Page 66 - August 2015 Life In Naples Magazine
P. 66
heart to heart
Heartfelt Help
Fby Karen Coney Coplin Dr. Allen Weiss, CEO & President,
or survivors of some of the most unimaginable crimes and NCH Healthcare System,says:“Immediate,
other traumas, there is a place to turn for much needed compassionate health care is important
support, whether in the recovery or the judicial process. for victims of sexual assault and human
Project HELP is a rape and crisis center which has assisted victims trafficking. We work closely with Project
of sexual assault, sudden loss including through suicide and violent HELP to assist victims after they have a
crimes, and human trafficking in Naples and Collier County. Next forensic exam at the Project HELP offices
year, Project HELP will mark its 30th year of service. and may require other medical treatment.
We also refer victims to Project HELP for
In any given year, Project HELP is aiding nearly 5000 clients free counseling, court advocacy and other
with victim advocacy, forensic examination, and guidance with law assistance. Together, we help victims begin
enforcement, the court and other systems. the healing journey.”
Why is Project HELP a crucial part of our community? Eileen This organization is located at 3123 Terrace Avenue, near Airport
Connolly-Keesler, President & CEO, Community Foundation Road and Davis Blvd. How can you lend a hand, ear, or other
of Collier County states: “More attention is being paid today support to Project HELP? There are many ways to play a valuable
to the issues of sexual assault and human trafficking, which are role in bettering services to their clients and in so doing, our greater
violent crimes perpetrated against the most vulnerable among us. community. Of course, financial contributions are tax deductible.
When we have children as young as 12 being sold as sex slaves in
Southwest Florida, the community needs to support prevention If you wanted more “hands on” involvement, volunteers can be
and treatment programs.” trained to answer the hotline; and, you could assist the committee
for or attend the upcoming 19th annual Chocolate Extravaganza
Many times, a victim initiates contact with the organization on on November 5, 2015, from 6 - 9 p.m., which will be held at the
a confidential, and multi-lingual hotline which operates at all hours Design Studio by Raymond at 901 1st Ave. N. This popular event
of the day and night: 239.262.7227. As Sheriff Kevin Rambosk will feature light bites, wine, and an abundance of all kinds of
notes, a call to Project HELP is: “often the first call a victim makes, chocolates donated by local chefs restaurants and bakers. Tickets
so the 24/7 hotline staffed by trained counselors is a tremendous are $95 and save the date - plan ahead - reserve your ticket. Contact
community service.” Project HELP online at projecthelpnaples.org or by phone at
239.649.1404. You can find out more information by following
Project Help’s mission is to provide a message of hope, healing, this group at Facebook.com/ProjectHelpNaples. A silent and live
and empowerment to its clients. Professional counselors and client auction will also be part of this special signature event. Sponsorships
advocates work together with other dedicated staff and Board are available on a variety of levels and will entitle the sponsor to
of Directors, and numerous committed community volunteers. event tickets among other benefits.
Project HELP strives to “always better” their services to the greater
Naples community. Recently, a Project Help client shared her story of healing: “Project
HELP gave me my life back and reminded me of the love, success
Although many individuals will contact Project HELP and joy in my life. I hope that every survivor gets the chance to feel
directly, clients can be referred by numerous sources including that way at some point during their journey towards strength....I can
law enforcement, as well as state agencies and medical entities, in finally go out with friends and not be scared. I can finally look myself
addition to other not-for-profits such as the Shelter for Abused in the mirror and see love and strength. I can finally see the woman I
Women and Children, to name only some who come into first was before I experienced this horrible tragedy.”
contact with Project HELP clients.
There are many ways to give other survivors the same chance, and
Once an individual is connected with Project Help, a thorough that’s by helping Project HELP.
and multi-faceted array of services begins. Counselors will work
with clients one-on-one, and group and family counseling is offered Email Karen at NaplesKCC@gmail.com to suggest a local organization
as well. Connection with community social service providers, for coverage in a future issue.
guidance through the victims’ compensation claims process, and
on-site crisis intervention are other services which might aid a
Project HELP client.
66 Life in Naples | August • September • October 2015
