A Brief History.

Truly a grassroots organization, WCST was formed by a group of Rogue Community College women in 1977. Known then as the Women’s Coalition of Josephine County, the organization operated entirely as a volunteer program providing a hotline for rape survivors. In 1980 the organization changed its name, expanded its scope, and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to the struggle against both domestic violence and sexual assault. Esther Jackson came on board in 1981 as a Vista volunteer. Later, she became the agency’s longtime executive director.

In 1998, with strong community support, WCST opened a safe shelter in Grants Pass. The Talsunne House is a 12-bed shelter, the only one in Josephine County. When it is at capacity, WCST pays for survivors to stay in motels. WCST has a history of never turning away those in need.
Describing the exhaustive services that this caring organization provides would fill a book, and sheltering survivors is just a part of the story; Intervention, prevention, and advocacy are also strong components of the agency’s services. Every weekday, WCST advocates are at the courthouse helping survivors with restraining orders and other legal issues. Survivors also receive help with transportation, housing, basic necessities, medical and social services, counseling, support groups, and all issues related to healing from domestic violence and sexual assault.

Prevention is another aspect of WCST’s mission, and a community educator offers presentations, mostly to youth and educators, with emphasis on preventing physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.

WCST has evolved into one of the community’s most active, recognized, and respected non-profit organizations. It is currently reaching out to men for moral and financial support with its 100 Men campaign, and is engaged in numerous efforts to gain broader community backing for its invaluable programs and services. One thing will never change; WCST’s commitment to helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and to mitigating the physical, emotional and societal damage caused by violence in the home.

Today our committed staff has more than 75 years of combined experience with extensive and up to date training. WCST continues to grow as a vital and proactive agency within our community, working to assist and empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.