Lonoke County Safe Haven
Lonoke County Safe Haven is a nonprofit domestic violence shelter in Central Arkansas
AUDIENCE: 350 community leaders, business owners, counselors, and physicians
LOCATION: Central Arkansas
CHALLENGE: Engaging donors and attendees while addressing the critical need for expanding resources and services to support victims of domestic violence.
CARA BROOKINS’ SOLUTION:
Delivered deeply resonant keynote for an audience engaged in trauma-informed care and community support
Brought her personal experience with survival and rebuilding into focus
Met one-on-one with attendees during an extended book signing
Lonoke County Safe Haven’s Annual Spring Banquet was more than just a fundraiser, it was a gathering of hope, healing, and community resolve. As a domestic violence shelter serving Central Arkansas, their mission demanded a speaker who could embody strength through adversity.
Cara Brookins was the perfect fit.
Having survived an abusive relationship and rebuilt her life from the foundation up—literally—Cara brought a story that paralleled the journeys of many supported by Safe Haven. Her 60-minute keynote wove personal narrative with a message of possibility, underscoring how courage and practical steps lead to healing.
Community members, including physicians, nonprofit leaders, and donors, responded with emotion and enthusiasm. Following the keynote, Cara remained on site for a lengthy book signing, engaging guests with compassion and warmth.
Her presence helped raise awareness and deepen the community’s investment in Safe Haven’s essential work, proving that rebuilding isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.
