Chrysalis

One of Chrysalis’s core programs is a shelter, which can house women, children and male victims of domestic abuse. “‘Home’ is what encompasses safety,” says president and CEO Patricia Klahr. “They come to our home to escape the violence.” One in four women and one in seven men find themselves in an abusive situation. To celebrate the work that Chrysalis does in serving the victims and bringing awareness to the issue of abuse, the organization presents Chrysalis Honors the Home on April 25 at the Arizona Biltmore. 

The event’s theme will be built around the famous line from The Wizard of Oz, “There’s no place like home.” “The Wizard of Oz represents a lot of what we do,” Klahr says, noting abuse victims must have the strength and courage to leave home when needed. The event will start with a cocktail hour, which guests can enjoy from the hotel patio overlooking the grass. Catering will emphasize comfort food to help conjure “fond memories of growing up.”

The organization expects about 350 people and hopes to raise $300,000 toward its $2.6-million annual budget. Funding support comes from the state government, local municipalities, special events and grants.

Snapshot

• Staffed with master-level licensed family and child therapists, Chrysalis offers a clinical approach to families — providing counseling and help working on issues, case management and assistance finding housing resources.
• The organization’s 360-degree approach to the issue of abuse also includes an offender treatment program that works with more than 100 people every week. “We’re not here to say a person is bad,” explains Klahr. “We want to break the cycle.”
• Chrysalis has been providing services for 33 years. It serves about 1,500 people per year.
• Among its programs are transitional housing and community outreach, which includes working with the court system and probation officers. Chrysalis also offers outpatient counseling, helping those who may find themselves in an abusive situation but not need shelter as well as family members seeking help for a relative.