RACC Fall 2024 Newsletter

Page 1


A Season of Hope

Every day, survivors of abuse walk through the doors of the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center (RACC), carrying the weight of their experiences. Their stories are diverse but share common threads—control, fear, and violence that have left physical and emotional scars.

Many victim survivors face isolation as abusers systematically cut them off from friends and family, belittle them, and control their every move. For some, the abuse escalates to life-threatening situations where weapons are used to intimidate and harm. Despite these challenges, they show remarkable courage. Some leave dangerous situations, while others take steps to create safety plans that work best for their families.

At RACC, we believe no one should have to live in fear or isolation. That’s why we are here—to provide the support, advocacy, and resources victim survivors need to regain their safety, rebuild their lives, and begin their healing journey.

Violence knows no boundaries. It affects people of every gender, age, and socioeconomic status. What unites all survivors is the need for safety, compassion, and a chance to start anew.

Thanks to your generosity, RACC offers life-changing services—24/7 crisis intervention, counseling, safety planning, and legal advocacy—completely free of charge. Survivors already bear the weight of their trauma; they should never have to face financial barriers to receiving help.

As the year draws to a close, we ask you to join us in restoring hope to victim survivors in our community. Your year-end gift ensures every person who turns to RACC finds the care and support they need to reclaim their life.

Together, we can create a future where safety and healing are within reach for everyone.

Donate today. Because hope begins with you.

HARVEST MOONfling

The sold-out 39th annual Harvest Moon Fling, held at the Armory Event Center, was an unforgettable evening of generosity and community. Guests enjoyed gourmet food, complimentary wine and spirits, and exciting live and silent auctions, all while coming together to support RACC’s mission.

The night’s most powerful moments came from the heartfelt stories shared by victim survivors, inspiring donors in the room to open their hearts. We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, speakers, volunteers, and everyone who made this incredible event possible.

THANK YOU SPONSORS

Help Spread Holiday Cheer

This holiday season, you can make an impact on families supported by the Rape and

Each act of generosity helps families find joy during the holidays. Abuse Crisis Center (RACC). There are several meaningful ways to spread joy.

Give a monetary donation which provide crucial support for our programs and services

Donate gift cards to empower parents to shop for their children

Purchase items from our Amazon wish list to meet specific needs

Amazon Wish List

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1 64ZHV09R6ROJ/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1

FM Area Foundation Caring Catalog December 2-13, 2024

At RACC, reaching out isn’t where a survivor’s story ends—it’s where a new chapter begins. Through personalized safety planning, emotional care, and advocacy, we help victim survivors navigate their unique journeys, whether they’re rebuilding relationships, creating safer environments, or starting fresh.

Thanks to the West Fargo Exchange Club, every donation to the Caring Catalog up to $10,000 will be matched, doubling your impact and bringing even more hope and healing to those in need.

Your generosity ensures survivors have access to the tools and support they need to reclaim their lives. From $35, which helps provide critical resources, to $1,000, which sustains life-changing advocacy and long-term healing, every gift writes the first pages of a survivor’s new story. Together, we can make a lasting difference—providing safety, stability, and hope to those who need it most. Donate today and help us meet the match!

Multiple your impact thanks to the West Fargo Exchange Club. Donate December 2-13, 2024

https://fargo.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/grant?grant_id=38322

Charitable Giving Tax Credit

North Dakota taxpayers may be eligible to receive a state tax credit for contributions of $5,000 or more to a qualified North Dakota endowment. The tax credit is 40% of the charitable

deduction allowed by the IRS up to a maximum of $10,000 per year per taxpayer or $20,000 per year per couple filing jointly.

RACC has partnered with the FM Area Foundation to utilize endowments to support our work.

Estimated tax savings with gifts to qualified endowments

Federal Tax Savings (assuming 32% bracket)

Make a Meaningful

Impact

with Your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)

If you’re 72 or older, you’re likely familiar with the dilemma of your RMD—the mandatory taxable withdrawal from your traditional IRA. But did you know you can use your RMD to make a real difference in the lives of victim survivors at RACC?

One powerful option is to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). If you’re 70.5 or older, you can contribute up to $100,000 directly from your IRA to a qualified 501(c) (3) charity, like RACC, without the distribution being counted as taxable income. This taxefficient strategy allows you to meet your RMD requirement while supporting a cause that makes a tangible impact.

A QCD is a simple, effective way to fulfill your RMD and further your charitable giving goals — all while reducing your tax liability. By choosing to give in this way, you not only satisfy your financial obligation, but you also help provide critical services and support for those in need.

Consider making a charitable gift from your IRA today and join us in helping to transform lives.

Do not rely on this information without consulting a qualified tax professional for advice tailored to your specific situation. We recommend seeking expert guidance for any personal or business tax concerns.

Prevention Education- Addressing the Root of Violence

The Rape and Abuse Crisis Center’s (RACC) Prevention Education Team works to prevent violence by providing education on healthy relationships, personal safety, and community accountability. As the only crisis center in the Fargo-Moorhead area, RACC is the primary resource for addressing sexual assault, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse.

In 2023, RACC’s team delivered 1,045 presentations to schools, businesses, and the public. Beyond education, they lead initiatives to develop strategies for preventing violence, fostering safe and supportive environments through collaboration.

RACC’s prevention efforts tackle the root causes of violence, helping build a future where safety and healing are possible for all. Together, we can end the cycle of violence.

Ialwaysfeelsafeand welcome here. The staff is greatandmakemefeelheard andvalidatemyfeelings.

-personservedin advocacy/counseling

My counselor has created such a safe space for me to talk and has been a genuine source of support/help for me during a time I never, ever thought I'd have to go through.

-person served in counseling

Voices of the people we serve

Thank you for allowing therapists to do the work with me as a client, its saved my life from killing myself. please don't change and know you guys help in ways you do not know.

-person served in counseling

RainbowBridgeisnotonlyhelping learningmychildbutalsomyselfwith tobecomfortablewiththe thecurrentsituationandlettinggoof uncomfortablesituationfrom thepast. -personservedat RainbowBridge

I learned a lot! I learned a bunch aboutmyselfandhowIwasraised. AccountabilityAndmostofitwaswrong.isthenumberone thinginthisclassIfeel.Realizing whatyouhavedoneandbeingwilling tomakethechangeiskey. -personservedinoffender educationprogram

Continues to be one of the best decisions of my life to come here.

-person served in advocacy/counseling

Healing The Hurt

The annual RACC Healing the Hurt Award, honors those who go above and beyond in the fight to end violence, recognizing individuals and businesses that make a profound impact on the lives of victim survivors.

Kenny Ellis, Your Friend Steam Cleaning

This year, RACC presented the Healing the Hurt Award in the Business Category to Kenny Ellis, owner of Your Friend Kenny Steam Cleaning. Kenny’s extraordinary commitment to RACC has transformed not only our space but also the experience of our staff and clients. When called for a small cleaning task, Kenny went far beyond expectations, refreshing our hallways and lobby at no cost. His generous spirit and expert touch have revitalized our building, creating a clean, welcoming

environment that embodies care and respect for those we serve. Thank you, Kenny, for making RACC brighter and better for everyone!

Heidi Holland

In the Individual Category, we honor Heidi Holland, affectionately known as "The Bed Fairy." Heidi’s tireless dedication ensures that victim survivors in our care have access to new, safe beds and bedding during their most vulnerable moments. For survivors, a bed is more than a necessity—it’s a symbol of safety and hope. Heidi’s generosity has provided countless individuals with the comfort and stability needed to begin their healing journeys. Her unwavering compassion exemplifies the heart of RACC’s mission.

Congratulations to these incredible champions of healing and hope!

Handbags

Designer Purse

Handbags for Healing

January 25, 2025 | 11 am The Four & Four

Join us for a morning of fun, compassion, and purpose. Let's make a significant impact on the lives of those in need, turning the game of bingo into a game-changer for individuals seeking safety, healing, and hope. Your presence matters, and your support can make a world of difference.

Individual, Reserved Groups, and VIP Tables on sale now!

https://raccfm.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/ HandbagsforHealingDesignerPurseBingo2025

December 2-13

FM Area Foundation Caring Caralog

January 25, 2025 Handbags for Healing Designer Purse Bingo

February 13, 2025 Giving Hearts Day

April 24, 2025 Fabulous Fashion & Friends

Support RACC This Holiday Season

Donate Online: Contribute easily at www.raccfm.com/donate or scan the QR code below. Purchase Essential Items directly from our Amazon Wish List (details inside) or organize a supply drive at your workplace, school, or community group. Make an Endowment Contribution: Take advantage of the ND Charitable Tax Credit by contributing to our endowment (details inside).

Consider directing your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) to support our cause (details inside). If you’re a Thrivent member, designate your Choice Dollars to our organization.

Double Your Impact: Check with your employer about matching gift programs to maximize your donation.

317 8th St N Fargo, ND 58102

Give Online

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID FARGO, ND PERMIT #1369

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.