Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support’s CEO discusses the nonprofit, recent luncheon

Founded in 1985, Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support provides critical aid to women and children who are experiencing domestic abuse. Serving more than 2,800 clients each year, this Dallas-based nonprofit has become an integral part of the fabric of our community. All services are free to those in need, supported by donations, grants and events including its signature annual fundraiser.

The 2026 Genesis Women’s Shelter Luncheon took place at the Hilton Anatole on Friday, May 8. The event featured Emmy and Golden Globe-award winning actor and advocate Mariska Hargitay as the keynote speaker, drawing more than 1,500 attendees and raising a total of $1.14 million. Star power aside, Jan Langbein, CEO of Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support, holds the luncheon close to her heart as “a celebration of resilience and hope.”

“At the end of the day, our goal remains simple,” says Langbein. “We want every woman and child experiencing abuse to know there is help available, and there is hope for a better future.”

First, what brought you to this role, and how long have you been with the organization?

I’ve spent more than 30 years working to end violence against women, and I’ve had the privilege of serving as CEO of Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support for much of that journey.

What drew me here (and what keeps me here) is the opportunity to create accessible pathways to safety and healing. I’ve always believed that if we can educate our community on what domestic violence is and the root causes, while also providing direct services, we can create lasting change.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to grow Genesis from a small emergency shelter into one of the most comprehensive domestic violence service providers in the country. I’ve also had the privilege to cofound the International Conference on Crimes Against Women, held annually right here in Dallas, and to initiate the Dallas County Intimate Partner Violence Fatality Review Board. It’s been the honor of my life to be part of this work.

Over the years, the services provided by Genesis have expanded. Can you tell us more about the “support” side of the organization?

When Genesis first opened, our primary focus was our emergency shelter. We know that the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship is when the survivor chooses to leave the relationship, so women and children need safe places to go when making that critical decision. However, we quickly realized that leaving an abusive relationship is only the first step, and that’s where the “support” side evolved.

We have expanded into counseling and case management for women who may not need shelter, but certainly still need help. In addition to counseling and trauma healing, they often need legal services, financial planning assistance, childcare resources, and transitional housing. We have also added a 24-hour helpline with a text chat option.

Specific to the annual luncheon, it’s become a highly-anticipated event which always showcases a prominent keynote speaker with a connection to the cause. How was this year’s speaker selected?

For years, Mariska Hargitay has used her platform to elevate conversations around sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse, not just through her role on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, but as the founder of the Joyful Heart Foundation. Through the foundation, she and her team achieved rape reform in all 50 states across our nation. Her advocacy doesn’t end when the cameras stop rolling.

The luncheon also includes the presentation of Genesis’ annual Jane Doe Award. Can you tell us more about this year’s honoree?

Dr. Terry Flowers, the Perot Family Headmaster of St. Philip’s School and Community Center, has demonstrated the highest level of support for women and children taking their first steps toward hope and healing. He understands the need for safe communities and safe homes within those communities, and he has been instrumental in bringing resources and businesses to the parts of our city where survivors can benefit from them most. He is a strong male role model, showcasing the strong impact men can have when they advocate for survivors of domestic violence.

Reflecting on years past, what does this event mean to you personally?

For me, the annual luncheon represents hope. What always stays with me is looking out into the ballroom at people who have come together because they believe women and children deserve safety and respect in relationships. It’s a reminder that our community wants to listen to survivors and believe their stories.

How can we support Genesis the other 364 days of the year?

Come volunteer your time and resources. Get involved with one of our auxiliary groups or our young professionals group. Financial donations are always impactful because we receive zero funding from the government — we rely on community members and individual supporters to keep our services accessible. We also encourage people to educate themselves about domestic violence and talk openly about it. Awareness is prevention, and every conversation helps break the stigma.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.