SafeHorns, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving safety on and around the University of Texas-Austin campus, is seeking community support to prevent the closure of its West Campus location. The space, known as “SafeHorns Place,” is situated in the basement of the Congregational Church on West 23rd Street and has become a vital resource for many UT students.
Since its establishment nearly two years ago, SafeHorns Place has provided a venue for educational events, self-defense workshops, and community-building activities. Organizers emphasize its role as a supportive environment for students navigating the complexities of university life. “It gives them a space to be, and it’s central. It’s in the heart of the community,” said Joell McNew, president of SafeHorns. “It’s made such a positive impact. We hate to leave the space.”
Background and Community Impact
SafeHorns was founded in the wake of the tragic death of UT student Haruka Weiser in 2016, an incident that underscored the need for enhanced safety measures on campus. McNew noted that the organization has since worked diligently to promote student safety and contribute to revitalizing the surrounding area. “So many amazing people came together—our parents, community members—to support us, to take over the rent here, to clean it up, to activate it as a student community space. It has made a tremendous positive impact,” she stated.
The organization operates entirely on donations, and with its funding sources dwindling, SafeHorns has set a goal to raise $75,000 to maintain operations through the end of the year. McNew emphasized that ongoing community support is critical for the organization to continue its mission. “It helps us to continue our mission in a bigger way if we can stay in this space,” she explained. “And the only way we can do that is with donations.”
Call to Action and Future Plans
As SafeHorns faces the potential loss of its West Campus space, the organization is actively reaching out to the community for assistance. The funding campaign aims not only to secure the current location but also to expand the services offered to students. McNew hopes that the community will rally together to support this initiative. “We are calling on everyone who believes in the importance of safety and community for students to lend their support,” she said.
The impact of SafeHorns Place extends beyond just a physical location; it represents a commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for students at the University of Texas-Austin. As the organization navigates this challenging time, it remains focused on its mission of enhancing student safety and community engagement.
For those interested in contributing to SafeHorns, donations can be made through their official website, where more information about their programs and initiatives is also available. The community’s support can ensure that SafeHorns continues to be a beacon of safety and support for UT students.
