WHEREAS, the Refuge House of Tallahassee is an important community resource, providing temporary shelter for women and children at risk of domestic violence, and providing community education and guidance on domestic violence prevention; and

WHEREAS, as Executive Director, Kelly Otte oversaw the opening of a new shelter facility in Leon County, with a capacity to house up to 50 women and children, creating a nurturing space for peace and healing; and

WHEREAS, Under Kelly Otte’s direction, Refuge House expanded it’s services to include transitional housing assistance for women and children in crisis situations; and

WHEREAS, Kelly Otte leaves the Refuge House after serving as it’s Executive Director for the past nine years of creative and distinguished service.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LEON COUNTY, FLORIDA, that TUESDAY, March 22, 2005 is hereby declared to be

in Leon County, Florida. The Board recognizes the contributions of Kelly Otte to the well-being of our community, and her service to it’s citizens. We recognize also the personal courage, sacrifice and idealism which she brought to the task, and commend her innovative leadership of this important community institution. After long years of ensuring that families in crisis have a "safe place" to turn to in times of trouble, we wish her further success and achievement in the service of humanity, and hope that she will forever and always think of Leon County, Florida as her "safe place".

DATED THIS 22^nd DAY OF MARCH, A.D. 2005