The Journey Begins

The founding of Harbor House: What inspired its creation? The Barbara Moore Story

Kick-Off to Our 50th Anniversary: Honoring Our Founder, Barbara Moore

As Harbor House of Central Florida begins the countdown to our 50^th anniversary this December, we’re going back to where our story begins…with the woman whose courage and conviction made everything that followed possible.

Harbor House wouldn’t exist without the foundation laid by our founder, Barbara Moore. This tribute is more than a reflection on our past; it’s a recognition of someone who dedicated a significant portion of her life to advocating for and supporting survivors of domestic violence, long before community conversations existed the way they do today.

Courage Before It Was Common

Barbara left her husband at a time when women weren’t expected to leave. Many didn’t even consider it an option. But she did.

She made that choice so she could be free to build a life defined by purpose – one where she could do what she felt called to do, without anyone holding her back. And what she felt called to do was clear: Barbara loved women and children and wanted them to have the best life possible.

Her decision to leave wasn’t just a personal turning point. It became the beginning of a movement in our community.

From One Home to a Special Haven

Before there was a campus, before there was a shelter facility, before there was even the name Harbor House, there was Barbara Moore opening the door to her own home.

Originally created as Spouse Abuse, Inc., the organization began with Barbara doing what was most immediate and most human: she harbored abused women and children. From those early days of direct, personal support, the work grew, eventually leading to the first building constructed on what is now the Harbor House of Central Florida campus.

What started with one woman’s determination became a place of safety and hope for countless individuals and families.

A Legacy That Still Leads Us

Barbara is no longer with us today as she lost her battle with cancer years ago. But her spirit and her legacy remain deeply present in the work we do and the community we continue to build.

We are honored that Barbara’s daughter, Melissa Edrie Moore, is carrying her story forward on her behalf. Melissa’s reflection offers a powerful, personal glimpse into who Barbara was, what she faced, and why her choices mattered – not just to her family, but to an entire community.

Watch the video to learn more about Barbara Moore, in Melissa’s own words. Harbor House honored Barbara as a Legacy Leader at the annual Signature Purple Door Luncheon in 2022.
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With Gratitude to the Family Who Stood Beside Her

Today, this is the community Barbara Moore always dreamed of – and there’s no doubt she has shaped it through all of us along the way. She left the ultimate legacy in our community and helped pave the way for other organizations as well. Her bravery became a blueprint. Her compassion became a standard. And her belief in what was possible continues to guide Harbor House today.

As we move toward 50 years, we carry her story with us because it’s not just where we came from. It’s who we still strive to be.