By KATIE MCDOWELL/Managing Editor

SafeHouse of Shelby County has named Erin Bodden its new executive director.

Bodden, who began work Sept. 23, said she was honored to join SafeHouse, a full-service domestic violence and sexual assault center that provides emergency shelter and support services to victims.

“I’m very excited to work with our dedicated staff and volunteers,” she said. “There’s a great group of individuals who support this agency.

Bodden said she was still settling into her role, but hopes to increase awareness of SafeHouse in the community, in addition to generating support through volunteers and fundraising efforts.

Prior to joining SafeHouse, Bodden served as the director of development for Girls Incorporated of Central Alabama, which is part of a national organization that teaches life skills and promotes healthy life choices for girls.

“I came from an organization that was focused on women’s issues,” Bodden said. “I think (SafeHouse) was a very natural fit for me.”

Bodden received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mississippi State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

For more information, visit Safehouse.org.