Olive Crest

Olive Crest is very clear on how to Stop Child Abuse!

Olive Crest has been a steadfast advocate for vulnerable children and families for over five decades. Founded by Dr. Donald and Lois Verleur, who opened their home to four teenage girls, the organization drew inspiration from the olive tree in their yard and the concept of a family crest. This led to the creation of Olive Crest, symbolizing a “peaceful family.” Today, Olive Crest serves over 5,000 children and families daily across California, Nevada, and the Pacific Northwest, focusing on preventing child abuse, treating and educating at-risk children, and preserving families.

“After Dr. Donald and Lois Verleur provided a home for four teenage girls, they became inspired by the olive tree in the front yard, and the idea of a family crest. Olive Crest, a name symbolizing “peaceful family,” was born. Olive Crest is a leader in preventing child abuse, serving nearly 5300 children and families through California, Nevada, and the Pacific Northwest.”

Vision

A strong family for every child.

Mission

Olive Crest is dedicated to preventing child abuse, Treating and Educating at-risk children, and Preserving the family. “One Life at a Time.”^®

Statement of Faith

Olive Crest seeks to make available the teachings of Judeo-Christian principles while respecting the religious background of each individual. We acknowledge the Bible to be the inspired Word of God that teaches there is one Triune God and that salvation is a gift gained through forgiveness.

Recent Achievements

Transitional Housing Initiative: In September 2024, Olive Crest broke ground on a new 16-unit residential facility in Santa Ana, California, aimed at supporting homeless and housing-insecure young adults aged 18 to 25. This project is part of a broader $100 million capital campaign to expand supportive services across California, Nevada, and Washington.
Power of One Luncheon: In April 2024, Olive Crest hosted their annual Power of One Luncheon in Las Vegas, raising significant funds and awareness for child abuse prevention. The event highlighted the impact of community involvement in supporting vulnerable children and families.
Fundraising Success: In September 2023, Olive Crest raised over $140,000 during the “Champions of Children” event in Las Vegas, with Caesars Entertainment as the presenting sponsor. The funds support Olive Crest’s mission to end child abuse and neglect.

Impact

Olive Crest’s model of strengthening, equipping, and restoring children in crisis has proven effective in stopping the cycle of abuse and neglect. By providing intervention, training, counseling, education, and residential programs, the organization empowers families to become healthy and productive members of their communities.

Why It Matters

Olive Crest’s mission is not only about intervention—it’s about transformation. By placing children in nurturing environments and supporting families with education and resources, the organization works to stop the cycle of abuse before it starts. With faith, compassion, and action, Olive Crest is changing lives—one life at a time.