H-E-A-R-T promotes victim empowerment and encourages the public to have a greater understanding of and respect for sexual assault victims.

For counseling call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE.

Hope After Trauma

The mission of H-E-A-R-T (Hope Exists After Rape Trauma) is to provide HOPE for victims of sexual assault through the provision of essential and therapeutic support, by affecting positive change in laws influencing their lives, and by educating both the public and professionals commissioned to serve victims.

A vital issue in this matter involves the use of DNA. To enhance that use, H-E-A-R-T will promote the continued use of DNA, and through educating legislators, law enforcement officials, and others, promote its expanded use and continued improvement.

The Debbie Smith Act

Because of the suffering Debbie and countless other victims of sexual assault have faced, legislation has been passed to improve investigations and services for this crime.

The Debbie Smith Act, now part of the Justice For All Act of 2004, was signed into law on October 30, 2004.

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Retreats

H-E-A-R-T’s Victim To Victim Retreats have become one of the core programs of the organization. Several years ago Debbie Smith was led to plan and offer retreats for victims of sexual assault to encourage them on their path to healing and to speak out about their experiences, ultimately to help other victims.

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Fundraisers

The annual H-E-A-R-T fundraiser has become our main way of raising funds to continue this work. We also offer jewelry and notecards through the H-E-A-R-T store.

It’s through the generosity of our donors that we are able to continue fighting for change and assisting victims.

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Upcoming Retreat

Our next Victim to Victim Retreat will be held March 29 – April 2, 2025 in Corolla, NC. There is NO charge to attend

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to email at [email protected] or call 757-220-6759.

* Participants in the retreat must have the recommendation of their counselor, mentor, pastor, etc., to attend the retreat. There will be two to three coaches there to work with attendees daily to process the teaching, process journal writing activities, and to follow up with them on a regular basis after the initial phase of the retreat.

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Get Involved

There are many ways to partner with H-E-A-R-T. We love working together with our community to raise awareness, help victims, and push for change locally and nationally.

If you’d like to make a donation to H-E-A-R-T, you can do so here. (We are a registered 501(c)(3).) If you’d like to get involved in fundraising efforts, or have questions about the organization please feel free to contact us today!