Though Copper Shores Community Health Foundation has dedicated staff that work year round to support victims of sexual assault, April is a special opportunity to shed light on the issue and the resources that are put in place to help those who have been affected. The entire month of April is nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Copper Shores takes part by putting on the Puppy Parade.
This video is from the third annual Puppy Parade, which took place on April 26, 2023 in Hancock, Michigan.
Talking about sexual assault, reaching out for support and going through the healing process is often incredibly difficult – leaving victims feelings isolated and hopeless. The Puppy Parade is a great opportunity for both victims and supporters to come together in solidarity with the added bonus of having dogs around.
Our furry friends are both comforting in private times of need, as well as a great reason to come together in support of a common goal. To help raise awareness for sexual assault and the community resources that are available for victims in the area, community members are invited to bring their dogs out for some exercise and a group walk.
The event brings attention to the commonality of the struggles faced by Copper Country residents. Victims have an opportunity to see that there are other members of the community who support them and their healing journeys, and some that may have even gone through something similar. When people know that they are not alone in their struggles, they may be more inclined to seek support.
The Puppy Parade brings together all walks of life from the community. Police officers, Victim Advocates, community leaders, your neighbors and their dogs are working to make a difference, helping victims through every step of their healing process.
Learn more about Copper Shores and its services to help our community at coppershores.org.
