Safe To Transform

At The Heights, we often talk about the journey of healing but sometimes, the most important part of that journey is the one we don’t see.

When we think of butterflies, we picture their beauty, grace, and freedom. But before a butterfly ever spreads its wings, it must first retreat into the safety of a cocoon. Inside that quiet shelter, deep and difficult transformation happens. The old self is broken down, and strength is formed in the hidden work of becoming something new. The cocoon offers protection from the outside world while that transformation takes place.

In much the same way, survivors of domestic abuse need a place of safety and protection while they begin the hard work of rebuilding their lives. Shelter is not a place of shame — it is a place of hope, healing, and new beginnings. Just as the butterfly cannot emerge without first seeking refuge, survivors need space and time to heal before they can fly free.

At The Heights, we are working diligently to make this kind of safety a reality in Ellis County. Our future emergency shelter will be a place where survivors can find protection, peace, and the support they need to begin their transformation.

Thank you for standing with us in this mission. Together, we are building a community where survivors are safe to heal, transform, and thrive.

Jennifer Salzman, Executive Director

Advancement Director Update

Each day is an adventure at The Heights and in Ellis County! It is a pleasure to connect with our “WE” and build lasting relationships with all of our donors and partners. We’re working diligently to build connections, apply for funding, and expand our reach to better serve those in need. Right now we are specifically focused on raising operations funding for our emergency shelter. If you’re interested in being part of this movement, let’s connect! I’d love to take you on a tour of The Heights and show you the ins and outs of what we get to do on a daily basis!

Save the Date!

Mark your calendars for our annual Power of WE Luncheon on October 15, 2025, at the Waxahachie Civic Center. This inspiring event highlights the incredible work being done at The Heights and how, together, we can empower survivors. Stay tuned for sponsorship opportunities and ticket information coming soon!

📩 Contact me today to learn how you can Join the WE and be a part of something truly transformative. jordan@theheightselliscounty.org or 469-337-5262.

Jordan Molina, Advancement Director

Service Director Overview

As we close out the first quarter of the year, I find myself reflecting on the incredible growth, change, and momentum we've experienced as a service team.

This quarter has brought noticeable energy shifts, some challenging, some inspiring, and our team continues to rise with grace and grit. We are seeing change with a new District Attorney now serving our community, growing partnerships with our local police departments, and community resources. Every day, they’re leaning in more and more to walk alongside us in support of our clients, and that’s something worth celebrating.

Meanwhile, our staff continues to pursue education and certifications that elevate our standard of care. The commitment I see from every service provider at The Heights is nothing short of remarkable. Their professionalism, heart, and drive to serve with excellence is felt in every client interaction, and the results speak for themselves.

As our organization grows, so do our numbers, and with that comes fuller schedules and shifting responsibilities. But what a joy it is to see not only the increase in clients, but also the evolution of their cases. We’re now witnessing more clients reach the stages of healing, stability, and empowerment, and that is the ultimate measure of impact.

I know I speak for all of us when I say it is an absolute honor to stand in the rain with our clients, and an even greater privilege to feel the warmth of the sun as the clouds in their lives begin to lift.

Here's to continuing the work, growing in our mission, and walking every step with purpose.

Emma Sapp, Service Director

Partnership Spotlight: Lindy Beaty, Ellis County District Attorney

At The Heights Ellis County, we are passionate about building strong partnerships with agencies and individuals who share our commitment to serving survivors of domestic abuse. This quarter, we are honored to spotlight a community partner who is already making a powerful impact in her short time in office, District Attorney Lindy Beaty.

Lindy Beaty began her term as Ellis County District Attorney on January 1st, and in just a few months, her leadership has ushered in a new era of victim-centered justice for our county. As a service provider in this field, one of the most impactful changes we’ve witnessed is her decision to expand the Victim Assistance Coordinator team, from just one coordinator under the previous administration to four dedicated professionals today.

This expansion is more than a staffing change; it’s a clear statement of values. These coordinators have already proven to be active, collaborative, and deeply committed to working with community resources. Their energy, professionalism, and desire to learn have brought a fresh wave of hope to survivors navigating the legal system.

We’ve seen firsthand how this new structure is positively transforming our clients’ experiences with the District Attorney’s office. Survivors are receiving more timely updates, increased emotional support, and a greater sense that their voices are being heard and protected.

In a system that can often feel overwhelming for victims, these changes have sparked a noticeable shift toward accountability, healing, and hope. Holding perpetrators accountable is a critical first step in building a safer community, and we are deeply encouraged by the direction our county is heading under DA Beaty’s leadership.

We are excited to continue working alongside her office and look forward to the progress ahead. Thank you, District Attorney Beaty, for your commitment to justice and for championing the needs of survivors in Ellis County.

Volunteer Spotlight: Tony Chaney

This quarter, we are thrilled to recognize one of our most dedicated and compassionate volunteers, Tony, founder of Molly Rides.

Tony is the owner and operator of Molly Rides, a local taxi service known throughout the community for dependable airport trips, long-distance rides, and everything in between. While his business keeps him busy, what truly sets Tony apart is his voluntary commitment to serving survivors in crisis through The Heights.

Tony approached us not for recognition or reward, but out of a deep desire to serve. He has completely embedded himself in trauma-informed care, showing a profound understanding of the sensitivity and dignity required when transporting individuals in crisis. His support is not limited by hours or contracts, he simply shows up, ready to help however he can.

What continues to amaze us is Tony’s intuition and attentiveness. He often recognizes and fills a client’s need before we even know it exists. Whether it’s a thoughtful gesture during a ride or going the extra mile, literally and figuratively, Tony consistently shows up with compassion, reliability, and care.

His partnership is not just a resource, it’s a lifeline for many of our clients. He has redefined what community collaboration looks like, offering not only transportation, but a moment of peace, dignity, and safety for those walking through incredibly difficult times.

Tony, thank you for choosing to serve alongside us. Your selflessness and commitment embody everything we hope to build at The Heights, community, compassion, and hope.