Foundation aims to help victims of abuse
Brent Fox, right, wears plenty of protective gear during his self-defense classes, teaching where and how to strike someone who may be attacking. The Sabrina Lee Foundation for Domestic Abuse Victims provided a free class as part of its mission to protect victims of abuse.
Stacia Schnoor is determined to create something good out of something very, very bad.
To that end, she has created the Sabrina Lee Foundation for Domestic Abuse Victims, named in honor of her daughter.
Sabrina Schnoor was found dead on May 30, nearly 24 hours after authorities say her ex-boyfriend shot her under an Interstate 35 overpass near the Steele County Administration building.
Jason Lee Horner faces charges that include second-degree murder with intent, not premeditated, and a felony count of possessing a firearm after being convicted for a crime of violence.
A review of his criminal history indicates multiple prior charges for violent offenses.
“I promised my daughter I will make changes in this broken system, and I will do all I can to keep this from happening to another girl,” Stacia Schnoor said.
The foundation is centered around individual needs of domestic abuse victims and their safety.
That includes self-defense classes, the first of which was held April 14 at Vibes in Owatonna. The free class was taught by Brent Fox, of Fox Defense Training.
“It was a very successful class,” Schnoor said. “I think it really helped (the participants) gain knowledge and empowered them to use their voices and feel more confident in themselves.”
In addition to the classes, the foundation plans to provide security cameras, stun guns, pepper spray, and lock changes, as well as help moving, if necessary.
It will not purchase guns but will provide gun safety courses after a victim legally qualifies to buy one.
Schnoor said there will be resources for housing, crisis management, and therapy, specializing in PTSD, trauma, and domestic abuse.
“Our goal is to help them stay safe after they take steps to help themselves get out of these abusive relationships,” she said. “I personally will also go with (anyone) who wants to file a police report, apply for a restraining order, go to court, or meet with prosecuting attorneys.”
The bigger picture includes working toward change in the courts and legal system, “so habitual offenders are no longer let back out on the streets,” Schnoor said.
The nonprofit is relying on donations to start the foundation; some of the funding may be used early to help someone in an emergency situation.
Donations of office supplies, locks/deadbolts, security cameras, hygiene supplies, feminine products, underwear, and socks are welcome.
The foundation is hosting an open board meeting to introduce it to the public.
The event will be at 4 p.m. April 28 at Lansing Corners, 27017 U.S. Highway 218, Austin.
For more information, email sabrinaleefoundation@gmail.com
A 24-hour emergency phone number is 507-473-5732.