The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC), a leading advocate and support provider for survivors of sexual violence, is thrilled to announce the commemoration of its 50th anniversary, honoring the volunteers who initiated and continue to support the organization’s mission to end sexual violence through healing, empowerment, and social change. Since its inception in 1973, BARCC has been dedicated to providing a safe haven and comprehensive support for survivors of sexual violence. This milestone event not only commemorated half a century of unwavering commitment to survivors but also served as a spark of continued inspiration and momentum in the movement to end sexual violence.

BARCC’s Leap into Our Future: 50th Anniversary Gratitude Event took place on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at the Artists for Humanity Epicenter in South Boston. This poignant occasion recognized and honored the invaluable contributions of the volunteers who pioneered the establishment of BARCC, and recognized those who continue this critical work today. From providing crisis intervention services like medical advocacy and 24/7 hotline support, to leading prevention and education efforts, to advocating for survivor-centric policy reforms, volunteers have been instrumental in shaping BARCC’s trajectory and fostering a community of resilience and healing.

“We are immensely proud to celebrate this significant milestone in our organization’s history,” said Isa Woldeguiorguis, Executive Director of BARCC. “The 50th Anniversary Gratitude Event is a testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism and collective action in our community. We owe a debt of gratitude to the founding volunteers whose courage and compassion continue to inspire us as we strive to create a world free from sexual violence.”

Those who have made a significant impact through their volunteer roles at BARCC were also honored on this special occasion. Sindhu Rayapaneni was awarded the Melissa Gosule Award for Medical Advocacy, in recognition of her exemplary dedication and compassion in supporting survivors in the emergency room, taking on peer supervision roles, and mentoring new volunteers. Kevin O’Donnell was awarded the Janet Yassen Award for his leadership role with the Survivor Speakers Bureau, driving education and prevention efforts through sharing his story as a survivor.  Lottie Hedden was awarded the Lois Glass Award for Hotline Counseling, for her unwavering commitment to survivors who call BARCC’s 24/7 hotline and for her exceptional service as a peer leader. Danielle Renzi was awarded the Lois Glass Award for Web Chat Counseling for her longstanding role as a web chat counselor and mentor of new volunteers. Michael Van Korff was awarded the inaugural Dave Rini Award for Incarcerated Survivor Support as he has been an integral part of the success of BARCC’s hotline for incarcerated survivors.

BARCC was proud to partner with Artists for Humanity in developing custom artwork for the event. View the photo album here.

BARCC services remain available for all survivors, especially in the face of current events. International, national, and local headlines continue to show how sexual violence is used as a tool of oppression, control, and abuse.  The organization remains committed violence prevention, community outreach, and education efforts, including the Healthy Youth Act, legislation requiring that school districts that offer sex education provide a curriculum that is age-appropriate, medically accurate, consent-informed, and LGBTQ-inclusive. In partnership with Jane Doe, Inc., BARCC is poised to launch legislative advocacy efforts in favor of the VOCA Bridge which will provide critical resources to service providers across the state.

If you or someone you know is a survivor who needs support, please call our 24/7 hotline at 800-841-8371 or chat online at barcc.org/chat from 9:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

50th Anniversary Art - Before50th Anniversary Art - After

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