Operation Pretty Things hold annual One Gala at the Union Station

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A nonprofit that is partnered with the Harrelson Center hosted a gala in Wilmington Friday evening.  

Operation pretty things had their eighth annual One Gala.  

Since 2007, the nonprofit has been dedicated to helping and empowering victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.  

They started in New Hanover County but have now expanded to numerous states.  

The executive director of Operation Pretty Things Missy Bennett and guest speaker Michelle Shepherd tell us what it means to them to be part of this nonprofit.   

“To be able to help somebody else be brave and stand up for themselves it gives me more honor and joy and just you got to bring so much love and hope to people,” Shepherd said. 

“And keep the perspective that there is hope and there is help and you don’t have to do it alone. I think that means something,” Bennett said.  

About 25 years ago, Michelle Shepherd was a victim. She was brutally beaten, raped, and left for dead by her assailant. At the gala, the entire team who helped save Shepherd was honored. Including the recently retired District Attorney Ben David.

The gala is just one way to get involved but there are other ways. If you want to get involved in Operation Pretty Things you can access their website using this link: Operation Pretty Things