Story by Alexis Schindler, Staff writer 

The Purchase Area Sexual Assault and Child Advocacy Center is holding its second annual Open House Nov. 16.

“PASAC works across western Kentucky, bringing hope to all-age survivors of sexual abuse and children suffering from abuse/neglect,” Megan Counce, account manager of PASAC, said.

PASAC provides victims of sexual abuse or child abuse/neglect intervention services such as a 24-hour crisis response line, victim medical and legal advocacy services, clinical services, forensic services and prevention education services.

PASAC has been in the process of renovating its Holistic Healing Center and Expressive Therapy Center. The organization’s hope is to have the renovations done in time to showcase to the public at the Open House event.

“We really just want to use the open house as a time to engage and connect with those in the community, appreciate our supporters and reach out to new people who might find a way to get involved,” Amberly Walker, community engagement and development director at PASAC, said.

Murray State students can get involved with the organization in several ways.

PASAC offers volunteer opportunities for students and others in the community and gives people the ability to give to the organization to support their endeavors.

Amanda Surmeier, senior from Mascoutah, Illinois, has volunteered for PASAC in the past.

“I started volunteering with PASAC in 2016 when I came into office as the Panhellenic VP of Community Service and Philanthropy,” Surmeier said. “At the time, the philanthropy we supported was one where we could not directly see change happening in our community. After receiving an alarming amount of timely-warning emails regarding sexual assaults on campus, I decided that changing the philanthropy to a sexual assault center would both raise awareness of the assaults on campus and in return, donate to the care of
those assaulted.”

At the event, attendees can expect live music, food, drink and the chance to connect with the staff, volunteers and board members of PASAC.

For more information on future PASAC events, how you can get involved, donate or receive help visit PASAC’S website.