A Residence of Hope and Healing
Established in 1980, The Beacon is a client-centered community that provides a safe and supportive living environment for adult women in central Iowa who have faced trauma and systemic inequity. These social factors often lead to substance use and involvement with the criminal justice system. The Beacon’s mission is to create a space where women can break this cycle and work toward more fulfilling, productive lives.
In February 2024, we expanded with the addition of The Beacon Village. This former motel has been transformed into 32 efficiency units, offering women the opportunity to regain autonomy while continuing their recovery journey.
Our Mission
Our mission at The Beacon is to create an environment that empowers women in crisis to achieve positive long-term change.
100%
Of Beacon Graduates secure stable housing, employment, and health insurance and maintain sobriety.
100%
Clients experiencing homelessness or the threat of homelessness before entering our program.
Demographics
Of Beacon Village residents have access to continued case management and support services for up to three years after completing the program, helping ensure long-term success.
97%
Clients report experiencing physical, mental health, or substance use conditions.*
85%
Clients are formerly incarcerated and face significant reentry barriers.
77%
Clients reporting domestic violence in their past*
74% White – 13% Black – 11% Latina – 2% Multiracial
*actual number likely much higher
The Client Experience
The Beacon serves adults who identify as women by providing housing and programming. Nearly all of our clients have experienced significant trauma and have a physical or mental disability, with half of our clients facing three or more diagnosed disabilities or mental illnesses.
While at The Beacon, clients participate in individual and group mental health counseling, substance use support groups, healthy relationships courses, case management, social activities, and house meetings. The case manager connects clients with community partners such as the Evelyn K. Davis Center for financial literacy and career development.
Clients are provided with culturally specific support for any marginalized groups to which they may belong. Most importantly, clients are treated with dignity and respect and provided an opportunity to experience family.
We practice intentional diversity by increasing access to The Beacon for members of marginalized communities wanting to experience involvement as staff, Board, volunteers, or clients. We believe that we are a stronger, more effective team because of our diversity and will do the work to uncover and remedy any experiences or systems that disadvantage someone because of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or veteran status.