Sanctuary Inc. Leads April Awareness Efforts for Sexual Assault Survivors

Nonprofit organization hosts events across western Kentucky to educate public and support victims

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:36am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a person's hands holding a teal ribbon, with soft, warm pools of light and color in the background, conveying a sense of contemplation and care around the issue of sexual assault.A thoughtful moment of reflection on the importance of supporting survivors and promoting awareness around sexual violence in the community.Madisonville Today

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, Sanctuary Inc., a sexual assault resource center serving the Pennyrile region of Kentucky, has been running a series of events aimed at educating the public, supporting survivors, and promoting prevention. The organization's April programming includes a 'What Were You Wearing?' exhibit, documentary screenings, community runs, and a keynote event featuring national advocate Elizabeth Smart.

Why it matters

Sexual assault remains a pervasive issue that impacts individuals, families, and communities. Sanctuary's awareness efforts are designed to challenge misconceptions, reduce stigma, and equip the public with resources to support survivors and prevent future violence.

The details

Sanctuary Inc.'s April programming includes the 'What Were You Wearing?' exhibit, which features recreated outfits worn by survivors at the time of their assault to challenge the notion that clothing implies consent. The organization is also hosting screenings of the documentary 'To Kill a Tiger,' which focuses on a survivor's pursuit of justice and the role communities can play in addressing violence. Other events include Wear Teal Day, the Thin Blue Run, Chalk the Walk, and Denim Day, all of which are part of national campaigns to raise awareness and support for sexual assault prevention.

  • The 'What Were You Wearing?' exhibit will be on display from April 13-17 at Hopkinsville Community College and Madisonville Community College.
  • The documentary 'To Kill a Tiger' will be screened on April 14 in Madisonville and April 16 in Hopkinsville.
  • Wear Teal Day was observed on April 1.
  • The Thin Blue Run will take place on April 18 in Hopkinsville.
  • Chalk the Walk will run from April 20-24.

The players

Sanctuary Inc.

A sexual assault resource center serving the Pennyrile region of Kentucky, providing confidential services including crisis intervention, advocacy, and education.

Heather Lancaster

The Executive Director of Sanctuary Inc.

Elizabeth Smart

A survivor and national advocate who will be the keynote speaker at Sanctuary's April 30 event.

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What they’re saying

“This affects more people than we know. We want people to feel supported and know there is a place they can come to for healing.”

— Heather Lancaster, Executive Director, Sanctuary Inc.

“Awareness leads to action. If people understand what sexual assault is, how it impacts individuals and families, and how to respond, they can help create safer communities.”

— Heather Lancaster, Executive Director, Sanctuary Inc.

What’s next

The month's events will conclude on April 30 with a keynote event featuring survivor and national advocate Elizabeth Smart at the Bruce Convention Center in Hopkinsville.

The takeaway

Sanctuary's awareness efforts demonstrate the importance of community involvement in supporting survivors and preventing sexual violence. By educating the public, challenging misconceptions, and providing resources, the organization aims to foster a culture of accountability and support.