Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How was Austin’s House built?
A: The project began as a collaborative effort between many agencies in Douglas County that recognized the need for a shelter to care for abused and neglected children. The Austin Kirby Foundation played a pivotal role in obtaining the necessary funding, labor and materials to construct our beautiful, 5,000 square foot facility in North Douglas County.

Q: Why is the facility named ‘Austin’s House’?
A: Austin’s House is named as a memorial to Austin Kirby, a wonderful local boy who died when he was 15. Although Austin had a large, loving family he struggled with medical and social issues throughout his life. The Austin Kirby Foundation was formed following his death, and was a major factor in the successful start-up of Austin’s House. We are grateful to the Austin Kirby Foundation and Austin’s family for their continued support—and we try to honor Austin’s memory with the work that we do every day.

Q: How are children placed at Austin’s House?
A: Children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect are placed at Austin’s House by the state and tribal social service agencies with whom we have contracts.

Q: Are the children at Austin’s House placed through the Juvenile Justice system?
A: No, the children at Austin’s House are placed here because they cannot live in their own homes due to abuse or neglect.

Q: How is Austin’s House funded?
A: We receive fees for service for children in residence, but these fees do not fully cover our expenses. Depending on occupancy, we must raise 20-40% of our operating costs through private donations.

Q: Does Austin’s House use volunteers to work with the children?
A: Generally, Austin’s House does not use volunteers to work directly with the children, but does use volunteers in many other ways. Please see our ‘How to Help’ page.