News Photo by Darby Hinkley Hope Shores Alliance staff members gather with resources on Thursday morning at their office in Alpena. A variety of activities and programs are planned in April, which is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, including decorating tiny pairs of jeans to be displayed on April 30 during HSA’s SAAM Vigil at Alpena Community College. Pictured, from left, are Tressa Snider, advocacy services manager, Adrianna Gumtow, community response manager, Jeanine Kaltz, prevention and outreach coordinator, and Michelle Styma, associate director.

ALPENA — Hope Shores Alliance (HSA) invites the public to join them this April in bringing awareness to Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) through a variety of programs and resources.

“This annual campaign aims to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it,” a press release from HSA stated.

This year’s theme, “Together We Act, United We Change,” emphasizes the power of collective action in creating a safer future for all. Throughout the month, Hope Shores Alliance will host a series of events and activities designed to engage the community, promote education, prevention, and support for survivors.

“It’s important for survivors to know that there is community surrounding them, and that there is a free place that they can go to for confidential services — Hope Shores Alliance — and that we believe, support, and validate all survivors,” said Jeanine Kaltz, HSA prevention and outreach coordinator. “Every last bit of shame belongs to perpetrators, never survivors.”

She said the whole community can help prevent violence by listening, learning, and helping where they can.

“If we’re truly going to prevent violence, then it has to be a community approach,” Kaltz said. “We have to educate ourselves. We have to make sure that everybody understands consent. We have to make sure that people have safe housing, access to child care, and April is a great month to remind folks that we are Hope Shores Alliance, we are here, and we need the community to help us end domestic violence and sexual violence.”

HSA Outreach and Services Manager Tressa Snider spoke to the importance of the campaign and Hope Shores Alliance’s role within the communities HSA serves through hosting these events.

She said that these events “not only provide an opportunity for individuals to express solidarity with survivors but also serve as a powerful reminder of the need to foster safer communities.”

By hosting these decorating sessions, Hope Shores is helping to raise awareness, spark meaningful conversations, and encourage action toward preventing sexual assault.

“These events reflect Hope Shores’ ongoing commitment to empowering community members, creating positive change, and providing critical support for survivors of sexual assault,” Snider added.

“Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an important opportunity to shine a light on the ongoing need for support and advocacy for survivors,” said Ashley Anderson, HSA outreach and services advocate. “At Hope Shores Alliance, we are committed to creating a community where survivors are heard, validated, and empowered. Through education, community partnerships, and accessible services, we strive to provide hope and healing to all who need it.”

Events and activities include:

¯ Denim Day workshops in Alpena: Decorating tiny pairs of jeans for Denim Day can be a fun and meaningful way to show support and raise awareness. Decorating times include 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, and 30 at Besser Technical Center at Alpena Community College, and 5:30 to 7 p.m. on April 23 at Alpena Count Library. These jeans will be displayed on April 30 during HSA’s SAAM Vigil at Alpena Community College.

¯ Lip Sinc Battle: Join HSA at 7 p.m. on April 25 at PIF Cider for a night of friendly competition to see who can sync up to your favorite songs the best. PIF Cider is also graciously accepting donations for HSA during the month of April. These items will be used for survivors in our community to help on the journey to healing.

¯ Candlelight Vigil on April 30 (6 p.m. tentative time) at Alpena Community College: The vigil includes moments of silence, speeches from advocates and survivors, sound bath, and the lighting of candles to symbolize hope and resilience. It’s an opportunity for the community to come together, show support, and commit to preventing sexual violence and supporting those affected by it. Event registration is not required. There is no cost to attend. Some educational content related to sexual violence may be triggering or upsetting to some viewers.

For any additional accommodation needs or further questions, visit the Hope Shores Alliance Facebook page or contact Snider at tsnider@hopeshores.org.

Kaltz said HSA works with all survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence, not just women. Anyone experiencing abuse or violence is encouraged to reach out to Hope Shores Alliance. If you need immediate help, call the Michigan Domestic Violence hotline at 1-866-VOICEDV.

“Domestic violence causes significant and long-lasting trauma to countless individuals and families,” the Michigan Domestic Violence website explains. “Abusers use a pattern of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, and/or economic manipulation and control over their intimate partners to violate their dignity, security, and wellbeing. Survivors of domestic violence are present in every Michigan community, regardless of sexual orientation, race, religion, ability, age, and gender identity.”

Kaltz explained that many perpetrators prey on those they think are vulnerable, and they often use gaslighting and manipulation to gain power and control.

She added that domestic violence cases increased during the COVID pandemic, as many people were isolated at home with their abusers.

“Statistical studies show that the more folks lose hope, the more we see incidences of violence,” Kaltz added. “I think a lot of people in our community are feeling very concerned financially. The more folks are struggling, the more we are seeing that.”

Reach Darby Hinkley at 989-358-5691 or dhinkley@thealpenanews.com.