Beacon Of Life

For almost 40 years, Beacon of Life has been a guiding light for women in our community experiencing homelessness due to trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence and incarceration. Of our residents, 85 percent are rebuilding self-sufficiency after being involved in the criminal justice system. Our program isn’t just about finding a job or having a place to live — it’s about repairing broken relationships, building new ones, creating boundaries and strengthening the mind, body and spirit.

Beacon of Life, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is the only shelter in Central Iowa that provides transitional housing with supportive services in a structured environment exclusive to single women. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, our safe and secure facility is fully equipped with a pantry, kitchen, laundry room, activity room and around-the-clock staff for 34 women. It affords both anonymity and a sense of belonging, allowing our residents to overcome addictions, trauma and personal struggles through our financial, health and wellness, employment and recovery programs.

Often, the women we serve have left everything of their old lives behind: homes, jobs, loved ones — even their sense of self. They are starting over, trying to rediscover who they are meant to be and how they can positively contribute to society. At this stage, it is more important than ever that they have resources they need to develop a healthy identity and carve out their place in the world.

Upon arrival, each woman meets with a case manager to discuss personal goals and a strategy for achieving those goals. We address her physical, emotional, spiritual, financial and social needs, as well as an integrated approach for overall health. This whole-person philosophy requires intense consideration and guidance from our staff, but we find it offers women the best chance for lasting success.

Every woman in our program is treated as a unique, valuable individual and receives referrals specific to her needs. These referrals often involve our trusted community partners, including House of Mercy, Mosaic Family Counseling, Department of Human Services (DHS) and Iowa Workforce Development.

Our five-phase plan can be completed in 6–12 months. As each woman graduates to a higher phase, her level of responsibility and self-motivation increases. Our programs focus on four pillars that act as a foundation for women rebuilding their lives: health and wellness, financial empowerment, employment and recovery.