Next week Copper Shores Victim Support invites the Copper Country to a fun event in support of survivors of sexual assault. The 5th annual Paws for a Cause puppy parade helps get the community outside for an early spring day, and to learn more about various services in the region. Copper Shores victims advocate Brayden Rachel says before the 17th, staff will begin placing signs along the parade route, that share important statistics about sexual assault and rape in the united states.
The thing that we see a lot is people don’t realize just how many community members are affected by both sexual assault and victimization as a whole. And it’s not only our community members that are affected by becoming victims, but it’s also their family, the people that are around them, their neighbors, their friends. So it affects our community in drastically different ways. And that’s why we’re putting these signs out there. They may be a little shocking to read, but they’re very true. And it brings light to a very important fact that we need to be here to stand in support of our community. – Brayden Rachel, victim advocate, Copper Shores Victim Support
Domestic violence and sexual assault advocates from several agencies also plan to attend the puppy parade. Including representatives of local law enforcement and the Houghton County prosecutor’s office. Rachel says copper shores works closely with partner organizations and law enforcement on training opportunities, to support victims during investigations, and generally educate the community.
It’s been an absolute privilege working with both Dan and Hillary up at the prosecuting office as well as all of our law enforcement partners. They are going above and beyond for our victims, becoming more educated both in trauma and how to support our victims. So it’s been fantastic working with them and working alongside them. But just like anything, just like we want to educate our community, we’re working as hard as we can to educate our law enforcement, educate our prosecutors, and educate ourselves. So that we can better serve our community like we have been. – Brayden Rachel, victim advocate, Copper Shores Victim Support
The annual puppy parade brings survivors of sexual crimes to the forefront of the community’s mind. During sexual assault awareness month, events such as the parade have helped educate individuals and connect victims with services in a discreet way.
Our victims are forefront of our minds because something has happened to them, whether it’s been past or recent victimization. We want to show our support for them, not only within the resources that we offer but also through community support. So we want to invite everybody within our community to come to join us, show your support, and learn and educate yourself a little bit more. And ultimately just have a fun day too. Sit back relax and enjoy the spring weather that we’re all hoping for. – Brayden Rachel, victim advocate, Copper Shores Victim Support
Copper Shores victim support will join friends from the Barbara Kettle Gundlach shelter home, and Baraga County Shelter at the Quincy green. Alongside local law enforcement, community leaders, and friends. The puppy parade will also invite the dog father to attend for some delicious hot dogs and brats.
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