For Immediate Release
May 5, 2008

Contact:    Rick Liebel
                Public Relations and Development Director
                814 455-1774x 234
                814 881-6530 cell

SafeNet Announces Recipient of the Susan Hirt Hagen Award

Clemont R. Austin, President of EE Austin & Son, Inc., is this year's recipient of the Susan Hirt Hagen Award. In addition to the Susan Hirt Hagen Award, Mr. Austin will receive several proclamations from Federal, State and Local governments. Founded in 1906, the company is one of the largest and oldest established general contractors in the region. Cle has carried forth the family business plus his family's tradition of helping people and making Erie a better place to live. In 1998, Cle co-chaired our successful $1 million capital campaign and has provided invaluable advice and financial support to SafeNet.

Our award is named in honor of longtime friend of SafeNet, Susan Hirt Hagen. It is bestowed on those, who like her, generously donate their time, talent and treasure in the belief that every individual has the right to be respected and live a life free from abuse. Mr. Austin will receive his award and a luncheon in his honor on May 8, 2008 at the Harlequin Ballroom at the Bayfront Sheraton. Registration begins at 11:15 a.m. with the lunch and program beginning at noon. The guest speaker will be the Honorable Jane Earll, Pennsylvania State Senator.

SafeNet is not a homeless shelter, but a safe and confidential place specifically for men, women and children who are victims of domestic violence.  From every city and township in the area, victims come to SafeNet seeking support, safety and shelter from physical abuse and threats of violence occurring at home.  After more than 30 years of providing shelter and many other supportive services, SafeNet knows first-hand that there is hope and there is help.

PLEASE NOTE: For interviews with SafeNet's Executive Director or any staff member of SafeNet, contact Rick Liebel, Public Relations and Development Director, at 455-1774 extension 234, cell 814-881-6530 or email at rliebel@safeneterie.org.