Back in 2018 I was asked to deliver the keynote address at the Sexual Assault Victim Advocacy Center’s annual fundraiser. To say I was thrilled was an understatement. I had long been an advocate educator for the non-profit and my mom was actually a part of their board, still running many scrapbooking fundraisers to benefit them. SAVA center is our community victim resource providing direct victim services, counseling, and prevention education in Weld and Larimer counties.
“I love your dress!”
“Thanks, it has POCKETS!”
The Soiree itself is hands-down my favorite fundraiser of the year. It’s black-tie optional with great food, dancing, silent and live auctions, and plenty of drinks to go around. But the best part of this year? My dress had POCKETS!
Following dinner the SAVA staff started the program and extended their thanks to all us attendees. They highlighted the previous year’s achievements and unveiled impressive statistics about the number of community members served.
And then, it was time for the keynote. Instead of their Executive Director reading my typical speaker bio, local videographer Corey Valencia had donated his time and talent to create a uniquely wonderful introduction. The lights went down, the crowd hushed, and a video of my family and my story filmed over the previous months played to the room of almost 900.
If you missed the event live, you can watch the video below. Please, visit SAVA’s website to consider donating to their vital work supporting our communities.
