St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners Support Betty Griffin Center

• 5 March 2025
• Category: SJC News District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5
• Tags: 2025

The entire St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners attended the Second Annual Betty Griffin Center Breakfast on March 3 to demonstrate their support for the programs and services provided by the local non-profit. Approximately two and a half years ago, the Board of Directors committed to hosting an event alongside the efforts of the Betty Griffin Center team. The goals were to provide another way to educate the public about domestic and sexual violence and the needs of survivors, as well as to create a fundraising opportunity.

Founded in 1990, the Betty Griffin Center operates a 54-bed emergency shelter, six transitional apartments, and a 24-hour hotline. Recently, the organization opened its second Rape Care Center at Ascension St. Vincent’s Hospital, located at 205 Trinity Way in St. Johns, Florida, alongside the existing center at Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine. Both locations offer immediate medical and forensic care for rape victims, ensuring privacy and professional support.

The organization provides outreach services, training, and education throughout St. Johns County, Florida. Program staff are trained and certified in domestic and sexual abuse. All staff members also have additional specific credentials based on their job functions.

This year, the keynote speaker was Amanda Price, CEO of the Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence. Founded in 2020, the Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence is taking a new approach to serving as the state-level resource center for domestic violence—one that is grassroots, holistic, inclusive, and transparent. Member organizations of the FPEDV, like the Betty Griffin Center, are the experts on domestic violence and delivering services efficiently and effectively. The FPEDV team provides essential support to members through training, technical assistance, advocacy, and education based on experience serving Florida communities for more than 40 years and drawing on national networks and resources.

Other speakers included Kelly Franklin, CEO of the Betty Griffin Center; two new Ambassadors of Freedom, Keith Campbell of Campbell Plumbing and Mechanics; and Brad Nelson, CEO of the Horschel Family Foundation. Additionally, two survivors will share their stories.

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