About Us

We believe that creating respectful organizations builds safe communities.

Where we come from

Our story

SAFE Institute is the professional services division of SAFE, a nationally recognized Central Texas nonprofit that has been working to stop abuse and build healthy environments for over 45 years.

We created the SAFE Institute to scale our mission and deploy our expertise into companies, institutions, and communities. In addition to inspiring safe cultures, we are determined to create a sustainable funding source to expand our direct services to survivors.

This is why our proceeds go directly to support victims of sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking. From emergency shelters to our counseling and legal services - your investments help build a safer community in Austin, TX and beyond.

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who we are

Meet our team

Our team comes from programs throughout SAFE and reflects a wide range of professional experience. We are united by our passion for creating change in workplace behavior and are committed to helping organizations build cultures that inspire innovation, respect, and inclusivity.

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Jerson Arauz

Director

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Ileana Aguilar

Trainer

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Vincent Tovar

Trainer

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Alexander Strain

Trainer

Heidi Lersch, Trainer

Heidi Lersch

Trainer

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Learn more about SAFE

If you’re interested in donating or learning more about the work that SAFE is doing in the Austin, Texas community and beyond, please visit safeaustin.org. 

See our community impact