Haven House
The Haven House strategy brings together caring residents who are willing to reach out to their neighbors in thoughtful and considerate ways. Haven House leaders are volunteers who turn strangers into friends on the block where they live. This strategy is for every neighborhood in Abilene because the need for building relationships crosses economic, racial and social boundaries. Through their simple acts of kindness, Haven House leaders are changing the world - one neighbor at a time.
Each Haven House is led by a volunteer who systematically unites neighbors on the block where they live. Marked by a ‘We Care’ sign in their yard, Haven House leaders are visible to others and commit to the process of remaking community at the base-level. Equipped for effectiveness, these residents work to build a strong network of relationships within their neighborhood that spills over into work, hobbies, volunteerism, health and every aspect of life.
Haven House strategy provides a practical mechanism to help residents meet, interact and grow in relationships with their neighbors. Haven House leaders may host block parties, take meals to a sick neighbor, help find a lost pet, share garden produce, mow a yard or just offer a listening ear. And because CCC works to build partnerships, Haven House leaders have access to resources and information through CCC’s partners to aid their block and neighborhood.
Haven House leaders, like our Friendship Houses, become the link between community resources and residents in various areas of our city.
This city-wide effort ripples from neighbors on blocks to entire neighborhoods and creates relational community, a sense of neighborhood pride and increased safety. This single strategy, if accomplished, would truly transform our city into a community of caring.
CCC offers regular trainings for interested Haven House leaders from every Abilene neighborhood. At these fun training sessions, individuals are equipped with resources and ideas for building relationships and transforming their block and neighborhood. Once trained, volunteers are given a “We Care” sign for their yard and are asked to commit to one year of service. To learn more about our trainings and to get started, check our calendar for the dates of our upcoming Haven House trainings and register for the training of your choice online.
We also provide encouragement to Haven House leaders through a monthly meeting and newsletter to share ideas, deepen relationships, work toward solutions, network and have fun. This is a great way to continue building relationships with other caring persons in our community who have also committed to renewal on their block.