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Featured Organization
The House of Ruth
Domestic violence is a terrifying and all-too-close reality for thousands of women and children in our state. One in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime; on average, more than three women in the U.S. are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends every day. Keeping this in mind, the House of Ruth has emerged as a domestic violence shelter with hopes that "one day, every woman in Maryland will be safe in her own home."
Focusing on three issues surrounding domestic violence--prevention, intervention and advocacy--the House of Ruth offers emergency housing and meals, child care, legal and housing counseling, job training, and a holistic wellness program that includes both counseling and health care. They also operate a crisis hotline 24 hours a day: 410.889.RUTH.
Founded in 1977, the organization has grown and now offers 84 beds in their shelter, 6 transitional apartments, and a health clinic staffed by Johns Hopkins University nursing students on site. Today’s staff consists of about 90 individuals and 30 volunteer board members. They assist up to 500 women (plus their children) each year. The House of Ruth has garnered a strong reputation across the nation for their comprehensive approach to domestic violence.
Complementing the House of Ruth’s services to women and children who have suffered from abuse, the nonprofit has also operated an Abuser’s Intervention Program since 1982. Over 600 men are court-ordered to attend the 22-week program every year. Each of the House of Ruth’s programs are designed to confront the attitudes, behaviors and systems that perpetuate domestic violence.
Goucher students interested in working at the House of Ruth can serve as volunteers or interns throughout the year. All volunteers attend a two-hour training session before their service. For more information, see the organization’s website or email their employment coordinator at jobs@hruthmd.org. The House of Ruth posts full-time and Americorps job opportunities online as well.
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