Signs of HOPE Expands Awareness with Party Smart Campaign
In an effort to promote safety during the bustling Las Vegas nightlife, Signs of HOPE (Healing, Options, Prevention, and Education) has announced the expansion of its “Party Smart” initiative. This nonprofit organization has been dedicated to supporting individuals affected by sexual violence and exploitation in the community for over five decades.
Distribution of Informational Stickers
The organization will provide free stickers to local bars, nightclubs, dayclubs, and pool venues. These stickers, designed for display in restroom areas, communicate essential messages from the Party Smart campaign, urging individuals to Arrive Together, Stick Together, and Leave Together when engaging in nightlife activities.
Each sticker also features contact information for Signs of HOPE’s 24/7 crisis hotlines: the Sexual Assault Hotline at 702-366-1640, and the Human Trafficking Hotline at 702-936-4004.
Significance of Launch Timing
April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, making it an appropriate time for the sticker program launch. The timing coincides with the rising influx of visitors to local dayclubs and nightclubs as the pool season begins. Kim Small, CEO of Signs of HOPE, emphasized the importance of the Party Smart pledge in preventing potential sexual violence incidents.
“Signs of HOPE asks everyone to take the Party Smart pledge to Arrive Together, Stick Together, and Leave Together before heading out for the pool, the club or really any party venue. We know these simple steps help prevent sexual violence situations from occurring, as isolating someone from their group is a common tactic used by predators,” said Small.
Community Participation
Signs of HOPE is reaching out to the hospitality industry in Southern Nevada, encouraging venues to participate in the Party Smart program. TAO Group Hospitality and Palms Casino Resort have already embraced the initiative.
“We are offering these stickers free of charge to any hospitality venue in Southern Nevada, and we encourage these businesses to partner with us in our Party Smart campaign to help spread awareness and help prevent sexual violence situations from occurring,” Small added.
Data Highlighting Need for Awareness
The Party Smart Campaign is driven by alarming statistics concerning sexual violence:
- Women aged 18 to 35 are at the highest risk of experiencing sexual violence.
- Approximately 20% of individuals assisted by Signs of HOPE at UMC Hospital report incidents occurring at parties or alcohol-serving establishments.
- Over 80% of sexual assaults involve alcohol, which is often used by predators to exert control.
About Signs of HOPE
Founded in 1974 originally as the Community Action Against Rape (CAAR), Signs of HOPE has evolved into a vital resource for sexual violence survivors, providing advocacy, crisis hotlines, and long-term counseling services. The organization’s commitment extends beyond immediate support to include education and outreach aimed at preventing future incidents of sexual violence and exploitation, particularly among youth. For further details, visit sohlv.org.