HLFCC was established as a 501(c)(3) in August 1982. A group of community leaders and service providers noticed an increase in requests for assistance from domestic violence and sexual assault survivors establishing the need for the creation of a nonprofit to address. In April 1983, a three bedroom home donated by the Crocket family and start-up operating capital provided by Norman and Dorothy Hurd established the first domestic violence emergency shelter and support services facility in the community of Marble Falls, Texas.

The Highland Lakes Family Crisis Center

Highland Lakes Family Crisis Center was originally known as the Community Crisis Center, but the name was later changed to reflect the emphasis on families in crisis as well as, the geographic area of the Highland Lakes. The Board of Directors further defined the Center’s service region which encompassed all cities, towns and communities located within the boundaries of Burnet, Blanco, Llano and Lampasas counties.

In 1986 the agency established a larger confidential shelter facility and nonresidential offices to meet the demands and needs of an ever-growing community. Services and safety were enhanced with the purchase of the Christian Community Church building in the Marble Falls region. HLFCC also began operating a small thrift store to meet the needs of survivors served, the community at large and to build revenue to expand program services.

Approximately 10 years later, it was apparent that a still larger facility would be needed in response to increase demand for services within the four county service region. A capital campaign was conducted and a 9700 square foot facility was built in 2000 and remains the current confidential emergency shelter and nonresidential services site utilized by the agency. This facility offers 37 beds in eight bedrooms, each with a personal bathroom. The old shelter building was remodeled and now houses the Good Neighbor Thrift Shop. Proceeds from this thrift shop are used directly to assist families served by the Center. Outreach services also continue to be offered at donated outreach offices located in the municipalities of Johnson City, Blanco, Llano, Burnet, Lampasas, Kingsland and Marble Falls.

Further enhancement of nonresidential services includes:

• 2000 Healthy Relationship Curriculum Program in area Middle and High Schools
• 2002 Establishment of the regional Sexual Assault Response Team Protocol
• 2006 Expansion of Bilingual Services
• 2008 Overall Increased/Enhances Outreach Services
• 2013 Expansion of the Healthy Relationship Curriculum Program and Primary Prevention School Strategies
• 2016 Expansion of Legal Advocacy Program Services

Since becoming an incorporated nonprofit in 1982, HLFCC has evolved into a community leader in the Texas Hill Country. The Center has years of service offering victims of domestic and sexual violence safety, shelter, and advocacy has only been possible by the enduring commitment of the Center’s clients, staff members, volunteers, donors, and community partners.