Annual breakfast continues to support Plateau people in need

The King County Sexual Assault Resource Center’s Enumclaw breakfast was another success. More than 140 supporters raised more than $19,370 so KCSARC can continue serving victims of sexual assault and their famlies in times of crisis and ensure KCSARC provide those services free of charge.

Services like those that helped Dennis, the father of three, whose young daughter was sexually assaulted by a trusted uncle.

Speaking to the group gathered at the Enumclaw High School commons April 27, he said his daughter is an active soccer player and straight-A student today, in part due to the assistance she and the family received through KCSARC.

Forty-eight percent of the victims served by KCSARC are children and teens; 61 percent are from south King County; 81 percent are female; 55 percent were assaulted by a family member.

Executive Director Mary Ellen Stone said KCSARC is gaining ground, statistics prove it, but they have not yet met its goal to eliminate sexual assault.

In 2007, KCSARC served 2,776 total primary victims.

This mission has driven the work of the agency since its founding in 1976. KCSARC has grown to be the largest sexual assault victim’s service organization in Washington.

Responsible for creating innovative, nationally-recognized prevention education and therapeutic programs, KCSARC’s work has been replicated around the country.

KCSARC’s original book, “He Told Me Not To Tell,” the first book published about child sexual abuse, has been printed in 10 languages in eight countries. At last count, more than 1 million copies have been distributed.

KCSARC provides: 24-hour sexual assault resource Line at 1-888-99-VOICE; individual therapy for children and adolescents; group therapy for adult survivors of childhood sexual assault; child advocacy to assess the needs of the child and family affected by sexual assault, and to provide parent education; medical advocacy for children and their caregivers during forensic medical exams; and egal advocacy for victims who must confront the lengthy and confusing proceedings of the criminal justice system.

KCARC also provides sexual assault prevention programs through education, resource materials and community outreach programs.

Enumclaw participants have donated $125,000 since the breakfast was started in 2002.

For information, regarding next year’s Enumclaw event, or to donate now, contact Lawrie Elliott at 425-282-0331 or email lelliott@kcsarc.org.