About Us

Northwest Kansas Family Shelter (later known as Northwest Kansas Domestic & Sexual violence Services, Inc.) began operations as a grass-roots organization in the late 1970’s to provide victim services for women and children who were working to escape domestic violence situations. Within a few years of existence the agency added a shelter home to its list of services.

As the number of victims accessing services increased, the agency realized the need to expand. In August 1983, the board of directors incorporated the agency to serve all 18 counties of NW Kansas. Staff was increased in order to provide service delivery of both domestic violence and sexual assault issues. The agency now has 3 offices; the main office is located in Hays with outreach offices in Colby and Phillipsburg.

The agency has grown from a staff of 3 to 15 positions, while continuing to provide services to all victims regardless of age, color, culture/ethnicity, origin, physical limitation, race, religion, sex, sexual preference/orientation, or any other legally protected consideration.

In the spring of 2011, in an effort to better reflect the agency’s work, Northwest Kansas Family Shelter changed its name to Options: Domestic & Sexual Violence Service, Inc.