Mrs. New Castle County volunteers for SOAR's 20th Anniversary Event

I volunteered at SOAR's (Survivors of Abuse in Recovery) 20th anniversary, held at the Queen Theatre in Wilmington, Delaware.  SOAR is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing professional mental health services to victims of sexual trauma regardless of ability to pay. A leader in the field, SOAR also provides advocacy, education and professional development.

I was very excited and honored to be part of SOAR’s “Celebrating 20 years of Healing” event. I greeted guests as they arrived and handed them program books. Everyone was so nice and appreciative and I had an opportunity to talk to several people about my platform “Stay Aware, Stay Safe”. The evening started off with food stations, including a sliders station, an Italian station, and an Asian station. The food was delicious!

Handing out program books to the guests

SOAR's 20th Anniversary Program Books

Picture with a guest

There were several guest speakers, including the individuals that started SOAR. A very touching moment was when one of the speakers talked about her own personal journey of healing from trauma. She talked about how Miss America 1958, Marilyn Van Derbur disclosed in People magazine that she endured years of violation from a family member. The speaker talked about how Marilyn’s story encouraged her to seek help and SOAR was the organization that provided her treatment. It was amazing to see all the clinicians, staff, volunteer members, and outside community come together for one event to benefit an organization that started off so small. SOAR now provides services to more than 1000 adults, adolescents, children, and their families residing in Delaware and the surrounding counties in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland on an annual basis.

After the guest speakers, the night opened up to dancing and a fantastic silent and live auction. The auction was amazing and included great items including Madonna tickets, unique artwork, and relaxing spa services. The night also included a Buddy Holly tribute, with a live band!

The Queen Theatre in Wilmington, Delaware

20th Anniversary Cake

One of the many silent auction tables

With one of the raffle items

Buddy Holly Tribute Band

I had a great opportunity to meet board and staff members of SOAR, volunteers, and community members and talk about my platform and experiences as Mrs. New Castle County United States. Thank you SOAR for the opportunity, what a great way to end April's awareness month!

Until next time,

Melissa Kirk

Your Mrs. New Castle County United States 2012