Now is a time for reflection, community, and action.
We are moving toward an important time of the year and an opportunity to make a profound impact by supporting survivors of sexual violence.
Recent cuts in federal funding from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) have forced organizations across Colorado to scale back services, end programs, or downsize staff.
Your donations can help sustain vital survivor support services, but we need more than individual gifts. We need the collective energy to create lasting, statewide change.
Vote YES on Prop KK on November 4th
Learn more about Prop KKSupport Survivor Services
Let’s celebrate the power of coming together.
The way we show up now—for survivors and for each other—will ensure a safer, brighter future for all of us.
Sincerely,
The Blue Bench Team
2025 RISE Artist Submission Now Open!
RISE features art made by survivors of sexual violence throughout April in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM). RISE showcases the voices, stories, and healing journeys of survivors of sexual violence.
RISE 2025 Info:
Submission deadline: February 1, 2025
Exhibition run: Tuesday, April 1st through Wednesday, April 30th
Location: M&D Artistries, 773 Santa Fe Dr., Denver, CO 80204
In light of the recent allegations of sexual violence within the arts community,
The Blue Bench and the Art District on Santa Fe (ADSF) want to acknowledge the bravery of those who have come forward with their experiences. We want to make it clear: We believe you, and survivors are always our priority. We do not condone or support individuals or organizations that commit and/or uphold sexual violence, assault, and/or harassment.
Colorado ballot measure could fund victims services as federal funds dwindle
"We got our VOCA notification, and when we look at year over year, we're losing about 45% of our funding from [fiscal year] 2024 to 2025," said Megan Carvajal, executive director of The Blue Bench
"It's extremely tough," she said. "Like most organizations that receive VOCA funding, we're going to make some hard decisions and maybe reduce services in order to just continue offering something to the community."
The Blue Bench SHIELD program combats workplace sexual harassment in Colorado
Kaylyn Fern, director of Philanthropy at The Blue Bench, emphasized the significance of the program: “Denver is a city that strongly values social responsibility. With the high prevalence of sexual violence and harassment, our SHIELD certification enables businesses to demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe work environment and supporting survivors..."
Full DBJ Article More Articles Featuring The Blue Bench
Bars across Denver have the power to help create a safer culture.
Would you like your favorite bar to help us create safer, more supportive spaces for everyone? Let us know who and we'll work to partner with them for Change on Tap 2024!
- Open positions:
- On-Call Advocate, PT
- Case Manager
- Interim Executive Director
"If there’s one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s the power of using your voice.”
- Michelle Obama
