Member Profile: Hope and Safety Alliance
For nearly 50 years, Hope & Safety Alliance (formerly known as Womenspace) has been a steadfast presence for individuals and families facing domestic violence in Lane County. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a vital organization offering emergency shelter, legal advocacy, housing support, and a 24-hour crisis line, meeting each survivor with compassion and care. The Springfield Chamber spoke with Development Manager Cassondra Nielsen to learn how her personal journey led her to this work, and how Hope & Safety Alliance continues to bring life-changing support and education to the community through collaboration, advocacy, and a deep belief in the power of hope.
Tell us a little about Hope & Safety Alliance.
Hope & Safety Alliance (Womenspace, at the time) began nearly 50 years ago as a small grassroots effort and has since grown into an integral part of Lane County. What started as a group of dedicated community members offering safe refuge has evolved into a comprehensive organization. We provide a 24-hour crisis line, in-person advocacy, ODHS programs, legal support services, shelter, housing support services, support groups, and more—always tailoring our services to meet the unique needs of each survivor. Through strong partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community members, we work to raise awareness, share education on intimate partner violence, and connect those experiencing domestic violence with life-saving resources.
How did you get started in your industry?
My path into this work began after experiencing domestic violence in my own life. In a moment of crisis, I reached out for services through what was then Womenspace, and the advocate I connected with quite literally saved my life and changed its direction. With their support, I was able to find housing, attend support groups, and overcome the many barriers I faced. That experience ignited a passion in me to give back. About a year later, I joined the team as a crisis line advocate, eventually moving into our housing program and later supervising it before stepping into my current role as Development Manager. Now, I have the privilege of sharing our mission and building community support so we can continue offering life-saving services. It has been one of the greatest gifts of my life to turn my own healing into a way of serving others.
What services do you offer and what makes Hope & Safety Alliance different?
For decades, our agency has been an essential part of the community—offering emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis and support line, legal advocacy, and comprehensive programs that empower survivors to rebuild their lives. Working alongside local partners, volunteers, and supporters, we bring hope and safety to thousands of individuals and their children every year.
What do you like most about your work?
What I like most about my work is that I truly believe in our mission, and I feel proud to tell people what I do for a living. Every day, I get to be part of something that changes lives. Just last week, I helped a mom and her 8-year-old son who had been through years of torment and had been homeless for the past month. When we placed them in a hotel, the little boy was jumping up and down in the parking lot, telling his mom, “I’m sorry, I’m trying so hard to behave, but I’m just so excited! I was so tired of camping.” It was gut-wrenching. But on my drive home, I kept thinking about how extraordinary it is to be able to provide that kind of a service. I feel privileged to have experienced something like that, and I am so grateful to be part of it.
Any advice for others?
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out. There are many resources and supports available that you may not be aware of. Education and prevention are key to breaking the cycle.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I’m excited to join the Chamber of Commerce and connect with fellow members. As a lifelong Springfield resident, I have a deep love for this town, its people, and the incredible natural beauty that surrounds us. I’ve spent my life enjoying the rivers, fishing, camping, and exploring the outdoors here, and I care deeply about seeing our community thrive. I’m passionate about supporting local businesses and look forward to sharing ideas, building connections, and collaborating with you all!
About Hope & Safety Alliance
Hope & Safety Alliance has been providing hope and safety to survivors of domestic violence for over 45 years. Each year they serve thousands of survivors and children from our urban and rural communities in Lane County.
Their MISSION is to protect, shelter, and empower survivors of domestic violence- offering safety, support, and resources with compassion and trauma-informed care.
Their VALUES: Domestic violence does not discriminate therefore Hope & Safety Alliance serves all survivors and is committed to maintaining a trauma informed safe space where everyone is welcome.
They believe everyone has the right to a life free from violence and fear of abuse.
