Spring fashion show celebrates the many ways survivors Prevail

A record number of more than 400 guests attended the Prevail Spring Fashion Show on May 2. The annual event raises money for Prevail, Inc. and awareness about the need to help victims of abusive crimes, particularly domestic violence and sexual assault.

With a goal to disrupt the violence, Prevail began 38 years ago in Hamilton County and provides comprehensive victim advocacy support to survivors throughout their journeys. Prevail’s services are offered free of charge and are always completely confidential.

“Our goal is safety first always,” Prevail Executive Director Tami Wanninger said.

Guests Rona Ash, left, and Wallapa Guinn enjoy lunch prior to the fashion show. (Reporter photo by Amy Adams)

According to statistics given at the fashion show, domestic violence represents 20 percent of all violent crimes, with one-third of women murdered having been in an abusive relationship and 45 percent of all women becoming victims at some point in their lives. Of domestic violence victims, 19 percent are children under age 18, which represents one in four girls and one in six boys.

Wanninger said that Prevail helped around 3,100 local victims in the past year, including aiding 100 survivors in finding safety and stable housing to avoid homelessness. They provided safe housing for 102 families. In addition, every seventh through 12th grader in Hamilton County schools received information about how to handle relationships responsibly.

Bracelets with the theme for the event, “Strength,” were available for purchase with all proceeds going to Prevail. (Reporter photo by Shana Sloma)

Wanninger, who has been leading the organization for almost a year, shared that a new strategic plan is in the works through a matching grant from the Hamilton County Community Foundation and TCC Gives. Additionally, through a partnership with the Hamilton County Health Department they are expanding their Prevention Program in Hamilton County Schools.

“Tami leads with strength, passion, and tireless energy,” said Esther Lakes, event emcee and Prevail board member.

Dr. Aletta Sanders served as the event speaker. She spoke to the audience about the different type of domestic abuse and their ongoing impact on survivors long after the abuse has ended.

Each year, Prevail leaders ask the chosen speaker to choose a word that best describes their work to heal from abuse. Sanders chose “strength,” which was the theme throughout her speech. Sanders told The Reporter she believes it takes strength to stay in a relationship, it takes strength to leave an abusive one, and it takes strength to heal.