RACS was founded in 1980 by volunteers who saw the need to support survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. These innovative women started a 24/7 hotline. RACS became a certified nonprofit in 1981. In 1982 RACS utilized “safe houses” to shelter those fleeing abuse.  That year, RACS became a United Way Partner Agency and a Volunteer Coordinator was hired as the first paid staff member. Leila Reynolds became RACS’ first Executive Director in 1983. RACS purchased the first building in 1984 to serve as the first RACS shelter.

In 1997, RACS raised in excess of $1.5 million ($550,000 from Mo Dept. of Public Safety), for the construction of a new shelter designed to house 40 guests. The shelter was completed in 1999 and has 9 suites which can house a total of 42 guests.

RACS is currently in its 44th year of serving survivors in Central Missouri. The agency continues to expand and enhance services that are provided at no cost to survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

In 2020, Angela Hirsch joined the RACS team as the current Executive Director.