February 23rd marked our 14th Annual Cup of Compassion Breakfast.  It was my second one, and I have to tell you, it really moved me.  We featured two amazing individuals who were brave enough to tell how the Crisis Center impacted their lives.  I'm so inspired by them that I want to share their stories with you. 

Mary Ann described herself as a doting, devoted grandmother to Arianna.  She enjoyed spoiling her the way all grandmothers do.  However, when Arianna's mother took her own life, Mary Ann's role changed from grandmother to mother.  In her role new role as parent, she recognized the trauma Arianna had experienced at the sudden loss of her mother.  She contacted the Crisis Center and enrolled Arianna in the Corbett Trauma Center's Stepped Care therapy program.  Over the course of several weeks, Mary Ann watched as Arianna returned back to the child she had been.  Mary Ann stated "I got my Arianna back" and it was due to the therapy she received through the Crisis Center.

Our second incredible testimonial came from Melissa.  She is a young, vibrant woman who is an engaging stand-up comic.  Her story started one evening when she met a man considered a legend in the comedic world.  Her friends knew him and Melissa was excited that he had taken an interest in her and her career.  When he offered to work with her individually at his apartment, Melissa jumped at this great opportunity.  While the beginning of the work session started well, it soon led to a terrifying place:  Melissa was raped.  Unfortunately, Melissa experienced feelings not uncommon of rape survivors - she felt overwhelmed, depressed, and was made to feel responsible for the rape by people around her.  She reached out to the Crisis Center and was connected with our Sexual Assault Services program.   Melissa discovered that she could indeed heal from this traumatic experience and move forward with her life. You can learn more about Melissa by reading the article we've included in this month's newsletter.

The Crisis Center is dedicated to the tenets of its mission: ensuring no one in our community has to face a crisis alone.  Mary Ann and Melissa are just two of the thousands who experience help, hope and healing at the Crisis Center.  Thanks to support from generous people like you, we are able to be there whenever a crisis happens, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In grateful appreciation!

Clara