When Isle of Hope resident Monica Burgstiner joined the board of SAFE Shelter in 2016, she brought more than professional support to the organization — she brought personal understanding.

Before moving to Isle of Hope in 2021, Burgstiner spent several years volunteering with SAFE Shelter, whose mission is to protect victims of domestic abuse while helping prevent future violence through empowerment and change. The organization provides housing, food, counseling, and protection services for women and children rebuilding their lives after abuse.

Burgstiner first became involved by photographing mothers and children at the shelter for Mother’s Day. Over time, she began photographing fundraising events, sharing her own story as a survivor, and eventually serving on the board of directors for six years.

Her motivation stemmed from her own experience escaping an abusive relationship before meeting her husband.

“My biggest challenge was allowing myself to be vulnerable,” Burgstiner says. “It is vulnerable to share your story and hold space for those who need it.”

Despite the emotional weight of the work, she says the most meaningful moments have come from hearing from other survivors who felt safe enough to ask for help or share their experiences.

“You just need one person to hear you,” she says.

Although Burgstiner stepped away from the board after the birth of her second daughter, SAFE Shelter remains close to her heart. She still promotes and attends events when possible and hopes to become more involved again in the future. She is also working on an ADHD-focused children’s book series aimed at encouraging and supporting young readers.