Freedom House marks its 42nd anniversary this Founder’s Day by honoring the vision and compassion of its late founder, Nedda Simon. In 1983, Simon established the agency after recognizing the lack of safe shelters for victims of domestic violence in the region. With relentless dedication, she expanded services throughout Bureau, Henry, Marshall, Putnam, and Stark counties. Today, Freedom House supports around 1,000 survivors each year with critical resources, from a 24/7 hotline to emergency shelter. As the organization reflects on its past, it invites the community to join in carrying forward Simon’s legacy of safety, justice, and hope for all. For support or to get involved, contact Freedom House at 815-872-0087 or visit freedomhouseillinois.org.
The first Freedom House was located in Wyanet and later moved to 314 N. Euclid Ave. in Princeton; the shelter eventually settled at its current location at 440 Elm Place. Nedda’s legacy at Freedom House spans decades of unwavering dedication. Her leadership brought the agency’s vital services to five counties, including new offices in Kewanee and the Cambridge Courthouse. As founder of the Freedom House Foundation, Nedda expanded support and resources for survivors. Even after becoming Emeritus Director in 2018, she stayed active, welcoming new DV/SV training graduates, personally thanking donors, and mentoring staff. Her advocacy for victim rights, hands-on event organization, and family-led renovation of three shelter rooms highlight a lifetime committed to service and compassion, leaving a lasting impact on both staff and the community.
Nedda, who passed away on October 1, 2024, leaves behind a remarkable legacy of compassion in her community. After discovering the lack of shelters for battered women near Princeton, she dedicated herself to finding a solution. Her efforts culminated in the opening of the first Freedom House shelter in Wyanet on May 9, 1983. Over the years, she remained deeply involved as Freedom House moved and expanded, providing a safe haven to women and children in need. Nedda’s vision has shaped countless lives, as she once said, “Freedom House is my fulfilled dream to offer safe haven to all women and their dependents,” Nedda once said. Freedom House has indeed impacted countless lives, all due to Nedda and her dream.
