NewStory Center featured in the Rutland Herald

Coming Together for Change: NewStory Center Hosts Panel for Sexual Assault Awareness Month

At NewStory Center, our mission has always been rooted in a simple but profound belief: everyone deserves a life free from violence. On April 17th, we brought that mission to life through a powerful community panel held at The Hub CoWorks in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

The morning gathering—featured in the Rutland Herald —brought together a diverse group of community partners who work on the front lines of prevention, response, and healing in Rutland County. Moderated by our Executive Director Avaloy Lanning, the panel included:

• Jessica Ellis, Program Director at NewStory Center

• Jennifer Firpo, Law Enforcement Certification and Training Coordinator

• Jackie Langsett, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner

• Ian Sullivan, Rutland County State’s Attorney

• Daron Raleigh, Deputy State’s Attorney

• Cmdr. Matthew Prouty, Rutland City Police Department

These experts offered valuable insights into the challenges and realities of addressing sexual violence in our community—from common legal misconceptions to the long and often retraumatizing court process.

One theme echoed throughout the conversation: consent must be affirmative, voluntary, and unambiguous. As State’s Attorney Ian Sullivan put it, “Only yes means yes.” It’s a shift in mindset and legal language that reflects a deeper understanding of trauma and the need for survivor-centered approaches.

Panelists also spoke candidly about the difficult road survivors face—navigating trauma, evidence collection, and lengthy trials. Program Director Jessica Ellis reminded us of the importance of allowing survivors to guide their own recovery journey. “Healing doesn’t look the same for everyone,” she shared, “and that’s why choice and agency are so essential.”

Despite the challenges, hope was a resounding note to end on. Whether it’s through progress in state legislation, better trauma-informed practices, or the unwavering dedication of those who work to support survivors every day, our community continues to move forward.

At NewStory Center, we know this work is not easy—but it’s necessary. And we are proud to stand with our partners, survivors, and allies in the ongoing effort to end domestic and sexual violence in Rutland County.

We are grateful to The Rutland Herald for covering this event and to everyone who joined us in-person or in spirit. Together, we can rewrite the story. Check out their article here!

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To learn more about our work or to get involved, visit nscvt.org. Your support helps us continue to provide critical resources, education, and hope.