Submitted by Rebuilding Hope
Rebuilding Hope, the sexual assault center for Pierce and Kitsap counties announces the purchase of their first-ever owned building located at 723 MLK in the Hilltop Neighborhood. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the agency’s mission to provide healing and support for individuals impacted by sexual violence.
A New Chapter for Rebuilding Hope
For over 50 years, Rebuilding Hope has operated out of various leased spaces, most recently in the Dome District, where staff and resources have outgrown their cramped offices. Recognizing the urgent need for more space, Executive Director Carlyn Sampson initiated a search for a new location in January 2024. Collaborating with the agency’s Board of Directors, a Facilities Task Force was formed to identify a suitable space that meets the agency’s needs.
The Hilltop Neighborhood emerged as the perfect location due to its proximity to the recently expanded Link light rail line, key bus lines, multiple hospitals, city and county legal buildings, and neighboring social services. With the new building, Rebuilding Hope gains full autonomy, providing increased privacy and confidentiality for their clients.
Community and Partner Support
Crux Commercial Partners played a crucial role in making this purchase possible by providing pro bono support to secure a competitive financing solution. Harrison Laird and John Bauder at Lee & Associates Commercial Real Estate Services were also critical partners in the process. Sampson stated, “We are so fortunate to have had guidance from industry leaders with Crux, Harrison and John, all of whom supported us through this major milestone in the agency’s history.” On May 16, 2024, Sampson signed the deed to the building, marking a new era for Rebuilding Hope.
The building is currently occupied by tenants who will continue to operate through the summer. In the fall, preparations will begin to transform the space into a welcoming and accessible environment, with plans to open doors to clients in early 2025. Significant upgrades and repairs, including a new HVAC system estimated at $35,000, are necessary to realize this vision.
“We’re thrilled to have found our new headquarters in Hilltop,” stated Sampson, “…but we will undoubtedly need the support of our community and friends to help us achieve our vision of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all.” Rebuilding Hope plans to launch a capital campaign in the coming months to support this project.
The Impact of Sexual Assault Services
The CDC estimates that over half of women and almost one in three men have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes. Marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, are disproportionately affected, facing nearly four times the risk of violent victimization compared to non-LGBTQ+ individuals.
Rebuilding Hope provides healing services to all individuals impacted by sexual violence, regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, disability, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, income, veteran status, marital status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
About Rebuilding Hope
Founded by a group of young female students in 1972, Rebuilding Hope is rumored to be the first and longest continuously operating sexual assault center in Washington State. As the only state-accredited sexual assault program serving Pierce and Kitsap counties, the agency has responded to the region’s sexual assault victims’ needs for over 50 years.
In January of this year, Rebuilding Hope expanded its services into neighboring Kitsap County, opening a satellite office in Bremerton. The agency offers a wide range of programs, including Therapy, Advocacy, Education, and the Sex Trafficking and Exploitation Program (STEP), providing holistic support aimed at healing and preventing sexual assault and abuse.