On average, 24 people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by a partner — that’s more than 12 million women and men in the course of one year. 1 in 4 victims will be women. 1 in 7 will be men. The average age of domestic violence occurs between the age of 18-24. Horrifying.
In State College, the Centre County Women’s Resource Center is an environment of support and encouragement for women who are going through struggles of any kind but specifically, they focus their energy on domestic and sexual violence cases in Centre County.
In 2014, the Penn State chapter of Sisters on the Runway was founded by students Layla Taremi and Lauren Shearer. It is a student-run organization committed to the same causes of the CCWRC. To raise awareness and funds for this cause, the group will host the third annual Sisters on the Runway benefit fashion show on April 25 at 7 p.m.
The mission of Sisters on the Runway is to prevent and raise awareness of domestic violence. SOTR is a national organization founded in 2005 by three high school students in Montclair, New Jersey. Since its foundation, SOTR has spread its message to high schools and college campuses, raising over $80,000 to aid the fight against domestic violence.
When asked what her favorite part of Sisters on the Runway is, Taremi answered, “…seeing how our work, efforts, and passion truly makes a difference in the lives of women and children here in State College. I have communicated with victims of domestic violence who have used the Centre County Women’s Resource Center for their own needs, and realize the impact SOTR makes for them.”
Opening acts for the event will include Reve Dance Company, Bryan Sharkey singing, Nicole Schaefer Music, Penn State’s Slam Poetry Group, and a duet from Matt Callen and Jessica Sallurday.
“Every year, this event brings tears to my eyes. Not only is this the largest event of the year, bringing in the majority of our yearly proceeds, but it brings together so many students eager to fight against this issue,” says Taremi
Come for the fashion show but stay for a night of music, stories, and giveaways. For any questions feel free to contact Nicole Keller at 724-961-2077 or at nkeller1010@gmail.com. You can also let the group know you’re going on Facebook.
The event at a glance:
When? Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Where? Alumni Hall, HUB, Penn State University
Time? 7:00pm
Admission: $10/Student Ticket, $15/Adult Ticket
