05/20/23
Sip N Spin, Hays, KS
Put together by Options: Domestic & Sexual Violence Services over the last 2 years, Campus Advocate Anniston Weber spoke a little about the event and what Options has to offer.
“This is the second year Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services has hosted RAR, and we are hoping to keep the event going every year – hopefully even expanding the concert to other towns and venues at some point! The overall mission of Options is simple: We are here to provide options of help, hope and healing to victims and survivors of violence and abuse.
“As the Campus Advocate, I focus heavily on our “younger” population of clients. So, my primary area of outreach is to people high school to college aged. Because I am so campus centric, I am able to see firsthand what our drinking culture/rape culture looks like around the area. Rock Against Rape was kind of born out of that. This is an awareness event that shows people that everyone deserves respect and consent – even while you’re drinking and partying in a bar. Plus – music connects everyone! I want people here to know that they are never alone and there’s always someone or something out there to get them help.
“Last year’s event was very successful. Our main goal is to spread awareness that Options exists as a service to help people experiencing abuse. Because of our event last year, we generated interest in our SafeBar Alliance training and we increased our services to people aged 18-25.
“The Sip ‘N Spin bar owner was kind enough to donate the door cover charge to Options last year – which was something we didn’t expect! We don’t know if that will be the case again this year since the primary objective of the event is for outreach – not fundraising. But, of course, donations are always welcome.
“This event is also a good opportunity for Options to advertise our SafeBar Alliance training where I go into bars and teach staff about how to intervene when they suspect someone may have been slipped something or might be entering a dangerous situation. The training also teaches bar staff how to handle sexual assault situations between their coworkers. This training is available to any place or event that serves alcohol!”
Options also has a website where you can learn more about our mission, donate, read our blogs, and find help! https://help4abuse.org/
Free Minded:
About Options: In October 1983, individuals from the City of Hays and Fort Hays State University began an agency to meet the needs for victims of domestic and sexual violence in rural western Kansas. Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services is a non-profit organization that helps victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, human trafficking, and teen dating violence. If you need help, call their 24-hour helpline 800-794-4624, text HOPE to 847411
