Last year I raised over $3,500 for SPEAKING OUT ABOUT RAPE, INC.® (SOAR®)!

I am putting my fear of heights aside yet again, and will be participating in Operation Freefall* on April 30, 2011 - in an effort to raise funds for community-based anti-sexual violence organizations nationwide. I’ll be making a tandem skydive attached to a USPA licensed tandem master. I can honestly say that though I was quite nervous the day of my skydive this past April, I felt the love and remembered the words of encouragement from many of you on that day, and it certainly helped me keep a smile on my face as I leapt from 12,000 feet.

Why am I committed to raising awareness about sexual violence? In 1999 I was the victim of a break-in and 4 hour sexual assault. Speaking out about my rape is not only healing for me, but it is an important step in moving towards a culture that will not shame rape survivors.

Please continue to support me in my journey, so that I can help provide rape victims with the resources that they need. Not every victim is as fortunate to have received the support that I have through the years, so thank you for helping me to make an impact!

I know that times are tough and that there are many fundraisers that you have to choose from, so donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. You will receive a receipt for tax deduction purposes upon your online donation. Thank you!

LM

*Operation Freefall is the only event of its kind to increase awareness of sexual violence. The event is held simultaneously across the country the last Saturday of each April. In the past ten years Operation Freefall has raised over $1,000,000,with nearly two-thirds of that going back to local community organizations to:

• Enhance local support and outreach services for survivors of sexual violence.
• Provide recovery, risk-reduction, and prosecution information to tens of millions of people, including many in your local community, each year.
• Help victims of sexual violence through the healing process.
• Educate lawmakers, police officers, students, the public, and the media about sexual assault.

Learn more at the Operation Freefall website: http://www.operationfreefall.com/