Lived Experience
Founded by a survivor who understands the system from the inside
What We Do
Understanding our mission, story, and the comprehensive support we provide to domestic violence survivors
Char's Story
The Beginning
Before Charlotte Klisares (Char) was even born, she survived a traumatic attempt on her life when her mother tried to kill her while still in the womb. This early trauma marked the beginning of enduring physical abuse in her family home alongside her mother and siblings.
The resilience that carried Char through these difficult early years became the foundation for her adult success. She channeled that same determination into building a thriving real estate business, eventually establishing herself as a prominent leader in the Des Moines community. Her professional achievements stand as a testament to how she transformed childhood adversity into entrepreneurial strength.
A New Crisis
At the peak of her professional success, Char encountered a new kind of crisis when she attempted to end a brief relationship. Her former partner, skilled at exploiting legal loopholes, filed false accusations against her. The fabricated charges resulted in an arrest warrant and thrust Char into an unwanted spotlight - she became the lead story on local news and front-page news in the local paper, coverage that eventually reached a global audience.
The ordeal dragged on for 200 days before all charges were finally dismissed. This experience exposed Char to a form of victimization she had never previously encountered: systematic abuse and neglect perpetrated by the very institutions designed to deliver justice and protection.
"You are not alone."
Our Mission
CKRET Foundation was born out of Char's story. Its aim is to bridge the gaps inherent in the current justice system and to help prevent the cycle of violence from repeating.
"The justice system is doing the best it can, but sometimes it's the wrong place to go for domestic issues. If I can do all of this in my world, I want to show other people all that is possible."
CKRET Foundation is there to bring that help.
Our Six Pillars of Support
At CKRET Foundation, we understand that surviving domestic violence requires more than just escaping—it requires rebuilding, healing, and thriving. Our comprehensive approach addresses every aspect of your journey from crisis to recovery and beyond.
1
Immediate Crisis Support
2
Safety Planning
3
Legal Navigation
4
Healing & Recovery
5
Rebuilding & Independence
6
Long-term Thriving
Our Comprehensive Services
We help coordinate the following:
Education & Awareness
- Understanding your options and rights
- Counseling and support groups
- Workshops and conferences
- Educational webinars
- Resource podcasts
- Safety planning guidance
Implementation Support
- Step-by-step situation navigation
- Logical planning assistance
- Crisis intervention
- Emergency planning
- Resource coordination
- Timeline development
Safe Havens Network
- Safe zones outside governmental visibility
- Emergency food resources
- Temporary shelter assistance
- Transportation support
- Confidential housing
- Community partnerships
Legal Advocacy
- Legal step guidance
- Attorney connections
- Court accompaniment
- Legal document assistance
- Rights education
- System navigation
Professional Network
- Medical professional referrals
- Mental health counselors
- Clergy and spiritual support
- Psychologist connections
- Therapy resources
- Trauma specialists
Aftercare & Rebuilding
- Life coaching support
- Rebuilding assistance
- Career guidance
- Financial planning
- Ongoing mentorship
- Success story sharing
Our Impact
Measuring our commitment since September 26, 2016
2,950+
Days of Experience Navigating System Challenges
8
Types of Abuse We Address
24/7
Crisis Support Available
100%
Committed to Your Success
Why Choose CKRET Foundation?
Comprehensive Support
We address every aspect of the survivor journey
Trauma-Informed Approach
All our services are designed with trauma recovery in mind.
Confidential & Safe
We prioritize your privacy and safety above all else
No Judgment Zone
We meet you where you are, without judgment or pressure
Long-term Commitment
We're here for your entire journey, not just the crisis
Ready to Start Your Journey?
We're here for you if you need support navigating difficult situations - call us anytime