Special Speaker: Lisa Blanchard, Founder and Executive Director of the Grateful Garment Project
On Thursday night, April 22nd, we gathered via zoom to hear from Lisa Blanchard, the founder and Executive Director of the Grateful Garment Project (TGGP), a non-profit organization that provides victims of sexual violence the clothing and other resources they need to reclaim their dignity and begin the healing process. The group works with hospitals, shelters, law enforcement and other nonprofits to meet victims’ immediate needs after a crisis, and support their ongoing needs along their road to recovery.
Lisa presented us with some shocking and uncomfortable statics about sexual assault and the ongoing demand for support services, and informed us about opportunities where we as a group and as individuals can make a positive impact, including volunteer work and additional donation needs. The questions and conversation that followed her presentation were insightful and introspective, and indicative of a desire to continue to support TGGP in its efforts.
One project that Lisa educated us about is called Operation Esteem, one of TGGP's newest programs that focuses on the emotional and physical health of youth. Through Operation Esteem young people ages 12-24 who have experienced sexual violence are offered gift cards of $5 to $10 at various restaurants and appealing retailers as an incentive to follow up with medical and counseling appointments.
These appointments, which can involve medical treatments, STD testing, therapy, and counseling are crucial in combatting the effects of trauma, ensuring the process of healing is guided by professionals, and facilitating the restoration of dignity. In a pilot program in three local counties, Lisa reported that unaccompanied minors who returned for follow-up services jumped from 32% to 87% when offered a small incentive of a $5 gift card. Find out more at www.operationesteem.org.
Additionally she informed us of a TGGP program called Amplifying Dignity where people can meaningfully contribute virtually. Upon registration, volunteers select three volunteer activities of their choosing to complete over a 30-day period, including reposting social media alerts.
The program was developed specifically as an opportunity for young people who need service hours for high school or college programs by offering ten verified service hours upon completion of each 3-activity/30-day period, but this virtual volunteering program is open to anyone seeking to make a difference. Find out more at gratefulgarment.org/amplifyingdignity.