Start by Believing Needs Your Support!

As many of you know, Start by Believing is a public awareness campaign created by End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI) and designed to change the way we respond to rape and sexual assault in our communities.

“My name is Jimmy. I am a Deputy Sheriff with the Hardeman County Sheriff's Department in Texas. When someone tells me they were raped or sexually assaulted, I Start by Believing.”

This program is critical and needs your support. You can donate through EVAWI’s Combined Federal Campaign Designation # 11400. The Campaign Locator will assist you in identifying the CFC program in your area.  More information is available on the CFC page at our website.

In case you are unfamiliar with the CFC, it is the U.S. federal government’s workplace giving program. The CFC presents an opportunity for federal employees and military personnel to support the causes they believe in. If you’re not a federal employee or military member, but still want to give to Start by Believing, you can spread the word to any friends, family members, or colleagues who are.  You can also support the campaign by sharing this blog within your own social media network.

Your generous donation, however large or small, will allow us to continue to raise awareness of the realistic dynamics of sexual assault so victims are not blamed and perpetrators are held accountable.

·         With $25 we can ship 500 bookmarks to spread the message of Start by Believing.

·         With $100, we can work with local community professionals and provide the materials they need to launch their own Start by Believing campaign.

·         With $500 we can ensure that our website will continue to offer a space for people to share their stories and make personal commitments to Start by Believing.

“My name is Lisa. I am an advocate for people with disabilities. When someone tells me they were raped or sexually assaulted, I Start by Believing.”

Thank You

With your support, we can work to change the way we respond to victims of rape and sexual assault, by informing the public, uniting allies and supporters, and improving our personal reactions. The goal is to change the world, and outcomes for victims, one response at a time.

Even if you are unable to make a financial contribution, you can support the campaign by spreading the word and engaging people in the difficult conversations that are required to create change. Thank you.