About The Founder

Justine Rice, B.S., M.Ed.

Catherine’s Safe Haven was founded by Justine Rice, a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and rehabilitation. A Toledo native and proud graduate of Toledo Public Schools (Toledo Early College), Justine holds degrees in Criminal Justice from The University of Toledo and education from Mount Vernon Nazarene University , and is a licensed Intervention specialist with extensive experience supporting at-risk youth.

Her career began in 2018 as a corrections officer, then as a residential specialist at the Lucas County Youth Treatment Center (2019-2024). These experiences gave her firsthand insight into the challenges youth face in the justice system and during reentry. Today, she continues her mission as an intervention specialist at Westfield High School, serving students with emotional disabilities.

Justine is committed to creating a community where youth can not only access critical support but also develop the skills and confidence needed to stay on the right path and thrive within society. Driven by a belief that support alone isn’t enough, Justine created Catherine’s Safe Haven to bridge the gap between resources and lasting success. Her goal is to provide young people with the guidance, education, and mentorship they they need to overcome obstacles, reintegrate successfully, and achieve lasting self-sufficiency.

Meet Catherine

Catherine Craig — lovingly known to many as "Cat Cat" — was a vibrant spirit full of life, love, compassion, and unwavering hope. She had an extraordinary gift for connecting with people from all walks of life, especially those who lacked a safe and supportive space. Catherine carried a deep empathy and understanding for individuals facing hardship, and she passionately believed that every person — no matter their background or struggles — deserved to know they were valued, loved, and not defined by society’s labels.

Her life was a living example of kindness and acceptance. As a devoted mother to her son, DeVonne Fagan Jr. (DJ), Catherine instilled the importance of love, fairness, and treating everyone with dignity, no matter their differences. Through her actions and her heart, she modeled compassion, strength, and the belief that hope should always be within reach for those who feel lost or forgotten.

Catherine’s dream was to create a true safe haven for young individuals — a place where they could heal, grow, and find hope. In honor of her legacy, Catherine’s Safe Haven was founded to carry out her vision: offering youth the support, encouragement, and opportunities they need to thrive and know they are never alone. Catherine’s light continues to shine through every life touched by Catherine’s Safe Haven.