Our History: A Commitment to Service and Support

Since its inception, CAASA has been a driving force in providing vital services to victims of sexual and domestic violence in northwest Iowa. Our growth reflects not only the increasing need for support but also our dedication to improving lives in rural communities.

Key Milestones in CAASA's History

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1985: Establishment of CAASA

Volunteer Staffing & Crisis Line:
CAASA was founded to provide crucial services to survivors of sexual and domestic violence in rural northwest Iowa. Initially, we operated with a volunteer-staffed crisis line and volunteer-run safe homes, offering immediate assistance to victims during their most vulnerable moments.

 

1986: Staff Positions Established

Professional Support:
As the need for services grew, CAASA expanded its operations by creating paid staff positions. This allowed us to offer more comprehensive, consistent support for survivors across the region.

 

1988: Shelter Services Introduced

Safe Spaces for Survivors:
CAASA established its first shelter services, providing a safe, supportive environment where victims could escape violence and begin their journey to healing.

 

1998: Shelters Established & Funded

Expanded Reach:
With the support of dedicated donors and community members, CAASA was able to open and fully fund four shelters across northwest Iowa. These shelters became essential lifelines, offering emergency housing and resources for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

 

2000: Expanding Coverage to New Counties

Serving More Communities:
CAASA began covering additional counties, including Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, and Palo Alto. This expansion allowed CAASA to assist a broader range of survivors across northwest Iowa, ensuring that more individuals had access to critical services.

 

2006: Merger with CADA

Broadening Our Impact:
In 2006, CAASA became the lead agency in a merger with CADA (Community Against Domestic Abuse), resulting in the consolidation of resources and efforts. This merger allowed CAASA to extend its services to cover eight counties: Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Ida, Palo Alto, and Sac, making it a more comprehensive force in addressing sexual and domestic violence.

 

2008: Prevention Education Coordinator Added

Proactive Prevention:
Understanding that prevention is key, CAASA hired a part-time Prevention Education Coordinator. This role focused on raising awareness and delivering educational programs to help prevent sexual and domestic violence before it happens.

 

2013: State Regionalization - Region 1

Expanded Service Area:
The state of Iowa implemented regionalization, splitting the state into six regions for service delivery. As a result, CAASA expanded its coverage to include all 19 counties in Region 1 of northwest Iowa, establishing itself as the primary agency for sexual assault services in the region, alongside FCC and SafePlace.

Counties Covered: Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Ida, Palo Alto, Sac, and others in northwest Iowa.

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Today: Serving All 19 Counties of Northwest Iowa

Broadening Our Reach:
CAASA now proudly serves all 19 counties of northwest Iowa for sexual assault services. As the primary sexual assault agency in Region 1, we provide critical services ranging from crisis intervention and emergency housing to long-term advocacy, prevention education, and community outreach. We remain committed to ensuring that every survivor in northwest Iowa has access to the support they need.

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