We are an organization founded by Heidi Markow in memory of Heidi’s sister, Robin D. Shaffer (pictured above). On June 15, 2005, Robin lost her life at the hands of her abusive husband. On that day, Heidi made her a promise. Today, Heidi’s conviction is stronger than ever. Robin’s memory will live on through the great work of the Beginning Over Foundation.

At the Beginning Over Foundation, we pledge our time, energy and voices to protect victims of domestic abuse.

Our goal is to help shelter and protect families in crisis and support long term solutions to help them rebuild and sustain healthy lives and to raise awareness about intimate partner violence through education programs.

Rebuilding lives is an important and often daunting task. It takes dedication, commitment, experience, and outstanding support and time. Without intervention and education programs, victims of domestic violence find it extremely difficult to break the cycle of coercion and abuse that have become the normal in their lives.

Beginning Over Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to ending domestic abuse.