From Crisis to Courage.
From Hurt
to Healing.
OUR MISSION
H.O.P.E
We understand that every journey is personal, every story is sacred, and every act of survival is an act of courage. Our role is to stand in the gap — to listen, to guide, and to provide a safe place where healing can begin and hope can rise again.
Our mission is built on healing, safety, and hope.
Through our H.O.P.E. framework — Healing, Oasis, Protection, and Empowerment through Education — we meet survivors with compassion and walk with them into wholeness.
Whether it's a listening ear, a practical resource, or a future home, Annie’s Safe Haven exists to restore what’s been broken and remind every individual that their life still has purpose, power, and promise.
WHO ARE WE?
Annie's Safe Haven Inc. is a non-profit corporation answering the global crisis, servicing those impacted by domestic violence, offering immediate care, educational support, and long-term healing services.
We walk with survivors from crisis to recovery through H.O.P.E.—Healing, Oasis, Protection, and Empowerment.
-
Community Outreach, Education, and Awareness
-
Counseling and Support Services
-
Donations and Financial Resources
-
Local, State, Federal Partnerships
-
Aid and promote positive outcomes for individuals and families.
WHAT WE DO
Executive Staff
Sherri Downs - President
Passionate about faith, leadership, and empowerment, Sherri Downs inspires others through ministry, mentorship, and service.
She is married to Sylvester Downs III and is the proud mother of Malachi and Maddisyn. A lifelong educator, Sherri has spent 24 years serving children and families as an early childhood educator and administrator. Her heart for teaching led her to support the community in various roles—mentor, coach, author, youth leader, church administrator, co-pastor, and more.
Sherri’s entrepreneurial journey began at age 12, launching businesses from babysitting to snow removal and hair braiding. She is the CEO and Founder of Touch Downs Enterprise LLC, a certified coaching and consulting firm; the Founder of Annie’s Safe Haven (A.S.H.) Inc., a certified domestic violence advocacy agency; and the founder of Sherri Downs Ministries. For over 26 years, she has empowered women through teaching, leadership, and spiritual guidance. She also hosts Women of Weight, a 3-day empowerment gathering, and is the author of seven published works, as well as a speaker and content creator.
Yiasa Bedford Whitney - Co-President
Yiasa Whitney is a woman of unwavering faith, compassion, and purpose, dedicated to walking with others on their journey to healing and wholeness. With over 27 years of marriage, she understands resilience, restoration, and the value of healthy relationships. As a wife and mother of two adult children, her life is rooted in love, faith, and family. For more than 15 years, she led a thriving beauty business, creating spaces where women felt seen, valued, and empowered. Her entrepreneurial journey reflects her desire to uplift others and foster inner and outer transformation. A licensed minister with a graduate degree from Life Christian University (LCU), Yaisa’s calling is grounded in prayer, biblical truth, and a prophetic voice that brings hope and clarity—especially to those healing from trauma and brokenness.
She is the visionary and host of The Refill Conference, a faith-based gathering offering healing, refreshment, and spiritual empowerment to women in life’s hardest seasons. With certifications in coaching, mentorship, and business development, Yiasa brings a holistic approach to healing spirit, soul, and body—helping others reclaim their voice, rediscover their strength, and walk boldly into their God-given future. Whether ministering or mentoring, she leads with authenticity, wisdom, and a servant’s heart.
UPCOMING EVENTS
