Liza’s Lifeline, a South Carolina-based nonprofit, is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities affected by domestic violence through education, advocacy and direct support. The organization was founded in memory of Liza Warner, who was tragically killed by her husband. In the wake of her death, Liza’s parents, Doug and Shirley Warner, transformed their grief into action by launching the nonprofit.
Susie Ash, president of Liza’s Lifeline, has spent her career on the front lines of domestic violence prevention. In an interview, Ash reflected on the path that led her to this work.
“When I was 24 years old working in group homes, I saw a pattern of domestic violence,” she said.
Liza
Motivated by those early experiences, Ash pursued a master’s degree in public administration at the University of Colorado, focusing her studies on domestic violence and policy.
Today, Liza’s Lifeline stands out for its immediate response to those in need.
“Just two months ago, we helped a woman who was eight weeks pregnant and needed to get out of town before her abuser got out of jail,” Ash recounted. “Within hours, she had the money to get a plane ticket.”
That kind of flexibility is made possible by the organization’s decision to avoid traditional grant funding.
“We decided 17 years ago that we didn’t ever want to take grants,” Ash said. “It puts so many restrictions on you. You have to follow so many different things.”
Instead, Liza’s Lifeline relies on individual donations and the sale of custom-designed bronze and silver charms. You can purchase Liza’s Lifeline Charms here.
“The more charms we can sell, the more we can do,” Ash added.
In addition to direct aid, Liza’s Lifeline plays a key role in policy advocacy. The organization supported South Carolina House Bill 3569, which allows survivors of domestic violence to break their leases without penalty. The bill has passed the House and is expected to move through the Senate and become law by the end of next year.
Liza’s Lifeline also partners with the Charleston Animal Society to temporarily foster pets for survivors who are transitioning between living situations.
“We’re here, and we want to make huge changes,” Ash said.
Reflecting on her commitment to the work, Ash told Holy City Sinner, “I can’t imagine myself doing anything other than nonprofit work.”