Jim Clardy was a former audit supervisor in the Missouri Department of Economic Development when he became the executive director of the Jefferson City Rape and Abuse Crisis Service (RACS) in June 1999.
The RACS board of directors chose Clardy to replace Linda Dudgeon, and it was the first time a man headed the agency, which serves primarily women and children.
The change came after RACS moved into their current shelter, which was built with local contributions and a state grant.
"It's been 12 years, and the first thing I think about is how the numbers of bed nights have increased," Clardy said. "In 1999, we had 5,435 bed nights. Last year, we had 7,770 with an average capacity of 65 percent. In just the last two to three months of this year, we've been nearing 100 percent capacity. We have increased our staff and outreach to surrounding counties such Moniteau and Miller. That's also increased out counseling sessions."