Safelight Inc.
Safelight Inc. is a nonprofit organization serving Henderson County, North Carolina, offering trauma-informed services and emergency shelter to survivors of interpersonal violence since 1984.
AUDIENCE: 300+ signature and prospective donors
LOCATION: Flatrock, North Carolina
CHALLENGE: Safelight aimed to inspire donors and raise critical funding to sustain 24/7 emergency shelter, hotline services, and support programs for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
CARA BROOKINS’ SOLUTION:
15-minute keynote: “Rise & Resilience: A True Story”
Delivered message that reinforced Safelight’s mission through personal narrative
Aligned presentation with donor priorities to connect emotionally and activate giving
Participated in pre-event AV check and coordination with Lauren Wilkie
Shattered fundraising records with over a million dollars in donations in a single night
Coordinated through Keppler Speakers Bureau
Safelight, Inc., the leading provider of survivor support services in Henderson County, North Carolina, hosted its annual signature fundraising event at Blue Ridge Community College. With more than 300 donors and prospective supporters in attendance, the evening was focused on sustaining essential programs that offer safety and healing for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
The organization needed a keynote speaker who could connect deeply with the room, evoke empathy, and help turn inspiration into action. Cara Brookins was selected to deliver a concise yet powerful 15-minute keynote, “Rise & Resilience: A True Story.”
Cara’s presentation focused on the personal strength it takes to break cycles of harm and rebuild a life, mirroring the very mission of Safelight. In just 15 minutes, she illustrated the lasting impact of compassion, support systems, and the courage to rise again after trauma, driving home the tangible results of donor contributions.
Met onsite by Lauren Wilkie and coordinated through Keppler Speakers Bureau, Cara worked closely with the team to ensure a smooth AV check and seamless delivery. Her story left the room energized and emotionally connected to the cause, reinforcing why supporting organizations like Safelight is not just charitable, but transformational.
