Story and Photography by Eric Lusk

Rutherford County’s Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center recently gathered at Copper Ridge Events Venue on Betty Ford Road for their annual Hope & Hops. With beer tastings provided by multiple local breweries, guests moved from vendor to vendor, chatting about their favorites and making new friends. Moe’s Southwest Grill provided tacos with all the trimmings. Ericka Downing, Executive Director, with her staff and board, did a fantastic job - enabling guests to have fun night out while supporting victims, preventing violence and empowering survivors.

The Domestic Violence Program began locally in 1986 with a one-room office. In 1988, two safe houses and counseling services were added. In 2003, they built a safe shelter, and in 2007 merged with Sexual Assault Services.

For more information, visit www.dvsacenter.org.