Aurora Health Care has been a leader in caring for survivors of sexual and domestic violence for more than 35 years. Services began at the Aurora Healing Center and have expanded to Aurora Healing & Advocacy Services and Aurora hospitals throughout Wisconsin. Programs are supported by government and foundation grants, individual gifts and event proceeds. All services are provided at no cost to clients.
“The idea of Hope Shining Blue began at the Aurora Healing Center,” explained Sharain Horn, Vice President of Well Community at Aurora Health Care. “We wanted to raise funds to support the Center’s programs, while also celebrating survivors and allowing them to showcase and express themselves.”
In its first year, Hope Shining Blue was a small event at the Garage at the Harley Davidson Museum.
“The event has always been held in a unique venue,” shared David Caruso, president of Dynamic Events, which has sponsored and produced Hope Shining Blue since it started. “After the first couple of years, we had to move to Turner Hall to accommodate more people. The event has continued to grow over the years and is now held at Eagles Ballroom.”
Over the last decade, Hope Shining Blue has raised more than $1M and helped Aurora Healing & Advocacy Services care for more than 10,000 survivors. The event coincides with Denim Day, which brings international attention to the impact of sexual violence. The atmosphere is casual, and the evening includes high-energy music, food stations and a one-of-a-kind, inspirational runway fashion show featuring survivors who share their stories.
“What we realized early on it was that it’s transformative for both survivors and attendees. You see how the models go from being nervous at the beginning of the evening to walking the runway in front of a crowd that’s celebrating them, supporting them, cheering them on and giving them high fives,” said Sharain. “As tragic as sexual and domestic violence is, this event is a reminder that survivors do heal and can come out of their experiences better and stronger. It’s very emotional for everyone; there are times when there’s not a dry eye in the room.”
“I’ve produced a lot of events for many non-profit organizations, and Hope Shining Blue is very unique,” added David. “The difference is the immediate impact on survivors, their families, and their friends and colleagues. As co-host of the event, I have a unique vantage point. I see the models when they begin their walk and when they return. They transform right in front of you. It’s incredible.”
The 10th-anniversary event, held on April 26, included past survivors returning to the runway. In addition to the fashion show, two awards were presented. Nancy Yarbrough received the Hope Shining Award.
“Nancy has been a leader in the Milwaukee community for over 20 years, doing issues-based education and advocacy, with an emphasis on human trafficking. It was the first time we talked about trafficking as part of the event. We know Milwaukee is a gateway, and we need to help trafficking victims too,” said Sharain. “Candace Sanchez received the Thrive Award. She’s a survivor and servant leader who views giving back as an important part of her own healing journey. She is an author, life coach, motivational speaker, and podcast host.”
Because of Hope Shining Blue and the generosity of donors and sponsors over the years, Aurora Health Care has been able to expand programs and services aimed at helping survivors of sexual and domestic violence.
“People want to invest in our programs. Every year, we fund a meaningful cause, such as emergency services or expanding our hotline to include text messages,” explained Sharain. “It is phenomenal to see how we’ve grown and how generous people can be.”
“It’s an easy cause to get behind,” added David. “I don’t have any personal experience with the Healing Center or sexual violence in general, but I’m inspired to give just by witnessing how Aurora has helped survivors heal. There have been so many ways donors have made an impact – it’s made a huge difference.”
Get involved
Proceeds from Hope Shining Blue benefit free, confidential services for survivors provided by Aurora Healing & Advocacy Services and at Aurora hospitals throughout Wisconsin.
“I have such gratitude for all the love and support you showed me. Hope Shining Blue really changed my life,” said Yuliana, a 2022 survivor model. “Now I have so much love to pass forward. Thank you.”
Donate to make a difference in the lives of survivors and help them thrive.
If you are experiencing abuse and need immediate assistance, call the Aurora Healing Center Hotline at 414-219-5555 or text 414-219-1551. Team members are available 24/7 to help.