Hope Harbor hosts SpeakOUT Speakeasy to raise awareness for sexual violence victims

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A throwback to the 1920s helps benefit a local nonprofit’s cause of raising awareness for sexual assault victims.

Hope Harbor hosted its 4th SpeakOUT Speakeasy at the Charleston Friday night.

The night included a silent auction, along with food and drink, but the night is about more than just having fun and reminiscing.

The reason a speakeasy was chosen, we’re told, is because they were very taboo back in their day, just like the stories of victims of sexual violence.

Melissa Whitley, Director of Hope Harbor says a night like this makes it easier for those who are affected to get the help they need.

“Having an event like this really helps Hope Harbor raise money… for the nonprofits so we can keep our services free to all survivors… and they don’t have one more barrier for payment or insurance that they’ll have to have to have those services,” .

She also says she wants the community to know it’s OK to talk about sexual violence, whether you or someone you may know has gone through it… and they are very fortunate to have a community full of support for those victims.