Celebrating 50 Years of Growing Hope 🌱 Join Us for Our 50th Anniversary!

Half a century ago, a grassroots collective of women gathered around a local kitchen table with a shared mission: to provide a safe haven for those fleeing domestic violence. From those courageous beginnings in 1976—deeply rooted alongside Lawrence’s historic Spinster Books—The Willow Domestic Violence Center was born as the very first domestic violence center in Kansas.

Fast forward to today, and we are proud to celebrate a major milestone: 50 years of providing life-saving shelter, advocacy, and support to survivors of domestic violence. This year, as we reflect on our journey, we are adopting a theme that honors where we came from and where we are heading: "The Willow: Growing Hope Since 1976."

Help Us Tell Willow's Story!

Calling all former staff, volunteers, and board members: we want to hear your memories! Share your experience here or email Adrianne Nuñez, Director of Communications, at communications@willowdvcenter.org.

Shop Willow Gear for a Cause

Show your support in style! We’ve partnered with LFK Press to launch a merch store featuring 50th-anniversary swag. Every purchase directly benefits survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Get your gear here! 

Orders must be submitted by August 30th, 2026.

"Only One Tree in a Forest"

While we take pride in our 50-year legacy, we know that lasting safety and healing do not happen in isolation. Domestic violence is deeply intertwined with broader needs like safe housing, healthcare, education, and food security.

Our work is only possible because of you—our incredible network of partners, volunteers, donors, and advocates.

You're Invited: Rooted in Hope – The Willow's 50th Reunion

To celebrate half a century of community impact, we’d love for you to gather with us! Whether you are a past volunteer, former staff member, board alum, community partner, or dedicated supporter, please join us for our signature anniversary event:

• What: Rooted in Hope: The Willow's 50th Reunion (Dinner, Live Auction & Fundraiser)

• When: Thursday, October 1, 2026

• Why: To honor our history, support survivors, and ensure The Willow can continue growing hope for the next 50 years.

Tickets

Please purchase your ticket here. For additional information and sponsorship opportunities, please visit willowdvcenter.org/50threunion

Thank you for standing by us for 50 years. Together, we keep hope growing.

With gratitude,

Adrianne Nuñez, Director of Communications

communications@willowdvcenter.org

and

Roxie Lytle, Director of Development

rlytle@willowdvcenter.org