Act of Hope
A rare shopping experience gives domestic violence survivors a way to celebrate
In celebration of Mother’s Day, InterAct is hosting a private, free shopping event where survivors of domestic violence will have an opportunity to “treat themselves,” a luxury they rarely get to experience. “InterAct hopes to encourage domestic violence survivors to take time to celebrate their success on this very difficult journey – to not just survive, but truly thrive,” says Allison Strickland, Chief Development Officer of InterAct.
Through generous donations by C.T. Weekends and designer Lisette Limoges, between 40 to 60 women will get to choose an outfit by Lisette, receive a mini-makeover provided by Mary Kay cosmetics and meet with career coaches that can offer tips for interview success. Volunteer stylists will be standing by to make sure the experience is a positive one, and InterAct hopes to repeat the event seasonally.
“My priority is to help women,” says Limoges, who has donated about $10,000 in versatile clothing from her collection to the cause. She emphasizes the importance for women to be able to choose what they like so they can feel as if it’s a true shopping experience. “If women get to choose for themselves, they feel good about what they are wearing. If you feel good outside, you feel good inside.”
Limoges’ clothing line, Lisette, is designed for women who are active and can easily address several needs. Plus, the clothes are made to last with comfort and fit in mind. “There’s something for everybody,” she adds.
According to Strickland, an estimated one in three women living in Wake County will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. InterAct is Wake County’s only provider of comprehensive domestic violence and sexual assault services, each year reaching more than 45,000 residents.
“Often, a family arrives with little more than the clothes they are wearing,” says Strickland. “They are walking out of their lives, fleeing violence in the home; the one place that should embody love, caring and support for us all.”
The organization’s goal is to empower victims to build self-sustaining lives by helping with basic and immediate needs as well as long-term challenges such as employment and advancing education or careers.
“An event like this is an opportunity for survivors to celebrate their journey to a life free from abuse and supports InterAct’s vision that every person has the right to be safe and empowered,” adds Strickland.
For more information visit interactofwake.org
