Story of Impact | Brave Step
Empowering adults impacted by sexual violence
“Other funders want to see something tried and true — Reemprise saw the dream we had and what we wanted to create.”
Crystal Emerick, Brave Step Founder & Executive Director
Game-changing Opportunity
Develop an evidence-based program for loved ones of survivors of sexual violence.
More than half of women and one-fourth of men are sexually violated in their lifetime. Loved ones are a crucial component of the journey to well-being for survivors but no programs exist to give them the knowledge, skills, and community they need to support the survivor or themselves.
Reemprise’s Role
After hearing the vision, Reemprise provided Brave Step an initial grant to more thoroughly research existing supports for loved ones and the feasibility of developing a program. After confirming that the gap existed and could feasibly be addressed, Reemprise worked with Brave Step over a series of grants to prototype, evaluate, and iterate.
Making the Difference
Reemprise understands that innovation requires partnership and flexibility. The timing, nature and even amount of grants adapted to the situation and iterative work, always focused on supporting Brave Step’s efforts to optimize outcomes and impact.
Measurable Impact
By Fall 2024, 54 loved ones had gone through the program. Initial data points to program effectiveness. But the larger story is best told by the participants:
“I am so happy that I attended this program. Now I can work on getting my faith back in humanity.”
“I was struggling with all aspects of life after this tragic event, but this has been very fulfilling.”
“The warm atmosphere and sincerity toward each other and the questions. The patience to allow each other to express feelings to deflate the balloon of pain.”
Sustained Performance
The impact of sexual violence is wide-sweeping and yet, across the care-giving spectrum, a program like Brave Step’s Loved Ones has never before been instituted. The strategic goal is to license, train, and equip mental health practitioners to employ the Brave Step’s innovative techniques. Proceeds from this initiative will permit Brave Step to further grow its staff, ensuring sustainability.