Local Nonprofit Founder Raises Awareness on Sexual Assault in North Carolina

Missy Bennett of Operation Pretty Things provides support and resources for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:04am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph showing a woman's hands cradling a bouquet of flowers, the image blurred and softened through a hazy, rain-streaked lens to convey a sense of tenderness, vulnerability, and resilience.Nonprofit founder Missy Bennett offers emotional support and practical resources to help sexual assault survivors reclaim their power and find hope.Wilmington Today

Missy Bennett, the founder of the nonprofit Operation Pretty Things, is calling attention to the alarming rise in sexual assault and domestic violence cases in North Carolina. Bennett's organization offers free hair, makeup, and clothing services to help victims feel empowered when attending court proceedings, as well as emotional support throughout the legal process. Operation Pretty Things also works to educate young girls about the signs of abuse through gift box programs.

Why it matters

Sexual assault and domestic violence are serious issues that affect many women in North Carolina, with one in five experiencing sexual assault and over 40% experiencing domestic violence. Bennett's nonprofit is one of the few organizations in the country providing comprehensive support services to help victims navigate the legal system and find a path forward.

The details

According to Bennett, the statistics on sexual assault and domestic violence in North Carolina are staggering. While the previous statistic was one in three women being victims of domestic violence, a recent survey found that number has now risen to 41%. Additionally, Bennett shared that 51% of sexual assault cases involve intimate partner relationships, and 49% involve acquaintances, leaving little room for stranger attacks. Operation Pretty Things aims to support victims through every step of the legal process, from providing free hair, makeup, and clothing services to sitting with them in the courtroom.

  • April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month across the country.
  • Operation Pretty Things is holding its third annual Boss of the Toss cornhole tournament on Saturday, April 18.
  • The organization also has an upcoming Mother's Day event on Friday, May 1.

The players

Missy Bennett

The founder of the nonprofit Operation Pretty Things, which provides support services for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

Operation Pretty Things

A nonprofit organization that offers free hair, makeup, and clothing services to help victims of sexual assault and domestic violence feel empowered when attending court proceedings, as well as emotional support throughout the legal process.

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What they’re saying

“'The statistic used to be one in three women are victims of domestic violence, but as of a survey done last year, it's up to 41%. Wilmington is no exception.'”

— Missy Bennett, Founder, Operation Pretty Things

“'51% of sexual assault cases are actually intimate partner relationships, and about 49% is acquaintances. That doesn't leave a lot of room for strangers.'”

— Missy Bennett, Founder, Operation Pretty Things

“'There's always hope. I know that for a lot of women, that seems like an impossible thing to believe, but I promise there's always hope and always help. This is a real problem, a real epidemic people need to be aware of.'”

— Missy Bennett, Founder, Operation Pretty Things

What’s next

Operation Pretty Things is holding its third annual Boss of the Toss cornhole tournament on Saturday, April 18 and a Mother's Day event on Friday, May 1. Victims of domestic violence can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or find county-specific resources through the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

The takeaway

Bennett's nonprofit is providing a critical service in Wilmington and across North Carolina by supporting victims of sexual assault and domestic violence through every step of the legal process and spreading awareness about these pervasive issues. Her organization's work highlights the need for more resources and support for victims, as the statistics on these crimes continue to rise alarmingly.