H.O.P.E Agency battling violence with knowledge

The H.O.P.E. Agency has begun an all out battle against sexual assault. With any victory in battle, knowledge is power and can often dictate the victor. The H.O.P.E. Agency is working hard to educated people to help prevent sexual assault.

Working from a three year grant, the H.O.P.E. Agency in a tri-county collaboration with Hot Springs, Big Horn and Washakie Counties, are working together to stop sexual assault. They are educating young teens to recognize a bad situation that could lead to an assault, but also empowering them to report an assault, wanting to end sexual assault in the lifetime of the current teen generation.

The education has started with getting out in the community, visiting the schools and having a positive presence. Jane Norskog, the Victim Advocate for the H.O.P.E. Agency, explained that “We want to erase the stigma of the H.O.P.E. agency, we are here for the community.” According to Norskog, many people are unaware of what agency is or what they do.

There is a “Be the Solution Pledge” that can be filled out at the H.O.P.E. Agency. The pledge states that you are willing to “Learn About It, Talk About It and Change It” to help prevent sexual assault. Every person who commits to the pledge will receive an orange and black “Bobcat, Be the Solution” mug. The mug can be taken to several local businesses to receive a discount on a beverage.

For more information about the H.O.P.E. Agency or the Be the Solution pledge call 864-4673