The Sexual Assault Recovery & Prevention (SARP) Center of SLO County was recently awarded a $2,500 grant by the Central Coast Funds for Children. This grant will support the center’s prevention education services; specifically the MyStrength and HerPower programs. These groups focus on violence prevention, healthy behaviors and posi tive bystander intervention for teens between the ages of 12 and 18 years. They meet weekly for several months, allowing for real changes in attitudes and beliefs, which lead to long-term behavior changes.

Central Coast Funds for Children is a nonprofit established in 1993 to benefit children in need in SLO County. It has no paid staff — all activities are run by volunteers, and less than 6 percent of the income raised goes to expenses. Funds are raised through individual and business donations, as well as special fundraising events such as its an nual Soup Supper. These funds are distributed to organizations through a grant process.

The Sexual Assault Recovery & Prevention Center has received funding from Central Coast Funds for Children for seven years. Its support is invaluable in maintaining our ongoing programs serving children in the community. We thank CCFC for its commitment to children and continued support of local programs.