Empowered Voices: Healing Through Advocacy

Several years ago, the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC) began the Empowered Voices program to support former KCSARC clients who want to make their voices heard in the community. Today, Empowered Voices is a dynamic group of survivors from all over King County who are making an incredible impact in our local communities and statewide.

For many Empowered Voices members, sharing their story is a powerful part of their healing journey. By speaking out, they aim to let other survivors know that they are not alone, and help our communities and policymakers deepen their understanding and improve their response to sexual violence.

Beyond speaking opportunities, members are interested in finding community and continued education on the topics they are advocating for. This year, we’ve revitalized the Empowered Voices program to include quarterly workshops, trainings and opportunities to connect with one another. In our first session, both longstanding and new members connected, celebrated each other’s achievements, exchanged valuable advice and engaged in meaningful discussions with staff about how KCSARC can best support their advocacy efforts.

Here are some highlights of their incredible advocacy work in 2024:

• Lorna and Kristy took the stage at the annual BE LOUD Breakfast.
• Jess shared her story at the KCSARC Board of Directors retreat.
• Haley inspired attendees at a fundraiser held at the KCSARC office.
• Kristy penned a blog post to support fundraising for KCSARC services.
• Lisa shared her journey at a fundraiser held at a KCSARC donor’s home.
• Lynne provided a compelling testimony before the Senate.
• Andy, Lynne, Heaven, Lorna and Sarah participated in videos for KCSARC’s 2023-24 Impact Report.
• Heaven accepted a proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month in her city.

We are deeply grateful to Empowered Voices members who volunteer their time with this program, and who do so much to educate and drive positive change in our communities. It’s an honor to work with them and support their voices.

If you’re a former KCSARC client who wants to explore how you can raise your voice for change, we invite you to join Empowered Voices. Click here to learn more about our program and let us know you’re interested by completing an application form at the bottom of the page.