The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay's Empowerment program was developed by survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, abuse, and human trafficking to support the journey of recovery from trauma and celebrate their inherent resiliency.  The purpose of Empowerment Services is to provide healing experiences and opportunities that support the transformation of survivors.   

On a sunny Saturday morning in February, a group of survivors met with renowned singer/songwriter, Amy Carol Webb and members of the Crescendo Women's Chorus to take on an ambitious project called Lift Your Voice.  The goal of the project was to have the group develop lyrics and music that morning and then record an original song of survivor empowerment that afternoon.

Amy guided the group through a discussion to identify significant thoughts, words, and emotions that could be conveyed through the song.  In just a few hours, the group had pages of notes they used as inspiration to develop the final lyrics of the song.     

Then Amy pulled out microphones, mic stands, a computer, and a mixing board. In a matter of minutes, the Wilcox Room at the Crisis Center was transformed into a recording studio. She led the group through some vocal exercises to prep them, and then the recording session began.

The end result is an original song called Freedom. Each person that participated in Lift Your Voice received a CD of the song that day. You can listen to the song they created by clicking HERE.
 
Empowerment programs like Lift Your Voice provide opportunities for hope and a safe place for survivors to heal. Your financial support of the Crisis Center as a Sustainer or Circle of Caring member provides the resources that allow sexual assault survivors to develop a community of hope and empowerment.