Thursday, October 12, 2006

Former Miss America to talk about sexual abuse

By Jennifer Feals

jfeals@seacoastonline.com

PORTSMOUTH -- Sexual Assault Support Services and A Safe Place are recognizing individuals working in the community against sexual assault and domestic violence during their second annual Porch Light Award Luncheon.

Sponsored by the two organizations, the luncheon will take place Thursday at the Portsmouth Sheraton Harborside.

The luncheon's keynote speaker, Marilyn Van Derbur, speaks nationwide on the topic of sexual-abuse prevention and recovery as a former Miss America, author of "Miss America by Day" and incest survivor. Van Derber said her goal is to raise awareness and education about sexual violence, while striving to help sexual assault and incest survivors forge ahead through their experiences.

"My whole life is geared toward this mission; this is why I'm here," she said.

PHOTO
Marilyn Van Derbur
Former Miss America, incest survivor

During The Porch Light Luncheon, Van Derbur will talk about her experience as an incest survivor, raising awareness and education.

"It is critically important to educate our society about what happens when there is no prevention and intervention. I validate the work of SASS and A Safe Place, giving them an insight to what happens to a person when there is no prevention," Van Derbur said.

The Porch Light Award is presented during the luncheon to an individual who has demonstrated a significant contribution in improving the lives of men, women and children through dedication, passion and commitment to building a safer, healthier society.

The recipient of this year's Porch Light Award is Moharimet Elementary School Principal Dennis Harrington.

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