This month’s Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce Non-Profit recognition goes to Blackburn Center!
For nearly five decades, Blackburn Center has been a steadfast source of hope, safety, and support for individuals and families throughout Westmoreland County. In December 2026, Blackburn Center proudly celebrates 50 years of service, marking a remarkable milestone that began with the organization’s first hotline call on December 6, 1976. What began as a collective effort by a task force of the National Organization for Women to address rape and sexual assault issues in Westmoreland County has grown into a comprehensive organization dedicated to supporting survivors and victims of domestic and sexual violence, as well as other forms of violence and crime. For almost 50 years, Blackburn Center has stood beside those in need while working toward a future where every individual can live free from violence. This anniversary is not only an opportunity to celebrate the organization’s history, but also to recognize the countless survivors/victims, advocates, volunteers, donors, staff members, and community partners who have helped make that history possible.
Today, Blackburn Center provides a wide range of free and confidential client services to individuals throughout Westmoreland County whose lives have been affected by violence or crime. Services include a 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling and therapy, support groups, emergency shelter for survivors/victims of intimate partner violence and their dependent children, medical advocacy, legal-system advocacy, and civil legal representation related to victimization. Blackburn Center also provides safety planning and resources for individuals and families navigating the effects of violence. Beyond direct services, their organization works in the community through awareness and education, professional training, school programs, outreach initiatives, and other prevention efforts designed to address the root causes of violence and create lasting social change.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, providing an opportunity for our community to learn, speak out, and remind survivors/victims of domestic violence that they are not alone. Domestic violence can affect individuals of every background. Recognizing the signs of abuse and knowing where to turn for help can make an important difference. Blackburn Center’s services are especially vital for survivors/victims, offering access to information and referrals, crisis counseling, safety planning, emergency shelter, support groups, medical and legal advocacy, civil legal representation, and other resources at no cost. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is also a reminder that ending violence requires more than responding after abuse occurs; it requires prevention education, challenging harmful attitudes and behaviors, and building a community where everyone can live safely and free from fear.
As Blackburn Center celebrates 50 years of service, the organization is also looking ahead with excitement to announce an opportunity to relocate the office. The new space is an opportunity to create an environment that supports the organization’s continued growth, strengthens the experience of those seeking services, and provides staff and volunteers with the space they need to continue this important work. After 50 years of responding to the needs of the community, Blackburn Center is excited to embrace this next chapter while remaining firmly grounded in the mission and values that have guided the organization for generations. Stay tuned for more information to help celebrate with Blackburn Center!
How can I help? The community has an important role to play in helping Blackburn Center continue its mission in Westmoreland County. Donations, volunteering, and advocacy efforts can all make a meaningful difference. Financial contributions help sustain essential supportive services such as the hotline, shelter, counseling, therapy, legal and medical advocacy, and civil legal representation. Volunteers provide valuable support to their organization and its outreach efforts. Community members can also advocate for policies that promote safety, accountability, and resources for survivors/victims by engaging with local and state representatives and making their voices heard.
Blackburn Center – Thank you for the continued work you do each day to help provide support for many people in our local communities. Our chamber is proud to recognize Blackburn Center as the October 2026 Chamber Non-Profit of the Month!
