The Safe Haven Project is an initiative created by EnactusOC, designed to address the alarming issue of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). The World Health Organization identifies IPV as a global public health concern. In Canada , 44% of women reported experiencing IPV, and in 2019, 80% of survivors did not report incidents to the police. Our mission is to raise awareness, provide resources, and offer education to support survivors within our community.

We have collaborated with Supporting Survivors of Abuse and Brain Injury through Research (SOAR), an organization dedicated to investigating the intersection of brain injury and IPV, and other community partners to create discreet resources, such as booklets and educational materials. Through campaigns, trauma-informed training, and partnerships with local counselling services, Safe Haven Project has engaged over 200 post-secondary students in raising awareness about IPV.

In addition to raising awareness, we are committed to empowering survivors by offering interest-free micro-loans in partnership with a local credit union. These micro-loans will help survivors transition to stable housing and rebuild their financial independence. Each recipient is also provided with trauma-informed therapy grants and personalized financial coaching, supported by our partners at Connect Counselling & Therapy and Launch Okanagan.

Our vision extends beyond individual support. We aim to educate post-secondary students across British Columbia on preventing Intimate Partner Violence through partnerships with Enactus teams and the development of a comprehensive Resource Guide. By the end of 2025, we plan to impact over 13,000 post-secondary students and provide life-changing support to 25 individuals through our micro-loan program.