Who We Are 

About Us

Our mission is to prevent the abuse and neglect of children and adults by supporting families in crisis through education, counseling, advocacy, and resources.

Since 1977, The Nest has been a lifeline for all individuals and families in crisis, facing adversity, or who have unexpected needs. Our holistic approach incorporates four FREE programs: early childhood education and care, family assistance for basic human needs, counseling and advocacy for survivors of intimate partner violence, and education and support for parents. 

Our vision is to create a community where children, adults, and families thrive by transforming their lives through real and sustainable change. 

Our values that guide us each day towards that vision include:

• Passion: We promote life-long learning and are committed in heart and mind.

• Responsibility: We provide quality service by being adaptable, accepting ownership of our actions, and taking accountability for our results.

• Inclusion: We create a welcoming environment of mutual respect, acceptance and dignity for all.

• Collaboration: We effectively communicate, support one another, and combine our strengths to achieve greater goals.

• Empathy: We take the time to understand and recognize each other’s journey.

• Safety: We prioritize the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of our clients, team and partners.

Our Anti-Racism Pledge

We are committed to being an anti-racist organization through our actions, as well as our continued effort to create equal opportunities for all and ensure equity between racial groups. Understanding racial equity and practicing those principles takes an ongoing commitment to learning and openness that is the responsibility of each one of us. Our mission for a diverse and inclusive environment demands that our words come from a place of respect, empathy, and a deep understanding and appreciation of our individual differences.

Our Locations

History of The Nest 

The Nest was founded in 1977 when two organizations, The Lexington Child Abuse Council and The Women’s Center of Central Kentucky, joined forces to become The Nest - Center for Women, Children & Families.

The organization streamlined the work of both entities into one that could provide high quality, comprehensive services to individuals, children, and families in crisis, while working to prevent child abuse and neglect. The center has continually offered resources and support for all people to develop the skills and education needed for a healthier lifestyle and self-sufficiency. 

The History of the Morton House

The Nest is located in the Morton House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. William Morton, commonly known as “Lord” Morton because of his ruffled shirts and old-world courtliness, purchased the 22-acre lot 76 between Fifth and Sixth Streets in 1795 for one sterling shilling. In 1810, Morton built his home facing what was then Mulberry Street, now North Limestone.

After William Morton’s death in 1836, his two daughters sold the property to Cassius Marcellus Clay for $18,000. Clay was the son of the largest slave-holder in the west. In his newspaper, The True American, he defiantly spoke out against slavery, making him one of the most hated men in the state of Kentucky. 

After the Clays sold the property, it went through the hands of two families - the Warfields and the Duncans. It is the Duncan family for whom the park surrounding the house is named. The building became vacant for several decades. The Nest acquired the building in 1989 from the city and has been serving the Lexington community ever since as a safe and healing place within this historic home.