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KERRY Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre (KRSAC) will mark its 30th anniversary with a candlelight walk in Tralee next Friday.
Beginning at 6pm from the Denny Street entrance to Tralee Town Park, the walk go through the Park followed by refreshments, music and speeches in the Kerry Diocesan Youth Centre in Tralee.
In early 1992 a group of committed individuals opened the Centre to provide professional counselling, advocacy and support services to all survivors of sexual violence.
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“This was the first-time survivors of sexual violence in Kerry had an opportunity to avail of a safe, compassionate counselling and support service,” said Vera O’Leary, Manager of the Centre.
“The Centre was and remains unique, we are the only specialised free professional service for sexual violence in Kerry.
We are committed to healing the hurt of rape and sexual abuse. Our aim is to offer a safe and confidential space where survivors/victims of all ages can be listened to and supported without shame or self-blame.
We provide experienced professional counselling and supports to anyone who has experienced any sexually abusive incident at any time in their lives. This could be a recent or past experience of sexual abuse.”
Vera said that they are constantly evaluating service provision whilst engaging with survivors on how service levels can be augmented and improved.
“The Centre is a space where you hear different voices, the funders, board of directors, staff and volunteers who have helped the Centre grow over the past 30 years,” she added.
“The supporters, allies, organisations and the clients who use our services and share their stories. They have all shaped the Centre. We are so grateful to all the clients who over the years have trusted us with their stories, it is humbling to work with each and every one of them and joyous to witness the healing and hope.”
