTA volunteers, its capacity increased substantially
over a period of three years. In September 2004, it was selected
by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission's Family Violence
Program to provide advocacy and community education as a Special
Non-Residential Project. This award has made it possible to significantly
expand SAHELI's programs with the addition of two employees.
In 2003, SAHELI received 521 calls
on its help line and provided peer counseling, referrals, advocacy
and other assistance to 96 women and their families.
SAHELI has about 90 members and volunteers, composed
of women and men of different countries, backgrounds, and experiences.
Last year, our dedicated volunteers donated over 7,000
hours of service.
SAHELI has been recognized by the Texas Council
on Family Violence, SafePlace, and The Political Asylum Project
of Austin for its unique advocacy role, long-standing service and
commitment.
Today, SAHELI continues to
serve Austin and surrounding communities. Our volunteers include
men and women from diverse backgrounds. To find out more about becoming
a SAHELI volunteer, please visit the Volunteer
section of our website.
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