As we approach the season of gratitude, we are so thankful for the community that surrounds us, the survivors who inspire us, and the partners who help us move this work forward every day. Your support has never been more critical—demand for our services has soared in the past three months, just as needed federal funding for all nonprofits has become alarmingly uncertain.
We’re excited to share several updates with you, including our 2025 Pam Graber Legacy Award winner, new faces joining our team, information about the next Certified Advocate Training, and the essential support offered through our Trauma Recovery Clinic and survivor support groups. We’re also reflecting on an inspiring board retreat and the important conversations sparked by a recent media appearance on youth safety and digital risks.
There’s so much happening and so many ways you can get involved! As always, thank you for being a vital part of our community.
With gratitude,
Sharon Walker Epps
CEO, The Rowan Center
Nora Stern to Receive Pam Graber Legacy Award at Gingerbread Houses & Cocktails for a Cause
We’re thrilled to honor Nora Stern—a passionate student leader and advocate—as this year’s Pam Graber Legacy Award recipient!
From launching Learn Before You Leave, a college safety panel for high school students, to co-leading our Student Advisory Board, Nora has shown exceptional dedication to prevention education and survivor advocacy. Her work carries forward Pam Graber’s powerful legacy and inspires a safer future for all.
Join us as we celebrate Nora at Gingerbread Houses & Cocktails for a Cause on Thursday, December 4, at 6 p.m. at the Country Club of Darien!
Tickets and tables are going fast! Reserve yours now at rowancenter.eyeontest.com/gingerbread-2025 >>
Join a Support Group
You’re invited to join one of our free, confidential support groups. Whether you’re a primary or secondary survivor, these groups are safe spaces to connect, heal, and be heard. The Rowan Center offers a men’s group, which is currently expanding, and several options for adult women as well.
Learn more about our ongoing support groups and how to join one at rowancenter.eyeontest.com/support-groups >>
John Breunig: Parents need to talk to kids about porn. “Don’t be afraid to say, ‘This isn’t real.’”
Our CEO, Sharon Walker Epps, recently joined Jamie Manirakiza of PEHT to contribute to a powerful opinion piece by John Breunig at the Stamford Advocate. Together, they spoke candidly about the dangers of online pornography, sextortion, and the urgent need for honest conversations between parents and children.
Read the full article at stamfordadvocate.com/opinion/article/porn-safety-ct-rowan-21034254.php >>
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month. We know that intimate partner violence and sexual violence are deeply connected, but together, we can take steps to prevent both.
The Rowan Center’s Trauma Recovery Clinic provides resources and support to victims and survivors of trauma, including both sexual and domestic violence, offering long-term therapy options through HUSKY Health. Our compassionate team is here to help victims and survivors find safety, healing, and hope.
Connect with our Trauma Recovery Clinic’s intake team now at rowancenter.eyeontest.com/trauma-recovery-clinic >>
You don’t have to face your trauma alone. Reach out today.
Board Retreat
In September, we hosted an off-site retreat for our Board of Directors. It was a valuable opportunity to reconnect, reflect on important metrics from the last few months, and plan for the year ahead. We’re grateful for our entire team’s continued leadership and renewed commitment to guiding our work forward!
Upcoming Crisis Advocate Training
At The Rowan Center, our Certified Advocates provide essential support to survivors of sexual violence on the hotline, in hospitals, at police stations, and in courtrooms. And when a volunteer takes a shift or a hospital call, it allows our team to educate, counsel, and rest!
Our next Certified Advocate Training starts January 6, and we’d love for you to be part of this caring community. The training includes:
- One weekly class every Wednesday, 5:30–8:30 p.m., for six weeks, beginning January 6
- Weekly asynchronous modules that include recordings, readings, and assignments
- Practice mock calls
Learn more and sign up now at rowancenter.eyeontest.com/get-involved/volunteer >>
Connecticut Attorneys: Your Expertise Can Change a Life
Are you a licensed attorney in Connecticut with a heart for justice and healing? We’re urgently seeking pro bono legal support for survivors of sexual violence who lack access to the legal support they need.
When attorneys step up, it transforms the lives of our clients and helps them move forward with dignity and power. We’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact legal advocacy can have on a survivor’s healing journey.
If you’re willing to donate your time and expertise, or if you have questions about getting involved, please contact Sharon Walker Epps at swalkerepps@therowancenter.org.
Welcome, New Faces of The Rowan Center!
We’re excited to introduce some of the newest members of The Rowan Center team! Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Leonora Campbell, Director of Education and Outreach; Anthony Guerrero, Prevention Educator – KidSafeHQ; and Charlotte Gaston, Community Educator and Advocate.
Their dedication and passion for prevention, outreach, safety, and advocacy are a perfect match for our mission. With the support of Anthony, Leonora, and Charlotte, we’re looking forward to strengthening our prevention programs, launching KidSafeHQ, and expanding our impact in the community.
We’re also thrilled to have four incredible interns joining us this season—two supporting our crisis counseling team and two contributing to the vital work of our Trauma Recovery Clinic.