Living Local with Lauren Wilkie

Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate | Episode 23 SummarySpecial Guest: Lauren Wilkie, CEO of Safelight (Hendersonville, NC)In Episode 23 of Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate, Ed sits down with Lauren Wilkie, CEO of Safelight, a long-standing Hendersonville nonprofit providing life-changing support for people impacted by violence, abuse, and exploitation. Lauren shares how Safelight has grown over its 42-year history, including multiple mergers that expanded the organization into a full continuum of services for survivors across Western North Carolina.Lauren explains that Safelight’s work most often begins with domestic and family violence, followed by child abuse, sexual assault, elder abuse, and human trafficking. These are heavy topics, but the mission is clear: Safelight focuses on both prevention through education and direct support that helps people find safety, regain stability, and rebuild their lives.One of the biggest takeaways from the episode is how wide Safelight’s reach really is. Lauren shares that the organization has helped tens of thousands of people over the years, and served 1,312 clients last year alone, with most clients coming from Henderson County, while others travel in from surrounding areas seeking safety. Safelight also removes a major barrier that keeps many survivors trapped: they are one of the few shelters that allows pets on site, partnering with Blue Ridge Humane Society to provide an indoor kennel with space for dogs and cats. That means people don’t have to choose between leaving an unsafe situation and leaving a beloved pet behind.Lauren emphasizes that if someone needs help, the first step is simple: call Safelight’s 24/7 hotline. You don’t have to know which program fits, just reach out and they’ll guide you from there.24/7 Hotline: 828-693-3840Website: safelightfamily.orgThe episode also spotlights Safelight’s community-facing efforts, including their job training and empowerment programs. Ed and Lauren talk about Dandelion Cafe, Safelight’s downtown Hendersonville café known for its shrimp and grits, where individuals rebuild job skills and confidence through structured work experience during school hours. Safelight also operates a resale store (open Tuesday through Saturday) that accepts donations and helps stock clothing and household essentials for people arriving in crisis and those transitioning into new homes. Lauren mentions that Safelight keeps an updated wishlist on their website, often including high-need items like cleaning supplies, especially during cold and flu season.To wrap things up, Lauren shares local favorites for visitors, including Flat Rock Playhouse, DuPont State Forest for easy-access waterfalls, and popular restaurants like Shine and Hearth and Heron. She also gives a shout-out to Mini Batch Bakery for seasonal treats. The episode ends on a lighter note with the show’s “Finish the Lyric” game, where Lauren holds her own with classic rock favorites.If you’re looking for ways to support a trusted nonprofit in Hendersonville, Safelight offers multiple options: volunteering, donating goods, shopping the resale store, visiting Dandelion Cafe, attending events, or simply sharing resources with someone who may need help. For immediate support or to learn more, visit safelightfamily.org or call 828-693-3840.