About Dottie’s House
Founded in 1999, Dottie’s House is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization based in Ocean County, NJ. Our mission is to provide safe housing for women and their children through a program that empowers them to become self-sufficient and free from violence.
Dottie’s House capacity is 17 families, including anywhere from 35-50 children. Families reside in individually fully furnished apartments in a secure facility, thanks to the generosity of our community. Funding comes from private donations, foundations, grants and our events.
Our Founder, Carol Wolfe
After reading several articles of acts of domestic violence committed throughout the State of New Jersey, Mrs. Wolfe recognized that Ocean County had been among one of the highest ranked counties where many of these cases had occurred. She decided it was time to do something about it. Domestic violence affected Mrs. Wolfe dearly because her mother was a victim. Like many other victims, she stayed with her abuser because that was all she knew and she had nowhere else to go with her children.
Mrs. Wolfe envisioned a safe home for female victims of domestic violence where they could bring their children to escape their abuser in a safe, secure environment. However, she didn't just want to create a roof over their heads; she wanted to offer a program that makes a difference in the lives of the families it serves. Her vision soon became a reality when Dottie's House opened its doors on May 21, 2001. While the facility was initially named Sea Shelter, it was renamed Dottie's House in honor of Mrs. Wolfe's mother, Dottie Camilli, who unfortunately passed away during the construction phase of the project. However, we know Dottie is there in spirit, guiding the women through this life changing program.
In 2019, Dottie’s House sadly lost their founder. It is in her honor that we fight so hard for our residents today.
