We are happy to announce that we now have dates for the Spring and Fall retreats in 2021. Our 2021 Spring V2V Retreat will be held in Branson, Missouri this year through a partnership with Live 2 Give Hope! Please visit https://live2givehope.org/heart/ for more information. This retreat will be held at Table Rock Lake March 3-7 (5 days and 4 nights).

We are also accepting applications to the Fall Retreat in Corolla, NC November 3-7, 2021.

There is NO charge to attend either retreat. However, we will need an application completed and a referral from either your counselor, therapist, mentor, pastor, etc. stating that they feel you are mentally and emotionally able to attend the retreat. We also require a FULLY REFUNDABLE $100 deposit to hold your spot at the retreat. The deposit is returned to you on the last day of the retreat before you leave.

 

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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.

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

On March 3, 1989, Debbie Smith was kidnapped from her home while her husband, a police officer, was sleeping upstairs. She was dragged into the woods behind her Williamsburg, Virginia home and raped. The rapist threatened Debbie not to tell, and reminded her that he knew where she lived. Bravely, Debbie went forward and told her husband Robert of the assault. The rape was officially reported and she consented to a forensic exam.
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