BETHEL – A celebration of health, healing and recovery took place on May 4 as the Rape Education and Crisis Hotline (R.E.A.C.H.) held its fifth annual Spring Benefit at the Bethel Inn and Country Club.

The theme of the fashion show was “Celebrating the Human Form.” R.E.A.C.H. selected this theme as part of its ongoing commitment to exemplify life-affirming action in the face of the devasting effect of all types of sexual violence on male and female victims and survivors, and on their families and communities. The benefit was intended as a celebration of life, health and healing and a bold statement about claiming these in the aftermath of sexual violence.

Continuing with this spirit of celebration, the second annual Make A Difference awards were given out at the event. Recipients this year were Ellen Crosby and Joshua Chessman, who symbolize those who began the struggle to end sexual violence and those who help to keep it going.

Crosby was one of the founders of R.E.A.C.H. As a concerned citizen and professional alarmed by the increase in sexual assaults, she gave of herself to help give life to the cause. She continues her dedication to the organization by providing clinical supervision and consultation to staff members and advocates who provide direct support.

Chessman has been volunteering and contributing time, knowledge and skills to the organization for two years. He takes initiative to assist in many aspects of our work.

The Rape Education and Crisis Hotline is the sexual assault crisis and support center serving Oxford County and the towns of Bridgton and Harrison. R.E.A.C.H. has been providing support and advocacy for victims and survivors of sexual assault, sexual abuse and sexual harassment since 1982. The nonprofit organization is partially funded by the Maine Departments of Human Services and Behavioral and Developmental Services, United Way of Oxford County and private donations.

If you are interested in volunteering as a hot line advocate or becoming a member of the R.E.A.C.H. Board of Directors to further assist in assuring that support and advocacy is always available for victims and survivors of sexual violence, call the R.E.A.C.H. office at 743-9777.