Our Founder and Executive Director

Project Nightlight was founded in 2002 by Stacia Oemig. Because of abuse in her own past, Stacia knew first hand about the fear and shame that almost always prevents children from reporting abuse. 

As the oldest child, Stacia became the protector for her much younger brother.  Even though she knew that abuse was wrong and illegal, she had no idea of what would happen if anyone found out.  And, most importantly, she was afraid that by reporting it, she would be removed from the home, leaving no one to protect her baby brother. 

Like most abusers, Stacia’s parents did their best to severely tarnish her reputation within her family and small town community, so that if she did ever get the courage to reach out for help,  no one would believe her.  Eventually, based on an anonymous tip, social workers started investigating the family, but Stacia, still afraid of and not understanding social services, denied the abuse. 

Years later, Stacia realized that ironically, the people at social services that she was so afraid of, were probably the only people on her side.  Had she only understood them and had the courage to reach out for help, she may have saved herself and her brother from years of violence.    

Unfortunately, just like Stacia, most children are afraid to report abuse for one reason or another.  Project Nightlight addresses this fear, by explaining the legal process that begins after abuse is reported, foster care, going to family court and much more.  Ultimately, giving children the knowledge and courage needed to reach out if they are ever a victim of abuse.   

Now Stacia lives happily in Venice, California with 2 cats and occasionally a foster bunny or puppy...or two.

Top 10 Random Fun Facts
Favorite Causes aside from PN: PETA, National Resources Defense Council
Favorite Sport: Snow & Skateboarding... still figuring out that surfing thing
Favorite Color: Yellow
Past Life: Before starting Project Nightlight, Stacia was a software consultant for IBM.
College: Georgia Tech, Degree in Civil Engineering (with an emphasis in Environmental)
Pets: Bella and Zeke
Favorite Shoes: Stella McCartney ( the only designer to say no to leather!)
Starbucks or Coffee Bean: Starbucks
Name Trivia: Stacia Oemig was named Eustacia Danielle Oemig at birth, but friends called her Stacia. Her step dad adopted her at the age of 10 and changed it to Stacy Danielle Oemig McCormack. After college, she changed it back to her birthname, Stacia Danielle Oemig, (minus the "Eu" in "Eustacia"). Confused yet?
Random Allergies: Stacia swears that she is allergic to sweat and can't go to power yoga classes because she'll break out in hives. We're still not convinced...