This year, the Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault (WCASA) proudly celebrates 40 years of service, advocacy, and commitment to survivors and communities across the state. Since its founding in 1985, WCASA has stood as a unifying voice for change, supporting Wisconsin’s community-based sexual assault service providers and collaborating with countless advocates, allies, and partners to build a Wisconsin free from sexual violence.
Over the past four decades, WCASA has grown into a trusted statewide leader, representing and supporting 80 member programs that provide direct services to survivors and their families. Through training, technical assistance, public awareness campaigns, and legislative advocacy, WCASA ensures that local programs have the tools, resources, and support they need to deliver compassionate, survivor-centered services. From rural communities to urban centers, WCASA’s work strengthens the fabric of a statewide network committed to survivor healing and community safety.
While WCASA’s strategies have evolved with the changing needs of survivors and communities, our mission and vision remain constant: to create social change to end sexual violence. We envision a world without violence, oppression, or racism, a world where all people honor bodily autonomy, dignity, and justice. We know that lasting change requires more than responding to harm; it requires addressing root causes, investing in prevention, and advancing equity. WCASA has been at the forefront of these efforts, from developing culturally responsive resources to leading statewide prevention initiatives that engage schools, workplaces, and communities in creating environments where all people can thrive.
Today, however, we face urgent and unprecedented challenges. Nationwide funding cuts threaten the stability of sexual assault services, impacting both WCASA and our member programs at a time when demand for support remains high. In addition, executive orders and policy decisions by the current administration undermine the rights and safety of the most marginalized survivors, striking at the core of our mission. These attacks come during a period when survivors urgently need support, healing, and systemic change. Yet despite shrinking resources and growing threats, WCASA and our partners remain unwavering: we will continue to organize, raise our voices, and fight for all survivors.
We are also always looking to partner with state and local individuals and programs who are engaged in sexual violence work. Collaboration is the heart of our movement, and together we can continue to strengthen prevention, advocacy, and support services across Wisconsin and our nation.
There are many ways our communities can support this work. Show up for survivors by believing them, amplifying their voices, and challenging harmful attitudes that allow violence to persist. They can support WCASA and local programs by volunteering, donating, attending events, or advocating for sustained funding at the state and federal levels. Every action, big or small, helps create a safer and more supportive Wisconsin.
Our 40th Anniversary is more than a milestone; it is a testament to the resilience of survivors who have spoken out, the dedication of advocates who have walked alongside them, and the collective power of communities that refuse to be silent in the face of violence. It is also a call to action. Sexual violence remains a pervasive issue that demands courage, commitment, and solidarity from all of us.
As part of our anniversary celebration, WCASA is hosting a special online auction featuring incredible items such as vacations, tickets and passes, wine and brewery experiences, and hosted events. Proceeds will directly support our mission and help sustain critical services for survivors.
As we look ahead to the next 40 years, WCASA is as steadfast as ever in our vision of a safer, healthier Wisconsin. We invite community partners, allies, and supporters to join us in celebrating this milestone, reflecting on the progress we have made, and shaping the future together. You can be part of this movement by honoring the history we have built collectively and taking action today. Celebrate with us at our 40th Anniversary Open House on Oct. 17 from 4p-6p (2801 W. Beltline Hwy #202), explore and bid in our statewide Online Auction 40th Anniversary Sponsor & Auction Items, items support WCASA through sponsorships, or make a contribution directly via Venmo (@WCASA). Every gift strengthens survivor-centered services and our shared vision of a Wisconsin free from sexual violence.
If you or someone you know is interested in getting involved, I invite you to consider becoming a partner, member agency, intern, or volunteer. You can also contact me to bring training and facilitation to your school, workplace, or community. Together, we can continue building a stronger and more compassionate Wisconsin.
