Our Mission
YMCA Safe Place Services is guided by the mission of the YMCA of Greater Louisville:
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
This mission comes to life in every call answered, every youth sheltered, and every family supported. Whether it’s helping a teen find stable housing, guiding a young adult through a job application, or facilitating healing conversations between caregivers and their children—we create space for transformation through compassion, safety, and purpose.
At Safe Place, we accept, affirm, and advocate for youth by helping them discover their potential and walk toward a brighter, more stable future.
Core Values
These four values guide every interaction, decision, and service we offer at YMCA Safe Place Services.
Caring
Show a sincere concern for others.
Honesty
Be truthful in what you say and do.
Respect
Treat each other as we’d all like to be treated.
Responsibility
Be accountable for your promises and actions.
Guiding Principles
These five principles shape the way our staff, volunteers, and partners show up every day—as mentors, advocates, and role models for youth in crisis:
Welcoming
Open to all, creating spaces to be, belong, and become.
Genuine
Valuing authenticity and connection.
Nurturing
Supporting each person’s journey.
Hopeful
Believing in everyone's potential to inspire a brighter tomorrow.
Determined
Working relentlessly to strengthen communities.
Our History
In 1974, the YMCA of Greater Louisville partnered with the National Council of Jewish Women and the Junior League of Louisville to open Shelter House—one of the first youth shelters in the country.
Since then, Shelter House has provided thousands of teens with safety, structure, and the belief that they can choose a better path. It remains the only youth shelter in Louisville that accepts self-referrals and provides services at no cost.
What We Do
Whether it’s a youth experiencing homelessness or a family struggling to reconnect, we’re here—24 hours a day, every day—with the programs, professionals, and heart to help.
We work with all family types: grandparents raising grandchildren, adoptive families, LGBTQ parents, and more. Our staff is trained to respond with compassion and respect for each unique journey.
Our services help youth:
- Build character, leadership, and life skills
- Access GED prep, employment training, resume support, and financial literacy
- Connect with positive adult role models
- Rebuild relationships with family through counseling and support
If you’re experiencing a crisis at home—anger, addiction, abuse, or anything in between—we are here, right now, and ready to help.
Find Safe Place—Anywhere
With nearly 300 Safe Place sites across Louisville, Oldham, and Bullitt Counties—including every TARC bus and YMCA location—youth can find safety and support when they need it most.
You’ll know us by our signs—but it’s what’s behind them that counts.
From the moment a young person walks through our doors at 2400 Crittenden Drive, they’re met with dignity, care, and the unwavering belief that they matter.
We Bring Families Back Together
Adolescence is hard. So is parenting. At Safe Place, we help bridge the gap between teens and caregivers with resources, guidance, and empathy. We walk alongside families as they rediscover trust, respect, and shared strength.
If communication has broken down, if conflict feels unmanageable, if you just don’t know what to do next—we’re here to help you begin again.
Related Pages
Youth & Young Adult Services
From shelter and drop-in programs to mentoring and outreach, see how we support youth at every stage of their journey.
Volunteer
Give your time, talent, and presence to help teens move forward.
Donate
Your gift provides shelter, food, safety, and support when it’s needed most.