When I first imagined Joyful Heart ten years ago, I could not have foreseen the impact we would have a decade later. I am overwhelmed with joy—and gratitude and love—for the many bright lights who make our work possible.

Joyful Heart began as a dream of helping sexual assault survivors heal and reclaim a sense of hope, possibility and joy in their lives. We have evolved into a national organization that is paving the way for integrating holistic approaches in treating trauma, transforming the way people think about, talk about and behave around the issues of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse, and advancing public policies to ensure justice for survivors.

During our 10th anniversary year, we've witnessed and been a part of monumental steps towards change. I am deeply grateful for the courageous people who turned towards these issues with us. From the 22 current and former NFL players who stepped forward to speak out in the groundbreaking NO MORE PSA campaign, to Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance's commitment of $35 million—and now the passage of a federal budget with $41 million—to help end the national rape kit backlog, to Viacom, the Vice President, to the survivors who are helping us shape the future of our retreat programs, and of course, to you. What we have accomplished together fills me with pride and awe.

We can bring this violence to an end together—which means that each one of us can make a difference. During this season of giving and joy, please join us by making a gift to continue the momentum of change in 2015 and beyond.

I am inspired by the pace, impact and reach of the change we are creating. It is our unyielding belief that anything is possible. Thank you for standing with us. 

With gratitude and brightest joy,

Mariska Hargitay
Founder & President
Joyful Heart Foundation