Let’s talk a little bit about our upcoming seminar on May 8th. (I’m so excited–are you?!)
While this event is not specifically intended “for survivors”–it’s open to anyone who cares about protecting children and the vulnerable–we are also keenly aware that with the rates of abuse as high as they are, we are likely to have those in attendance who are survivors of sexual abuse and assault.
Because of that, we always try to make even our general public events be survivor friendly in a variety of ways. Some of the key things include:
- Having a licensed counselor on site at no additional cost to you, who you can reach out to during the day for support if you desire.
- Providing a variety of grown coloring sheets and colored pencils that you can use as needed throughout the day.
- Having boxes of tissues available.
- Providing candy, snacks and yummy food.
- Having safe, supportive and understanding speakers, including law enforcement, who are available to chat during breaks.
- Law Enforcement is present, and willing and able to remove anyone who is behaving in an unsafe or abusive manner, or who has a previous history of abuse.
- The amazing Fritter, who is a service dog, trained specifically to work with people who have experienced trauma, is going to be there, God willing, with his handler, Detective Bobo! Fritter is outstanding in his field, for his ability to sense anxiety, sadness etc. and begin working his doggy charms to comfort and calm! Even if you aren’t a survivor, he’s certainly worth spending a bit of time interacting with! But he’s certainly a great comfort for survivors at our events!
Please know, we care if you are a survivor! Feel free to reach out for support to any staff member, our on-site counselor, or any of the speakers, if you need additional support during our May 8th event. We care.