Episode 6: We Believe You

Welcome to Episode 6 of The Official WinCity Voices Podcast. On today's episode, host Lashana Harney is joined by Latisha Jackson, Executive Director of Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center, and Keisha Morgan, the Lead Advocate at Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center. 

Latisha and Keisha shed light on the organization's mission to support survivors and create safer local communities like Clark County. We dive deeper into the challenges survivors face, the role of schools and institutions in promoting awareness, and the evolving societal attitudes towards sexual violence.

And together, we explore actionable steps that we can take to support survivors, amplify the message of sexual assault awareness, and contribute to creating a safer community for everyone. 

Content Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics, including sexual assault, rape, and other forms of sexual violence. Listener discretion is advised.

About the Guests:
Latisha Jackson is the Executive Director of the Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center of the Bluegrass region. She comes to Ampersand as an experienced Certified Addictions Professional with over 15 years of experience in substance use disorder and mental health treatment, case management, and over 7 years of experience in program development and operations management. Latisha has robust knowledge and experience working with human trafficking victims, youth and adolescents in foster care, and various at-risk populations within her social work career. She possesses a master's degree in Social Work from the University of Louisville and a Specialization in Alcohol Drug Counseling. Latisha is currently working toward her licensure as a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor. She is also a certified trauma-informed trainer and CPI certified. Latisha has always had a strong passion for social justice, empowering others to recognize their maximum potential while assisting them with breaking down barriers. She believes you should look through each person's eyes from a holistic approach to help those jump through the obstacles that have been hindering them from moving forward in life and even overcoming their traumas.  She states, “To have the opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact in the life of survivors and others we work with brings joy to my heart.”

Keisha Morgan is the Lead Advocate at Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center of the Bluegrass. Born and raised in central Appalachia, she saw the need for compassionate and creative care for survivors of trauma, and that is what drives her to do the work now. As an advocate for survivors of sexual assault, Keisha has seen how important it is for survivors to be able to explore all aspects of themselves in healing and strives to provide the space for that.

The Voices of Winchester Podcast brings your stories, our stories, & all of the voices of Winchester to your ears.

If you like what you hear, be sure to follow us on social media @wincityvoices & check out more content like this at wincityvoices.org.

Want to tell your story on the podcast? Email Lashana at lashanaharney@gmail.com or Pete at peteky1961@gmail.com.

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WCV's Mission:
WinCity Voices believes storytelling in all of its forms — the visual, the written, the spoken — is vital to meaningful change. Our storytellers provoke thought, promote happenings, and provide entertainment. Our mission is to celebrate creativity, foster informed conversation, and inspire the people of Winchester and beyond to build connection and community.