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VOICES of Stephenson County's observance of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month was designed to help build community awareness -- and we believe it succeeded. Some posts in the social media campaign reached more than 500 people, and staff were interviewed multiple times on television regarding sexual assault topics during April.
In addition, VOICES Book Nook Spring Half-Price Sale, held in early April, netted the largest amount of money ever at a store sale. Remember, all proceeds support VOICES programs. We are so grateful to all of the customers and Book Nook volunteers who made that feat possible. Thank you so much!
April also brought more welcome news to VOICES. The Freeport Community Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to VOICES that will enable it to replace rusted handrails at its front entrance. A $6,000 grant from the First Lutheran Church Endowment Fund also is assisting with the effort. Work also is under way on VOICES website update, which is funded by a fall grant from the Freeport Community Foundation.
All was not lighthearted in April. VOICES staff continued to serve sexual assault and domestic violence survivors in high numbers. We are supporting these women, men and children with advocacy, counseling and housing as they journey toward healing.
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