Our Remarkable Story: Volunteers began the Rap Line (crisis hotline) in 1971 in response to the tragic suicide of teenager Karen Leshk in 1971. Co-founders the Rev. Dr. Donald G. Capp and Shirley Caylor obtained initial funding from the city of Gary's revenue-sharing funds, and the center has grown to include the Alternative House emergency shelter for children and youth, Safe Place outreach to youth in crisis and Teen Court prevention and early intervention services for youth. Mission Statement: Strengthening communities and empowering families with an emphasis on children in need of shelter, safety, and support. We are an equal opportunity provider. Crisis Center, Inc. does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.