By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
A local nonprofit is stepping up to support young women who age out of the foster care system, providing a safe home, emotional guidance, and the skills needed to build independent, stable lives.
Her Haven — founded by Ozark resident Cierra McLendon Berry — grew out of her firsthand experience caring for relatives and witnessing the struggles faced by young people without steady support. Berry said the idea took shape as she realized how transformative a supportive home can be for a young woman trying to find her footing.
“I’ve seen the difference that love, structure, and encouragement can make,” Berry said. “Her Haven was created to be a place where young women can rebuild and rediscover themselves.”
What began as a personal calling has expanded into a full program focused on stability and growth. Today, Her Haven serves as a refuge for young women preparing to enter adulthood, offering both housing and long-term support.
A Foundation for Healing and Growth
Her Haven is in the process of developing a residential program that will provide transitional housing in fully furnished units, giving residents a safe and stable place to live as they work toward independence. Until they secure that housing, Her Haven works to advocate for these young women so they can get into affordable housing options. The nonprofit also pairs each young woman with case managers who help establish personal goals involving education, employment, and life planning.
The program’s services include:
Case Management and Goal Planning to help residents map out their next steps.
Access to Mental Health Professionals who offer both individual and group counseling.
Financial and Life Skills Training such as budgeting, cooking, and credit-building.
Educational and Career Support including GED preparation, college or trade school guidance, and job-readiness coaching.
Mentorship Circles where trusted adults provide encouragement and accountability.
Community and Wellness Activities like group outings, journaling, and time in Her Haven’s Therapeutic Garden — a quiet, restorative space for reflection and healing.
Berry said the goal is to create an environment where young women feel supported in every aspect of their transition. “We want them to feel safe enough to grow,” she said. “It’s not just about housing — it’s about helping them find confidence and direction.”
Her Haven also offers support to young women who are not part of the residential program but still need guidance as they navigate adulthood. This outreach includes one-on-one mentoring, education assistance, job preparation, financial coaching, and referrals for mental health services.
The organization also hosts workshops covering communication, self-care, leadership, time management, and building healthy relationships.
“We want them to know there’s a community rooting for them,” Berry said. “Whether they live in our facility or out in the community, our goal is to walk beside them.”
Her Haven’s work is grounded in the belief that every young woman deserves a chance to thrive. Berry describes the nonprofit not only as a transitional program but also as a source of hope for those stepping into an uncertain stage of life.
“At Her Haven, we work to create a place where they can rest, rebuild, and rise,” she said. “We don’t just offer resources — we offer belief in their future.”
As the nonprofit continues to grow, Berry said she hopes more community members will learn about its mission and join in supporting the young women it serves.
If you would like to support Her Haven with a tax-deductible donation, visit their website at www.herhavens.info or by email at [email protected]. You may also reach them by phone at (334) 458-9264
