So Others May Have / GIFTING TO: PANDORA'S Project (DAY 2)

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Peeps,

Lately, we've heard a great deal about the alleged activities of a certain assistant-coach at Penn State University.  As more details emerge, it becomes shockingly clear that the sexual abuse of minors occurred over a prolonged period, and a systematic cover-up of these violations by other coaches, the athletics department, and school administrators created an environment where the perpetrator was able to exploit other victims without any fear of being fired, or reported to the police.  Numerous individuals have stepped forward to recount their experiences, as they attempt to deal with the physical, emotional, and psychological scars of the incident(s).  Others have not been able to take this step towards healing, and instead live in fear of repercussion, or remain silent out of a sense of shame, or feelings of guilt.  Professionals in the mental health service(s) are well acquainted with persons who suffer from flashbacks, isolation, depression, and PTSD; self-injury and self-harm; eating disorders; the inability to form or maintain nurturing relationships, and issues surrounding sex & intimacy.  Many persons, especially children, drop out of school, run away from homes, and become easy targets for gangs, pimping and prostitution.  They are more likely to engage in recreational drug use and subsequently, addictions to various substances, and experience higher rates of STD's, alcoholism, and suicidal tendencies (or commit suicide).

Luckily for some, there is Pandora's Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support, information, and resources to survivors of sexual abuse and rape. Victims of rape/sexual assault/sexual abuse receive peer support through an online support group called Pandora's Aquarium where they can connect with other survivors in the process of healing.  The online support group includes a message board, chat room and blogs.  The online support group is confidential, and moderated by peers.  Additionally, a free lending library, resource materials, and counseling services are available.  The organization states that, " If you have been a victim of stranger rape, acquaintance or date rape, molestation, incest, childhood sexual abuse, partner or marital rape, gang rape, or any type of sexual assault, you are welcome here as you recover and reclaim your life . . . The rape and sexual abuse online support group has specific forums for men and women, teens and older survivors, LGBTQ rape and sexual abuse survivors, and friends and family of survivors . . . support for issues common in healing after rape/sexual assault/sexual abuse: spirituality; pregnancy and parenting; and legal concerns. "

As part of this season's giving, please consider a donation to Pandora's Project.  Visit their site at www.pandys.org to see how you can help or contribute to helping others less fortunate than ourselves....

Sincerely,
Shane