In the aftermath of the Los Angeles fires, many communities are grappling with the trauma of displacement, loss, and overwhelming uncertainty. The devastation goes beyond the loss of homes, impacting the very core of individuals’ lives—shaking their sense of safety and identity. This trauma is often compounded by the loss of community, routines, and rituals that provide grounding, especially for children, who are among the most vulnerable.

In times like these, the strength of community and collective resilience becomes our greatest asset. They reinforce the urgency of our mission: to create a world where every home is safe. We stand in solidarity with all who have experienced the loss of a safe place, reaffirming our commitment to a future free from harm.

To support you during this challenging time, we’ve created a Hope & Healing Workbook in both English and Spanish. This resource offers practical guidance for youth, parents, caregivers, and educators as they navigate the aftermath of the fires. The workbook includes worksheets, activities, and exercises focused on safety planning, emotional support, and tips for discussing resilience and coping strategies with children.

Additionally, we are providing the Los Angeles Wildfires Resources Kit, also available in English and Spanish. It includes essential resources on safety planning, psychological support, and advice on how to talk to children and adolescents about the fires.

Download our Los Angeles Wildfires Resources Kit in English

Descargue nuestro Kit de Recursos para los Incendios Forestales de Los Ángeles en Español

You can find a comprehensive list of resources below, which includes evacuation information, stress management strategies, and guidance on being an ally to those affected.

Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the brave LAFD firefighters and all the dedicated crews who have traveled from near and far, selflessly risking their lives to protect our communities.

Please stay safe, and email contact@joetorre.org for further assistance.

We are safer, and braver, together.

Updated: 02/06/2025

• Trinka & Sam – The Big Fire: A free coloring book series developed to help young children and families begin to talk about feelings and worries they may have after experiencing a large-scale fire, like a wildfire.
• Speaking with Your Child About Grief: A video to help guide conversations about grief with your children.

• LA County DMH
• Be Well Bruin Peer Run Warm Line
• California Peer-Run Warm Line 24/7 at 855 845 7415

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline  Available 24/7 via phone, text, or online chat. Call: 988
• Disaster Distress Helpline (SAMHSA)  Call: (800) 985-5990
• Trevor Project Lifeline  For LGBTQ+ youth in crisis. Call: (800) 788-7386
• Crisis Text Line  Text “LA” to: 741741
• Substance Abuse Service Helpline  Call: (844) 804-7500
• 211 LA County  Dial: 211 for information and referrals.

• Los Angeles Homeless Outreach Portal (LA-HOP)  Assists people experiencing homelessness.
• L.A. Found  For locating individuals who wander due to cognitive impairments. Call: (833) 569-7651
• Family Urgent Response System (FURS)  Call or Text: 1-833-939-FURS

• Real-time fire alerts: Watch Duty App
• Satellite Fire Map: Fire Incident Data
• Latest Evacuation Map: Evacuation Zones Map
• LA County Emergency Alerts: AlertLA Registration
• Go Bag Tips: What to Put in Your Go Bag
• Resources for Santa-Monica Malibu USD Staff and Families

• Westwood Recreation Center • 1350 S Sepulveda Blvd, 90025
  Open for evacuees and accepts small animals. Now also serves as a shelter for residents to remain overnight.
• LA Dream Center • 2301 Bellevue Ave, 90026
  Providing shelter, clothing, meals, and support for families and animals. Call 213-273-7000.
• Trinity Lutheran Church • 997 E. Walnut St., Pasadena 91106
  Offering hot meals, beds, restrooms, and case management services. Call 888-915-8111 to check shelter activation.
• Pasadena Convention Center • 300 E. Green St., Pasadena 91101
• El Camino Real Charter High School • 5440 Valley Circle Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
• Northridge Park • 10120 Reseda Blvd, Northridge, CA 91324
• Ritchie Valens Recreation Center • 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331
• Sepulveda Recreation Center • 8825 Kester Ave, Panorama City, CA 91402
• Airbnb – Partnering with 211 LA to offer free, temporary housing for those displaced or evacuated. They are specifically focused on residents in the Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Sylmar areas. For more information, visit: 211LA.org/LA-Wildfires

• Los Angeles Equestrian Center • 480 Riverside Dr, Burbank
  Open for large animal evacuations.
• Pierce College Equestrian Center • 7100 El Rancho Drive, Woodland Hills
• Rose Bowl Stadium • 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103
• Agoura Animal Care Center • 29525 Agoura Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
• Pasadena Humane Society • 361 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105

• Canine Rescue Club: Volunteer for displaced pets and animals. Volunteer Here
• My Safe LA: Partners with the LA Fire Department to enhance community resilience. Volunteer Here
• American Red Cross: Urgent need for disaster shelter volunteers. Volunteer Here
• Volunteer Los Angeles County: Various disaster response and recovery efforts. Volunteer Here

• Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund: Supporting recovery efforts for major California wildfires. Donate Here
• California Fire Foundation: Provides immediate relief to wildfire victims. Donate Here
• Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles: Assisting with rebuilding homes. Donate Here
• Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Supporting firefighters battling the wildfires. Donate Here
• World Central Kitchen: Serving meals to communities impacted by natural disasters. Donate Here

The holiday season can bring joy, but it can also create stress, sadness, and emotional challenges. With kids home from school and the hustle of holiday activities, stress levels can rise quickly for parents/caregivers and children alike. Prioritizing your mental health is essential, and carving out moments for self-care can make a big difference. Here are five strategies to help you stay grounded and centered throughout the holidays.

Self-care is essential during the holidays. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that nearly 38% of people report higher stress levels during the season. Taking time for activities that rejuvenate you—whether it’s a quiet walk, reading a book, or engaging in relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation—can help you stay balanced. Be sure to set boundaries to protect your time and energy. Consider downloading our Winter Wellness & Self-Care Plan that includes physical and mental health practices to help you stay grounded.

Quick Self-Care Tips:

• Take Breaks: Find moments to rest and recharge throughout your day.
• Stay Active: Regular physical activity boosts mood and reduces stress.
• Set Boundaries: Saying “no” when you need time for yourself is vital for mental well-being.

Download our Winter Wellness & Self-Care Plan

Descarga nuestro Plan de Bienestar y Cuidado Personal de Invierno en Español.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to know that support is available. During the holidays, many people experience increased mental health struggles, and seeking help is crucial. Whether you need someone to talk to or professional support, there are numerous resources available to assist you.

Helpful Resources:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741
• Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Our Holiday Mental Health Resource Guide also provides practical steps and support for individuals and families navigating the emotional challenges of the season.

Descarga nuestro Guía de Recursos Para Los Días Festivo en Espanol. 

Descarga nuestro Guía de Recursos Para Los Días Festivo en Espanol. 

For many, the holiday season can be especially difficult due to grief and loss. Whether it’s the passing of a loved one or another form of loss, it’s important to acknowledge and process these feelings in a healthy way. Activities like journaling, creating a memory jar, or simply taking time to reflect on your emotions can help provide comfort during this time. Remember, grief doesn’t have a set timeline, and it’s okay to feel however you feel during the holidays.

View our video “Speaking to Your Child About Grief” for support navigating conversations during these difficult times.

Mira nuestro video “Hablando con tu hijo sobre el duelo” para obtener apoyo al navegar conversaciones durante estos tiempos difíciles.

This holiday season, prioritize your mental health by practicing these coping strategies. Remember, it’s okay to take a step back when needed, seek support, and focus on what truly matters. The holidays don’t have to be perfect—they can be meaningful when we take care of ourselves and each other.

Paper Snowflake Tutorial

Estrategias de Afrontamiento Saludables y Dañinas

The holiday season invites us to reflect on gratitude, build stronger connections, and give back to our communities. It’s a special time to gather with loved ones, share stories, and engage in traditions that celebrate unity and compassion. Research shows that intergenerational connections—between grandparents, parents, children, and extended family—not only deepen bonds but also boost mental well-being and resilience for everyone involved.

Building connections across generations allows family members to learn from each other’s experiences. Intergenerational relationships foster empathy, reduce isolation, and give youth valuable insights into family history and cultural heritage (Kaplan, 2018). In a world where isolation and stress are prevalent, these meaningful bonds offer a sense of belonging and continuity.

• Shared Hobbies or Skills: Engage in activities where one generation teaches the other—whether cooking, technology, or crafts. These shared experiences create lasting memories and deepen mutual understanding.

2. Foster Respectful Dialogue

• Practice Active Listening: Show respect by listening attentively and avoiding interruptions.
• Share Family Stories: Focus on stories that highlight family strength and resilience. These create shared history and reinforce connections.
• Keep an Open Mind: Encourage curiosity by asking questions and showing interest in each other’s experiences, bridging generational gaps. Try our A Walk In My Shoes: Family Art Activity to get to know your loved ones more deeply.

3. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude enhances well-being, increasing happiness, reducing depression, and strengthening relationships (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). To foster gratitude this holiday season, consider these activities:

• Gratitude Jar: Create a family gratitude jar, where everyone can jot down things they’re thankful for throughout the month. At the end of the season, take time to read each note aloud and reflect together as a family. You can also download our Gratitude Jar worksheet. 
• Thank You Notes: Encourage family members to write thank you notes to people who’ve made a positive impact in their lives. This simple act strengthens connections.
• Gratitude Circle: During family gatherings, ask everyone to share one thing they’re grateful for. This practice sparks meaningful conversation and reinforces a sense of togetherness.

4. Give Back and Volunteer

Volunteering together during the holiday season encourages compassion and gives younger generations a hands-on understanding of generosity and empathy. According to Psychology Today, volunteering can increase life satisfaction and reduce stress, especially when done as part of a group (Schwartz, 2018).

Consider these ideas for giving back as a family:

• Community Service Projects: Volunteer at local food banks, shelters, or other community centers. Consider using the Deed App to find volunteer opportunities.
• Assemble Care Packages: Create care packages with essentials like food, hygiene products, and notes of encouragement. Assembling packages together can spark conversations about gratitude and giving, making a positive impact on those in need. Use our care package checklist for support.
• Support Local Organizations: Find a cause that resonates with your family, such as youth empowerment or elder care, and support it through donations or volunteer work. This shared experience can create a sense of purpose and community involvement.

November brings Movember, a global movement spotlighting men’s mental health and well-being. It’s the perfect time to address the unique challenges faced by boys, young men, and male-identifying individuals. Societal pressures often discourage vulnerability and help-seeking, leaving many feeling isolated. However, building community and fostering connection can significantly bolster resilience and improve mental health outcomes.

Supporting youth mental health doesn’t always require professional intervention. Small actions can make a big impact:

1. Encourage Open Conversations

Ask open-ended questions like, “How did that make you feel?” or “What might make this situation easier?”

Download our Conversation Cards for Changemakers to spark meaningful discussions at home or in group settings.

Or view our video on Effective Communication: A Guide For Parents

2. Model Healthy Coping Skills

Demonstrate techniques like journaling or deep breathing, encouraging youth to explore what works for them.

For extra support, download our Coping Skills Worksheet—a helpful tool to guide youth in identifying and practicing healthy ways to manage stress and emotions.

Download our Coping Skills Worksheet in English

Descarga nuestra hoja de Trabajo de Habilidades de Afrontamiento en Español

3. Normalize Seeking Help

Emphasize that asking for support is a strength. Share emergency resources to ensure youth know where to turn.

Finding support is a vital step in fostering mental health and resilience. Here are resources tailored to men, boys, and male-identifying individuals to promote self-care, connection, and well-being:

General Mental Health Resources:

• Movember Men’s Health Resources: Offers valuable resources specifically tailored to men’s mental health, including self-care tips, peer support programs, and educational materials.
• A Call to Men: Focuses on promoting healthy, respectful manhood by challenging traditional gender norms and offering tools to help boys and young men build stronger emotional connections and advocate for gender equity.
• Boys Town: Provides resources on social skills and coping strategies tailored for young boys and teenagers.

Emergency Support Services:

• Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741 for free, confidential support 24/7.
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate help and resources.
• Boys Town National Hotline: Call 1-800-448-3000 or text “VOICE” to 20121 for support from trained counselors.
• Love is Respect: Text “LOVEIS” to 22522 or call 1-866-331-9474 for guidance on unhealthy or abusive relationships.

Encourage youth in need to take the first step toward seeking help. Support is always available to create safer, braver spaces for all.

Join Us This Movember

This Movember, let’s challenge stigma and foster a culture of openness and resilience for male-identifying youth. Whether by joining initiatives, downloading resources, or simply starting a conversation, we can make a difference. Together, we can create safer, braver spaces where all youth can thrive.

Explore more resources.

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a crucial time to raise awareness, educate the public, and promote essential resources to prevent domestic violence. Each year, domestic violence affects millions, leaving lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars. At the same time, Safe At Home is committed to fostering safer, braver spaces for those impacted by domestic violence. Through our trauma-informed Margaret’s Place programs, we provide direct support to students in schools by offering counseling, education, and peer leadership programs that help young people build healthy relationships.

Even if your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place program, this month, we are sharing valuable resources to empower communities and equip them with the tools needed to make a difference both inside and outside the classroom.

Although domestic violence can impact anyone, certain populations are more vulnerable. Recognizing how domestic violence affects different communities is crucial to ensuring equitable support and culturally sensitive resources.

These statistics demonstrate the diverse ways in which domestic violence affects different communities and highlight the need for culturally competent, inclusive resources to address this widespread issue.

Abuse can often be difficult to recognize, especially in relationships where power and control are involved. Here are some common signs that may indicate an abusive relationship:

• Extreme Jealousy: Constantly accusing you of being unfaithful or questioning who you spend time with
• Possessiveness: Acting as if they “own” you, controlling what you wear, where you go and who you see.
• Isolation: Cutting you off from friends, family, or social activities. They may guilt you into staying home or discourage you from seeing others.
• Constant Criticism: Regularly belittling you, calling you names, or making you feel worthless. They may make you doubt your self-worth or abilities.
• Blaming You for Their Behavior: Saying things like, “If you didn’t do that, I wouldn’t have gotten triggered,” or blaming you for their problems or bad mood.
• Unpredictable Mood Swings: Switching from being loving and caring to angry and violent without warning. You might feel like you’re “walking on eggshells”. 

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to reach out for immediate help and support. Abusive behavior will often escalate over time, and early intervention is key to preventing further harm.

Remember, there is help and abuse is never your fault.

Starting conversations about domestic violence can feel overwhelming, but it’s essential to foster understanding and create safer spaces for all. Whether you’re communicating with children, teens, friends, or seeking help yourself, here’s how to approach these important discussions during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond.

Communicating with Younger Children (Elementary Age)

Communicating with Teens and High School Students

Whether you are a student, educator, or supporter, everyone can play a role in creating safer, braver spaces this Domestic Violence Awareness Month. View upcoming events and ways to get involved below:

NYC Domestic Violence Awareness Month Events:

A full list of Domestic Violence Awareness Month events happening throughout New York City.

View the New York Calendar.

California Partnership to End Domestic Violence Events:

Find Domestic Violemce Awarenss Month events across California that promote awareness and action.

View the California Calendar.

Running Your Own Domestic Violence Awareness Month Campaign

Throughout the month, our Margaret’s Place counselors and Peer Leaders will be leading school-wide campaigns, promoting respect, healthy relationships, and raising awareness about domestic violence. Even if your school or community doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place program, you can still make an impact by running your own Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign. Here’s how to get started:

1. Set a Goal: Define the focus of your campaign, whether it’s promoting healthy relationships, mental health, or domestic violence awareness.
2. Engage Your Community: Plan events, distribute flyers, and use social media to raise awareness. Encourage participation through events, workshops, or activities.
3. Create Materials: Get creative with social media graphics, posters, and videos to make your message impactful.
4. Collaborate with Peers: Work with your student body or local organizations to amplify your campaign’s reach.

For more detailed steps and ideas, check out our Campaign Tip Sheet.

Remember, you don’t need to be part of Margaret’s Place to make a difference!

Domestic violence is an issue that affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, lets educate ourselves, further support those in need, and raise awareness, so that together, we can create a future where everyone feels safer and braver.

Explore more resources.

The start of a new school year is a time full of anticipation, opportunities, and challenges for students, parents, and teachers alike. This period is more than just a return to the classroom; it’s an opportunity to reset, create new routines, and foster a supportive community where everyone can flourish. 

Whether you’re a student facing new challenges or an adult guiding young people through them, this season offers the chance to embrace growth and healing.

Establish a routine that includes time for relaxation and self-care. Setting aside time each evening to unwind can make a difference.

We love this recommendation from the Calm App on creating a balanced daily routine: Daily Routine Tips.

Another fun way to dedicate time to self-care is through our Self-Care Bingo card. Download it and find inspiration for taking care of yourself.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s a counselor, a teacher, or a peer, support is available.

At Margaret’s Place, we offer trauma-informed counseling and peer support to help students navigate these challenges.

If your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place program, look for other school resources or local community organizations dedicated to mental health and well-being.

Follow us on social media for tips and resources throughout the school year:

Instagram: @SafeAtHomeFoundation | @Margarets_Place

Twitter: @SafeAtHomeFound

Facebook: Safe At Home Foundation

TikTok: @Margarets_Place

Back to school is also about finding your place in the community—whether you’re new to the school or returning after a break.

Be a Good Friend: Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in creating a supportive environment. Discover more about the power of friendship with this article from the Jed Foundation: The Power of Friendship.

Be an Upstander: Learn how to be an upstander and make a positive impact in your school community: How to Be an Upstander.

If You’re the New Kid: Remember that everyone has been new at some point. Take small steps to reach out, whether it’s joining a club or simply starting a conversation with a classmate. Here are some conversation starters to help you break the ice:

Starting a conversation with these topics can help you connect with others and find common ground. Good luck!

Utilize Resources: Schools often have numerous resources available to help students feel connected. Check with your teacher, advisor, or the front office to find out what’s available.

Your role is vital in helping students navigate the ups and downs of the school year. Encourage open communication and be a source of stability as they adjust to new routines.

Read these tips for healthy parent-child communication: Healthy Parent-Child Communication.

Managing Your Own Stress: Adults often feel the pressure of the back-to-school season just as much as students. Prioritize self-care and manage your time effectively to avoid burnout. Refer to our Managing Stress & Anxiety recommendations above for support.

Set Realistic Goals: Whether you’re a student or an adult, setting achievable goals can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the year. Use this worksheet from TherapistAid to break down your goals: Goal Breakdown Worksheet.

You can also save our SMART Goals Tracker below to guide you through setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals, making it easier to monitor your success and celebrate your milestones.

Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and other responsibilities with planners, apps, or to-do lists. Explore free downloads to find a planner that suits your needs: Free Planner Downloads.

Take Breaks: Remember that taking breaks is essential for maintaining mental health. Ensure your routine includes time for relaxation and downtime.

At Safe At Home, we are dedicated to creating safe spaces where students can heal and grow. Our groundbreaking Margaret’s Place program offers trauma-informed counseling, peer leadership opportunities, and community-building initiatives, all designed to empower students and support their well-being. Since our inception, Margaret’s Place has made a profound impact, with over 181,000 youth, families, and communities served across the country. We are proud to have 20 Margaret’s Place sites in school communities across California, New York, Connecticut, and Tahiti. Through a partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, we will open 9 additional schools this year.

Read our 2022-2023 Impact Report and stay tuned for the 2023-2024 report available this fall. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified when it’s released.

As we continue to expand our program sites, we aim to extend the healing impact of Margaret’s Place beyond the four walls of the room. Through our blog, newsletters, social media, and website, we offer resources, tips, and tools to support students, families, and educators nationwide. Even if your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place, you can still access valuable resources to help you navigate challenges and foster a supportive community.

This event is part of a larger initiative where over 45 MiLB teams are participating from June 9 until September 2, 2024. Each participating team will raffle or auction off a Joe Torre autographed baseball, with proceeds benefiting either Safe At Home, or a local domestic violence organization. Teams will also distribute educational materials, share Safe At Home’s 30 second PSA, and engage with local domestic violence organizations to further extend our reach and impact.

Our partnership with MiLB allows us take the healing powers of Margaret’s place beyond the classroom and into the ballpark, empowering fans across the country to join us in our mission. As Joe himself said, “Millions are exposed to violence, trauma, and abuse every year. It is vital that we raise awareness and that they have access to support. We are proud to partner with Minor League Baseball and Topps to educate and inspire MiLB fans to make a difference and join us in cultivating a new generation of healthy, respectful relationships, where everybody feels safe at home.”

The success of “Joe Torre Night” with the Somerset Patriots is a testament to the power of community and sports in driving positive change. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Somerset Patriots community, and especially to the Kalafer family, for their unwavering support of our mission. It was a night filled with baseball, hope, and a shared commitment to making the world a safer place for children and families.

For more opportunities to support Safe At Home through our partnership with MiLB, including finding upcoming games in your area, visit joetorre.org/milb.

Read more about the event from MiLB    |    Read our Press Release

NEW YORK, August 9, 2024 — Joe Torre Safe At Home today announced that Chris Flood, Verizon’s Atlantic North Market President, and Jeff Proctor, President and Founder of television production company ProAngle Media, have joined its Board of Directors.

In his current role as Verizon’s Atlantic North Market President, Flood is responsible for overseeing all consumer sales, distribution, and operational execution across the market’s 12 states and the District of Columbia, leading a team of more than 2,900 employees. Flood is a distinguished leader with a remarkable 22- year career at Verizon, during which he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a proven track record of success. In the Atlantic North Market, he has cultivated a culture of integrity, performance excellence, transparency, and a strong commitment to giving back to the communities Verizon serves. In his previous role, Flood served as the Consumer Vice President of Verizon Consumer Group’s Northeast Region, where he led corporate retail and indirect sales.

“It is a privilege to join Safe At Home, and it’s a responsibility that I embrace with great pride and excitement,” said Flood. “I am honored to be a part of this incredible organization and contribute to its mission of providing essential resources, security and hope to children impacted by domestic violence.”

With more than 30 years of experience in television production, Proctor produced hundreds of professional and collegiate sporting events and served as executive producer for thousands of others. He is the President and Founder of ProAngle Media, a production company responsible for local and national telecasts for clients such as CBS, ESPN, FOX, the Los Angeles Chargers, among others. Recently, Proctor expanded beyond his primary focus on sports to develop, sell and produce game show “Person, Place or Thing,” which currently airs on nearly 200 television stations nationally. Prior to establishing ProAngle, Proctor was the Vice President of Sports for KCBS and KCAL where he oversaw the duopoly’s sports content.

“I am excited and honored to be a part of Safe At Home,” said Proctor. “Not only am I a long-time admirer of Joe and Ali Torre, but to be a part of such an incredible organization that helps kids in need is very satisfying and rewarding. I look forward to helping Safe At Home accomplish its mission of helping at risk kids cope with their trauma and find hope and healing for their futures.”

More than 20 years ago, Ali and Joe Torre founded Safe At Home to end the cycle of violence and abuse through education. Today, with education as its foundation, in schools and beyond, it strengthens every person’s courage, knowledge, and resilience through healthy relationship building, coping and self- care tools, and accessible resources. It teaches children, families, and communities to be changemakers who build a world free from harm. Through its Margaret’s Place model, named in honor of Joe’s mother, Safe at Home creates a safe space in schools, offering both trauma informed intervention and prevention services for empowerment, education, and understanding. Safe at Home currently has 20 Margaret’s Place sites that operate in New York and Westchester, NY; Los Angeles, CA; Cincinnati, OH; and Tahiti, French Polynesia. This school year, Margaret’s Place programs have reached 21,394 students, and since its inception, Safe At Home has served more than 181,000 youth, their families and communities.

For more information, visit www.joetorre.org.

###

Media Contact:
Sabrina Strauss
Goodman Media International
sstrauss@goodmanmedia.com

Participants in the tennis clinic and round-robin tournament put in their best efforts, working up a sweat and enjoying the beautiful weather. Meanwhile, golfers competed in a “Best Ball” format, aiming for the lowest net and gross scores. The camaraderie and friendly competition were highlights of the day. 

Congratulations to all of our award winners:

Low Gross: Bob Devlin, Michael Devlin, Michael Gilmore, John Hoffman, Elliot Levine, John Starks

Low Net: Andrew Clarke, Mike Shea, Sean Byrne, Brian Shapiro, Matt Boland

Closest to the Pin: Scott Burrell, Marie Jensen

Longest Drive: Whit Mayberry, Johanna Redpath

Tennis Round Robin: Maury Gostfrand, Steve Pastor, Lori Sunkin, Andrea Torre

Maile Zambuto, our CEO, spoke about the transformative power of the Margaret’s Place programs, sharing inspiring stories of students who have found hope and healing through Safe At Home. She also took a moment to recognize and introduce our honoree, Frank Longobardi, a dedicated board member whose passion, leadership, and support have been instrumental in Safe At Home’s growth and success. Frank’s heartfelt remarks highlighted the importance of our mission and the impact we continue to make. His energy and motivation were also key in driving the success of our evening pledge donations.

We were also honored to be joined by Fritz Simeon, a recent graduate of White Plains HS where we have had a Margaret’s Place program for over 15 years. Fritz moved many in the audience as he spoke about the support and guidance he received through Margaret’s Place, specifically through Ms. S, who accompanied Fritz on stage. Ms. S started her journey as a Margaret’s Place student and is now guiding students to heal and grow through the same supportive environment—a true testament to the transformative power of our programs.

One of the highlights of the evening was the panel featuring Joe Torre, Ken Daneyko, John Starks, Jim Leyritz, and Tim O’Neill. The panelists reminisced about their days in sports, sharing laughs, insights, and previously unheard stories. The conversation provided a unique perspective on their illustrious careers and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our Golf & Tennis Committee: Bob Murray, Chair; Kyle Driscoll; Rob Gaynor; Maury Gostfrand; Tim O’Neill; Gerry Polizzi; Matt Roux. Special thanks to the Kalafer family, Clinton Honda, and Land Rover Princeton for sponsoring our Hole-in-One cars on holes 7 & 10, to Major League Baseball and Pedigree Ski Shop for their generous gift bag donations, to Capital One for their raffle donation, to WFAN radio for broadcasting live throughout the day, Goodman Media International, Inc. for their media support, our event photographer John Chan, our staff and volunteers, our sponsors, and to all our celebrity guests who made the event even more memorable. Your unwavering support is the backbone of our efforts to create safer, braver spaces for children and families.

Thank you to everyone who participated and made the 2024 Annual Golf & Tennis Classic a truly unforgettable event. As we reflect on this incredible day, we are filled with gratitude and inspiration. The funds raised will directly benefit Safe At Home’s groundbreaking Margaret’s Place initiative, allowing us to continue providing safe spaces for empowerment, education, and understanding.

Join us in shaping a world free from harm. We are safer, and braver, together.

Some factors that come into play are:

• Increased stresses due to summer break for children
• Increased temperatures
• Increase in alcohol and drug intake. NOTE: While these factors may possibly increase abuse, they are certainly not the cause of domestic violence and are not to blame; intoxication doesn’t cause abuse, and sobriety doesn’t stop it.
• Increased numbers of parties, drinking, and idle time make teen dating violence tragic for many young people.
• The Department of Justice also found that women ages 16 to 24 are at the highest risk of becoming victims of domestic violence.

(Source: Bridges Domestic Violence Center)

In an effort to support our community and provide helpful tools, we’re sharing free resources and opportunities for youth and adults, focusing on personal growth, educational exploration, and community engagement. We hope these summer resources provide enriching and memorable experiences so that we can make the most of this time away from school. Enjoy and have a safe summer ahead!

Explore our YouTube playlist to learn about different ways to self-care, the importance of self-care, and how you can best find the balance in caring for yourself and others.

Consider incorporating these mind/body exercises from joetorre.org into your routine to enhance your well-being.

• Grounding Exercise
• Mindful Gardening
• Movement Challenge
• Self-Talk Mirror Work
• Walking Meditation

Insight Timer features a vast library of free guided meditations, music tracks, and talks from mindfulness experts to support your daily meditation practice.

Nap Ministry: Call 1-833-LUV-NAPS for pre-recorded rest messages from Tricia Hersey to encourage and promote the importance of rest as a form of self-care.

Psychiatric Emergency Rooms for children 18 and younger. Not all hospitals have these facilities, but children can be evaluated in any emergency room and hospital staff will consult with the family about next steps.

• TEEN LINE: (310) 855-HOPE or (800) TLC-TEEN / (800) 852-8336. A teen-to-teen hotline with community outreach services, 6pm-10pm PST daily. Visit Teen Line Online for more info.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. Visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233. Visit thehotline.org.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. Visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

• In cases of emergency, call 911 immediately.

Teens are typically matched to a therapist licensed in New York within 24 hours. Once signed up, they have access to one live video session per month and unlimited messaging therapy from their computer or cellphone. Teens can send messages to their Talkspace therapist 24/7. Therapists generally respond every day, 5 days per week.