AUSTIN, Texas — SafeHorns, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving safety on and around the University of Texas-Austin campus, is seeking community support to prevent the closure of its West Campus facility. The organization’s space, known as “SafeHorns Place,” is situated in the basement of the Congregational Church on West 23rd Street and has become a vital resource for many UT students.
Since its establishment nearly two years ago, SafeHorns Place has hosted numerous educational events, self-defense workshops, and community-building activities. The space is described by organizers as a sanctuary for students facing the challenges of university life.
Joell McNew, president of SafeHorns, emphasized the importance of this location, stating, “It gives them a space to be, and it’s central. It’s in the heart of the community. It’s made such a positive impact. We hate to leave the space.”
The organization was founded in the aftermath of the tragic death of UT student Haruka Weiser in 2016. Weiser was killed while walking home from campus, which prompted community members and parents to unite and establish SafeHorns to enhance student safety and revitalize the surrounding area. McNew noted, “So many amazing people came together, our parents, community members to support us, to take over the rent here, to clean it up, to activate it as a student community space. It has made a tremendous positive impact.”
Currently, SafeHorns operates solely on donations, but with funding dwindling, the organization has set a goal of raising $75,000 to keep its doors open through the end of the year. McNew highlighted that ongoing community support is crucial for the organization to continue its mission effectively. “It helps us to continue our mission in a bigger way if we can stay in this space. And the only way we can do that is with donations,” she said.
The call for support comes at a time when the need for safe spaces for students is more critical than ever. SafeHorns Place has not only served as a refuge but has also fostered a sense of community among students, helping them navigate the complexities of university life.
As the fundraising campaign begins, SafeHorns is reaching out to students, alumni, and local residents to contribute what they can. The organization hopes to maintain its presence in the West Campus area, ensuring that it can continue to provide essential resources and support for the student population at the University of Texas-Austin.
